I thank Gillian Graham for her April 3 Portland Press Herald story, “Portland helped find housing for hundreds of people in 2025, city says.” It’s encouraging to read about an initiative uniting the city, state and nonprofit organizations. 

As a volunteer at a similar collaboration — to provide food to city residents — I have been struck by the same spirit of collaboration. Each day — rain or shine, hot or freezing — Preble Street staff bring a truckload of hot meals, fruit, beverages and hot coffee, available for anyone who wants it.

On some days, volunteers from Milestone Recovery, First Parish Portland or other organizations help with set-up and distribution. We also socialize with the guests, which I really enjoy. There’s always a city representative to assist as needed. Some days there’s a van for HIV screening or simple first aid treatments. The Portland Ambassadors (Portland Downtown employees who focus on making the area safer, cleaner and more welcoming) set up and take down the chairs and tables the guests use as they eat and socialize. The food (much of it donated) is wholesome and tasty and the staff and volunteers are friendly. I am continually impressed by the good cheer, courtesy and fortitude of the guests, many of whom are living on the street. 

Housing and food insecurity are huge, complicated problems. These initiatives strike me as innovative, flexible, effective and compassionate examples of what can be accomplished when organizations and individuals step up and work together. 

Susan Payne
Cape Elizabeth