Stories

Peter was homeless for eight months, sleeping on the street and in different shelters in Augusta and Lewiston. He’s an Air Force Veteran, originally from Madawaska, Maine, who lost housing when his landlord increased his rent with only a month’s notice. “I had an apartment for seven years. New landlord

“I’ll say it 1000 times over, the VA saved my life,” shares Ron. Ron is a former U.S. Marine. He currently lives at a residential facility in Lewiston, Maine, operated by Veteran’s Inc., a nonprofit that provides support services to Veterans and Veteran families across New England. They are a trusted

When he first shared his story in the fall of 2022, Austin was spending his nights at the Preble Street Joe Kreisler Teen Shelter or outside on the streets. But for the past six months, Austin has been living in a one-bedroom apartment in Portland with a roommate and working

Larry, a U.S. Navy Veteran, has lived in Maine since junior high. Unfortunately, due to rising housing, utility, and food costs, he found himself facing homelessness at age 63. After hearing about Preble Street Veterans Housing Services from a fellow Veteran and friend, he decided to reach out. “I got

Sitting at his kitchen table in the apartment he’s been living in since Spring 2023, 27-year-old Mark is hopeful. “I just have a lot more peace of mind and feel more at peace with myself. I can relax and work on maintaining my mental health. I feel like I’m actually

Erin’s Story On a beautiful, sunny day in May, Erin talks about her home with a bright smile on her face. “It’s so comforting to know you’re home. It’s your home. It’s just a sense of security you don’t have when you’re in the shelter.” Five years ago, Erin and

U.S. Air Force Veteran, Elizabeth, who served in the 1950s, unexpectedly fell into homelessness in 2021. She immediately connected with Preble Street Veterans Housing Services (VHS), who secured her a room in a hotel shelter until she could find permanent housing. “I can’t say enough about Chelli (VHS caseworker),” shared

“I love living here already! I don’t need to pull down my mask for you to know I’m smiling.” After about seven years of homelessness, James moved into his apartment at Preble Street Housing First Program, Logan Place, in July 2021! Over the years, James has built relationships with many

A month before turning 18, Ben arrived at Preble Street after having stayed at multiple foster homes and youth shelters. Over the course of the spring and summer, Teen Services staff — along with collaborative partners — provided Ben the structure and stability he desperately wanted and needed. Ben gained

JoJo became a tenant of Florence House after living in both the emergency shelter and safe haven housing in the building. “You have a place to go, you have people to talk to, you have the support of the staff. It’s a lot safer than being out in the streets…

The first time Matthew experienced homelessness was when he was 14. He was living in the woods of rural Maine in a tent by himself. Depression about his situation led to substance use, which led to more depression, and he went a decade without seeing or speaking with his family.

Over the summer, Teen Services staff and youth collaborated with Cultivating Community to plant and harvest a garden in the Teen Center courtyard. Tomatoes, strawberries, rhubarb, herbs, and an assortment of flowers all flourished, and much of the food was harvested and used by Preble Street Food Programs to prepare