The proposed rule would scrap the Obama administration’s 2016 guidance requiring such shelters to accept transgender people.
homelessness
Our View: We can’t go back to Maine’s ‘normal’ on homelessness
Nonprofit agencies and the state are trying to fix flaws in the shelter system that have been exposed by the coronavirus.
Commentary: Housing will end homelessness, protect people from COVID-19
Federal aid can create permanent homes, provide support services and keep Mainers out of the places where they get infected.
Commentary: Groups working together to ensure safety of people experiencing homelessness in Portland
Shelters have worked quickly to redefine themselves, setting aside spaces for people to isolate or quarantine.
Portland faces difficulties safeguarding homeless during pandemic
Staff at four city homeless facilities are stretched thin and don’t have the authority to enforce safety protocols, which are sometimes ignored.
Maine Voices: Portland falls short in stopping virus’ spread among homeless community
Now city officials are demonizing people without homes, rather than explaining why they didn’t take expert advice to open more shelters earlier.
The View From Here: A long way in a short time
It’s hard to fathom how much has changed and how far we may have to go.
Portland quarantines dozens at Expo as 2nd illness confirmed at city homeless shelter
Two new arrivals from outside Maine test positive for COVID-19, prompting Portland to close its shelters to newcomers and hold an emergency City Council meeting to address shelter guests who refuse to be quarantined.
USM’s Sullivan Gym to be converted to homeless shelter by next week
The gym on Falmouth Street in Portland will be open to men and women who need shelter and aren’t showing symptoms of having COVID-19.
Mainers with no homes have greater risk, far fewer options to avoid virus
An advocate for the homeless says that even with precautions against infection in shelters, ‘it’s not if, but when.’