Two Permanent Supportive Housing Projects Open in Waterville

16 Gilman Street, Waterville, ME

Community Housing of Maine (CHOM) recently completed the rehabilitation of two properties in Waterville with funding assistance of $597,170 from HUD's McKinney Vento Continuum of Care program. Each property includes four energy efficient, one bedroom apartments, each with a living area, bedroom, private bath and a complete kitchen with Energy Star appliances. Rents are made affordable with HUD Project-Based Section 8 vouchers funded through the Maine State Housing Authority. Both properties are within walking distance of downtown Waterville, allowing the tenants access to services, employment and other conveniences.

The properties provide supportive housing (www.hudhre.info/index.cfm?do=viewSupportiveHousingProgram) for homeless veterans and for people who are homeless and living with a mental illness. All apartments leased-up almost immediately and are having a very positive impact on tenants. Steve says: "I have been living outside for 13 years. After a month living here, it is starting to feel like home."

67 Silver Street, Waterville, ME

Community Housing of Maine (CHOM) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides advocacy, supportive housing, community inclusion and stability for homeless and special needs populations across Maine. CHOM also provides workforce housing for people who can't afford to live near their work. Founded in 1993, CHOM has developed 75 housing sites in 31 communities spanning 12 counties, creating over 688 units of low-income and special needs housing.

Jeff noted, "stability is a big relief. Now that I have a door with a deadbolt, I don't need to worry about someone coming in and stealing my stuff. When I get stuff, I won't need to worry."

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