News Center Maine reports:
Over 4,000 people in Maine do not have a place to stay but Maine has a plan to reduce it. By joining the nationwide Built For Zero movement, Maine hopes to significantly reduce homelessness in the next three years.
Built for Zero is a movement, a methodology, and proof of what is possible. Over 100 cities and counties have committed to measurably ending homelessness for entire populations. Using data, these communities have changed how local homeless response systems work and the impact they can achieve. Together, they are proving that we can build a future where homelessness is rare overall and brief when it occurs.
“Part of getting there is believing that it can be done. So, I think the team that’s working on this really knows that this is a proven strategy,” Scott Thistle, MaineHousing communications director, said.
Maine’s goal by June 30, 2025, is to reach a level of functional zero for the state’s homeless veteran population. By June 30, 2026, Maine’s goal is to reach functional zero statewide for chronic homelessness.
Maine’s program includes setting up nine separate hubs across the state. Jen Weatherbee, the Hub7 coordinator in Penquis, said the hub’s command team is piloting a program to help the team communicate more effectively.
“As well get an idea of who’s experiencing homelessness, being able to talk about them, connect them to resources, match them to resources,” Weatherbee said.