In February 2025, Preble Street officially assumed operations of Hope House Shelter in Bangor! In that time, staff have helped an incredible 57 people move from the shelter into permanent housing and provided 268 individuals shelter and housing navigation services.
365 days/year, Hope House provides 56 people (68 when renovations are complete) in the Bangor area a safe place to sleep, warm meals, and connection to services that will help them move forward in their lives. As one of only five privately operated adult low-barrier shelters in Maine – and the only one north of Waterville – it is an integral part of the emergency shelter system in our state. When it was announced that Hope House would be closing due to lack of funding, Preble Street knew immediately that we wanted – and needed – to support the people who rely on that shelter. We’re thankful we were able to secure the funding needed at the time prevent the closure and ensure that we could manage the budget gaps for the near future. Over the past sixteen years, at least nine shelters in Maine have closed due to lack of funding. The Hope House shelter has been full almost every single night for the past year – the loss of this shelter would have been felt statewide.
As part of integrating Hope House into Preble Street, the team has been working to establish a client-centered approach, in line with Preble Street’s mission and commitment to social work best practices. Centering client voices, staff held group meetings with shelter guests to hear their input and ideas as to what changes would have the best impact.
Increased programing at Hope House continues to be a source of joy for staff and guests. Every staff person contributes to planning at least two events per month, ranging from weekly housing groups to 3rd shift’s “special breakfast” where shelter guests vote on what they would like for a monthly fun breakfast that isn’t in the regular rotation.
Other activities have included holiday parties, tie-dye, and a scavenger hunt. Those of us who are housed may take these types of activities for granted. Along with meeting basic needs, Preble Street programs ensure people who are unhoused get to experience those simple pleasures too!
Staff highlight: Annick Nzeyimana – Walking alongside clients
Preble Street staff are #CompassionInAction, and we want you to get to know them! This month we’re introducing you to Annick Nzeyimana, Case Worker, Anti-Trafficking Services. How long have you worked at Preble Street? I have been working at Preble Street and in the Anti-Trafficking Services program for the past two years. What do you like most about your role? What
Preble Street testimony in support of permanent, sustainable funding for Maine emergency shelters
Maine needs and deserves safe, accessible, professionally run, and sustainable emergency shelters that can meet the needs of the growing number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our state. On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, shelter executive directors and staff from across the state went to Augusta to advocate for a sustainable funding source that
Take Action: Tell Maine to provide permanent funding for emergency shelters!
Depending on where a person lives in our state, they may need to travel hours to the nearest shelter if they become homeless. There is no guarantee that when they arrive there will be a bed available. Right now, there are not enough shelter beds in Maine for the thousands of individuals and families experiencing