Preble Street stands firmly against racism. We commit to the complex work of dismantling systemic racism in our programs and services, in our city, our state, and our country.

As President Trump proposes major cuts to anti-poverty programs in the federal budget, Mainers brace for increased homelessness and hunger. The president’s proposed budget rides the coat tails of deep reductions by Maine state government that resulted in 20,000 Mainers losing food assistance in recent years.

“We need a government that invests in people, not just artillery,” said Timothy Keefe, a U.S. Navy Veteran who was dropped from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) last year due to state-level policy choices like the proposals in the president’s budget. Keefe, who was injured at work, became homeless and slept in a tent all winter. He lacks access to healthcare and food assistance and now must skip multiple meals each day.

Preble Street bid farewell last week to its 2016-17 class of social work interns

This prestigious and competitive social work placement opportunity has been key to meeting the Preble Street mission since it was founded by Joe Kreisler, chair of the University of Southern Maine social work department. The Preble Street internship program has trained more than 400 social workers in its more-than-40-year history.

We see a lot of sadness at Preble Street as those we care about struggle with the tragedy and violence of poverty, untreated mental illness, relentless hunger and the disease of addictions.

We're certainly blessed, however, to bear witness when a client graduates from school, secures a job, finds a new home, or accesses the services they need and deserve. Those of us who work at Preble Street feel honored to share in those joyful moments, and we celebrate those successes.

Now is one of those times to celebrate - times 30!

The spring 2017 edition of Curbside: News from Preble Street hit homes this week. Did you receive a copy? If not, you can read it below, and sign up here for future issues.