MaineHousing Awards $2.72 Million For Winter Warming Shelters

AUGUSTA, Maine - MaineHousing has awarded $2,722,538 to 12 organizations to provide 474 beds at short-term warming shelters this winter.

This year's awards represent the largest funding amount and the most beds supported since the program began five years ago. The grants will support shelters in eight of Maine's nine homeless-service hubs.

The shelters will provide safe, heated spaces for people during extremely cold and dangerous winter weather. Most will operate overnight through April 30.

Funding may be used for staffing, supplies, transportation, extended hours and other shelter operating costs.
"Dangerous winter weather can put lives at risk, especially for people experiencing homelessness or housing instability," said MaineHousing Director Dan Brennan. "These grants help communities open safe, heated spaces before severe cold arrives."

The grants are part of Maine's broader winter preparedness efforts. MaineHousing also administers the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), which help eligible households with heating costs and emergencies.

With heating costs rising, MaineHousing encourages eligible households to apply early and explore available assistance before an emergency occurs.

"We know many families are concerned about energy costs," Brennan said. "Programs such as HEAP can help thousands of Maine households each year, and we urge people to seek help before they face a crisis."

"We are grateful to the Governor and the Maine Legislature for making these funds available," Brennan said. "This investment helps local organizations prepare before winter and respond when dangerous weather threatens Maine people."

Grant recipients will work with municipalities, emergency management officials and community partners to connect people with safe, warm shelter when conditions become hazardous.

For information about heating assistance and emergency heating support, visit MaineHousing's website or contact a local community action agency.