In February 2025, Preble Street officially assumed operations of Hope House Shelter in Bangor! In that time, staff have helped an incredible 57 people move from the shelter into permanent housing and provided 268 individuals shelter and housing navigation services.
365 days/year, Hope House provides 56 people (68 when renovations are complete) in the Bangor area a safe place to sleep, warm meals, and connection to services that will help them move forward in their lives. As one of only five privately operated adult low-barrier shelters in Maine – and the only one north of Waterville – it is an integral part of the emergency shelter system in our state. When it was announced that Hope House would be closing due to lack of funding, Preble Street knew immediately that we wanted – and needed – to support the people who rely on that shelter. We’re thankful we were able to secure the funding needed at the time prevent the closure and ensure that we could manage the budget gaps for the near future. Over the past sixteen years, at least nine shelters in Maine have closed due to lack of funding. The Hope House shelter has been full almost every single night for the past year – the loss of this shelter would have been felt statewide.
As part of integrating Hope House into Preble Street, the team has been working to establish a client-centered approach, in line with Preble Street’s mission and commitment to social work best practices. Centering client voices, staff held group meetings with shelter guests to hear their input and ideas as to what changes would have the best impact.
“One of the greatest transitions has been seeing our program become a leader in viewing service through the lens of social work and social justice in action up here in the Bangor region,” shared Julian Sherman, Administrative Manager at Hope House.
Increased programing at Hope House continues to be a source of joy for staff and guests. Every staff person contributes to planning at least two events per month, ranging from weekly housing groups to 3rd shift’s “special breakfast” where shelter guests vote on what they would like for a monthly fun breakfast that isn’t in the regular rotation. From scratch biscuits and sausage gravy were a favorite, as were breakfast sandwiches and French toast with homemade blueberry sauce.
Other activities have included holiday parties, tie-dye, and a scavenger hunt. Those of us who are housed may take these types of activities for granted. Along with meeting basic needs, Preble Street programs ensure people who are unhoused get to experience those simple pleasures too!
“People should not be discarded,” a conversation with Pastor Jeff Logan
Preble Street’s work is never done in isolation. We are continuously making connections with other social service providers and nonprofits to better serve clients and the needs of the community. This month, we are highlighting Pastor Jeff Logan, Executive Director and co-pastor at Grace-Street Ministry in Portland. Share a little bit about yourself and what brought
Home for Good
“The turning point came when my father was accepted at Huston Commons. This housing development … provided more than just shelter; it offered a comprehensive support system tailored to the needs of my dad. At Huston Commons, my father found safety, stability, and a community that helped him rebuild his life. The onsite support services, including harm
4 things to know about social work at Preble Street
1. It’s about relationships, not just services. Caseworkers don’t just help connect people to food and housing. They focus on building true human connections with the individuals they work with. Listening, treating each individual with dignity and respect, and getting to know someone’s story are all important parts of the work. At Preble Street, social workers see