AUGUSTA - Today, Rep. Michael Brennan, D-Portland, introduced LD 599 before the Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee, which would provide $1.2 million in ongoing funding to Elena's Way, a transitional housing program based in Portland that serves Mainers living with homelessness across the state.
"The uniqueness of Elena's Way is that it targets people who are restricted from or unable to access other conventional shelters," said Brennan. "These individuals have complex medical needs, histories of trauma, untreated substance use or severe and persistent behavioral health issues. By providing ongoing funding, Elena's Way will be able to continue to serve some of our most vulnerable community members."
Unlike other shelters, Elena's Way provides a more home-like environment, with space to serve up to 40 people who are chronically homeless. It also provides regular access to food and beds in a trauma-informed space with sleeping areas for men, women and couples and a comprehensive array of services, including intensive case management and MaineCare Section 17 Community Rehabilitation Services.
The Legislature's Health and Human Services Committee will hold a work session on the bill in the coming weeks.
Brennan is serving his third consecutive term in the Maine House, having previously served four terms in the House and three in the Senate. He represents House District 115, which includes a portion of Portland, and serves as House chair of the Legislature's Education and Cultural Affairs Committee.
Contact:
Brian Lee [Brennan], 305-965-2744