STORIES

Elizabeth’s Story

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 Elizabeth. “She has been there every step of the way. She is so willing to listen and not criticize. The Preble Street caseworkers I’ve talked to always listen and respond in a non-critical, non-judgmental way. No matter what I need, no matter how small it would seem to anybody else, they never make me feel less than or not worthy of their time.”

Elizabeth is an incredible advocate for herself, and with the help of her caseworker she was able to find an apartment that fit her needs within three months! She continues to work with her caseworker to ensure her basic needs are met and that she is able to maintain her housing.

Elizabeth, VHS client

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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