$6.2 million earmarked to help Maine homeless

WASHINGTON – Maine will receive $6.2 million to provide housing and support services for homeless families and individuals in the state, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said Tuesday.

President Bush and HUD Secretary Mel Martinez said the grants are part of more than $1 billion being parceled out to help the homeless nationwide.

Maine’s funding was earmarked for the state and the cities of Bangor and Portland.

Two types of grants will be awarded. Continuum of care grants provide transitional and permanent housing opportunities and help fund support services, such as job training, health care and child care. Emergency shelter grants help convert buildings into homeless shelters, assist in the operations of shelters and fund-related social services and homeless prevention activities.