Only half of Bangor’s warming centers receive state funding this winter (Bangor, Maine)

Two overnight warming centers in Bangor will receive state funding this winter, providing critical support for individuals experiencing homelessness. The Brick Church will be awarded $427,650 from MaineHousing, while the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter will receive $10,000. This total of $437,650 marks the highest funding amount for Bangor in the program’s history, surpassing previous years’ allocations.

The $2.72 million in statewide funding for warming centers this year represents the largest sum ever awarded since the program began five years ago. The funding will support 5 beds at the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter and 65 beds at the Brick Church. However, the Mansion Church and the Together Place recovery center, which also applied for state funding, remain uncertain about their ability to operate without additional support.

Last year, Bangor’s four warming centers served approximately 80 to 90 individuals per night. Bruce Hews, the city’s homeless response coordinator, noted the importance of having multiple warming center options, as some individuals may be banned from one shelter and need to be referred elsewhere. This year’s funding will help maintain the city’s network of services, though the announcement has raised questions about potential restructuring of the system.

MaineHousing previously awarded $67,000 to Bangor warming centers last year for 30 beds, split between the Bangor Area Homeless Shelter and the Mansion Church. The year before that, the total was $130,540 for 93 beds. The city provided emergency funding last year when the Brick Church’s request was denied, allowing it to continue operations and enabling the Together Place to open its first overnight warming center.

The city’s efforts to support warming centers reflect a broader commitment to addressing housing insecurity and ensuring access to essential services. As the state continues to allocate resources, the challenge remains to sustain and expand these critical programs for vulnerable neighbors.

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