In the shadows of Acadia National Park, a troubling issue of homelessness is gaining visibility. Donna Harmon, who operates the Schoodic Food Pantry in Gouldsboro, Maine, has witnessed a significant rise in need since she began her work two and a half years ago. Initially serving just 35 families, the pantry now supports nearly 500 families weekly. Many of these individuals struggle in silence, with at least 20 people reported to be living in tents, cars, and abandoned homes in the area.
Hancock County, known for its picturesque landscapes and upscale vacation spots such as Mount Desert Island and Stonington, faces a stark reality. An analysis of census data by the United Way revealed that in 2023, approximately 42 percent of residents fell below the poverty line or were unable to cover basic living expenses. This alarming statistic underscores the invisible crisis facing many in this seemingly affluent region.
Increasing Demand for Assistance
The only homeless shelters in Hancock County not restricted to individuals fleeing domestic violence are operated by HOME, Inc. in Orland. As demand for its services continues to rise, funding remains a significant challenge. The organization has reported a growing number of households requiring shelter, reaching 10,317 households in total, an increase of over 1,600 since 2010. Many towns outside Mount Desert Island report poverty rates nearing 50 percent.
The challenges of rural homelessness are compounded by limited access to services and state support that inadequately addresses the gap. Amy Smith, a housing navigator at HOME, stated, “We get calls every day for people looking for shelter.” The organization operates the region’s only family shelter, which has seen a notable increase in its annual “bed nights” occupied, rising by more than 3,000 since 2019. In 2024, 249 individuals utilized the shelter, many facing unexpected financial hardships that led to their homelessness.
“Unexpected challenges can create a domino effect,” Smith explained, noting that a broken car or a sudden medical bill can push families over the edge.
The Personal Impact of Homelessness
Smith’s own experience highlights the precariousness of housing security. In 2015, she and her three young children sought refuge at HOME after their family faced eviction due to illness and late rent payments. “It could happen to anybody from anywhere,” she remarked, emphasizing the universality of the issue.
Her daughter, Thylicia Curry, now 14, recalls the difficulties of living in a shelter, including being separated from her father. Despite these challenges, Thylicia expressed gratitude for the support they received, saying it was a “second chance” that many families do not receive.
HOME, Inc. is also implementing innovative solutions, like a diversion program that helped 28 families avoid homelessness last year. This proactive approach may have prevented staff member Julie Ream from experiencing homelessness herself in 2014, when a utility shut-off led her and her daughter to seek shelter.
Despite these efforts, at a systemic level, shelters are struggling to keep pace with demand. Rosalini Moore, executive director of HOME, reported that York County’s only adult shelter closed in May due to financial constraints, while other shelters are on the brink of closure without additional funding. The state recently increased reimbursement for shelter beds to $18 per night, but this still falls short of the $102 it costs to operate each bed effectively.
“We’ve been struggling for ages trying to make it work,” Moore stated, highlighting the growing financial strain on her organization and others across the state.
As housing costs escalate, especially in areas like Ellsworth, local officials have identified several encampments, reflecting the rising homelessness in the county. Most individuals relying on shelters are renters who have faced eviction as property owners increase rents.
Barriers in Rural Areas
The unique challenges of rural living add another layer to the homelessness crisis. Limited job opportunities and services within walking distance from shelters complicate the situation. Smith pointed out that access to public transportation could significantly improve the circumstances for those facing housing insecurity.
Applying for assistance programs can also be daunting. Many individuals give up due to complicated application processes, adding to their sense of hopelessness. Harmon believes that simplifying these processes could lead to more effective support for those in need.
As the Schoodic Food Pantry continues to grow, it aims to expand its services further. “The need is there, the need is growing, and we need to recognize that need,” Harmon emphasized.
The situation in Hancock County illustrates that even in regions celebrated for their natural beauty and tourism, the reality of homelessness remains a pressing and often overlooked issue. Addressing this crisis necessitates a committed response from communities, service providers, and policymakers to ensure that no one is left without a place to call home.