Friends, community members, and kind hearted donors,

Our shelter has been a safe haven for homeless men, women and children in our community for over 40 years. We provide not only a roof over their heads but also a warm meal, a safe space to heal, and support to help them regain independence. Our mission has always been to offer hope to those who need it most, but right now, we need your help as we are facing an unprecedented crisis.

Due to rising operational costs and a decrease in operating funds on a state level we are facing a financial hardship at this time. We are struggling with our organizations basic needs of providing a safe space for all experiencing homelessness in Aroostook County. Despite efforts of decreasing staffing hours, cutting costs wherever we can, and appealing to local communities our hardship continues to effect the daily operations of our shelter. The truth is, without immediate financial assistance, we may be forced to close our doors. This would leave dozens of people without a place to turn, and we can't let that happen.

If we are forced to shut down, the most vulnerable members of our community - men, women, and children who have nowhere else to go - will be left with no support. Homelessness will become even more dangerous as more people will be on the street in our communities. Families will be split apart, and individuals who rely on us for mental health support, housing, referrals, showers and meals will be left to fend for themselves. The impact would be devastating not only for those we serve but for the entire community.

Every dollar donated will go directly toward keeping our doors open and continuing the life-changing services we provide. Your contributions will help us cover:

Meet Sasha, a mother of two who came to us this past fall with nothing but hope to start a new life. She was escaping an abusive relationship and had no where else to turn. Thanks to our shelter and Sasha's motivation to move forward, Sasha and her children found safety in a permanent housing unit for the first time in almost two years. Her children are enrolled in services with local partner agencies and they have begun to heal as a family.

Meet George, a 71 year old man who was living in his vehicle and came to us in the early stages of dementia. There were many barriers to help him get housed in the most appropriate setting. Six months later, he is settled into a long term care facility that meets his needs and he is jolly and happy.

Without your help, we may not be able to help people like Sasha and George. We need your help more than ever now. We are actively advocating for funding on a legislative level to help support shelter operations as there has not been an increase to state funding since 2016. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference and help us to continue to provide these much needed services until more sustaining funds are in place. Together, we can keep our doors open and continue to provide a lifeline to those who have nowhere else to turn.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for your generous support. Your kindness will allow us to continue our work and give hope to those who need it most. We can't do this without you and from the bottoms of our hearts, thank you!