STORIES

Ben’s Story

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 employment and was accepted into a residential program in northern Maine where he lives now.

During his most recent call to the Teen Center, Ben reported to staff and other youth that he loves his new program and home, and expressed excitement about having his own room and making new friends.

Ben is one of many youth in whose story we are privileged to play a part.

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Peter’s Story

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 bought it and told me

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Ron’s Story

“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 partner of Preble Street, working

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Austin’s Story

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 as much as possible at

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