Authors Note: This is the first in a series of columns about homelessness in Biddeford.

In Biddeford, a pressing reality confronts us visibly every day: many of our neighbors are on the brink of financial collapse. Just one unexpected expense — a medical emergency or a missed paycheck — could thrust those on the brink into severe hardship. This constant balancing act between essential needs like rent, childcare, and groceries is not just a private struggle; it is a public concern that echoes through our city.

These decisions, made under duress, not only impact the lives of individual families but also bear long-term consequences for the health and stability of our entire community.

In the face of this economic vulnerability, our most vulnerable neighbors are the ones who suffer most. Homelessness, a clear symptom of broader systemic issues, defies stereotypes and impacts a diverse cross-section of our community. Approaching this crisis will require more than immediate aid; it demands a comprehensive, empathetic response that tackles underlying causes and commits to long-term strategies for lasting change.

Council Workshop this Tuesday

With a focus on addressing the homelessness crisis, the Mayor and City Council are convening a Council Workshop this Tuesday, Jan. 9 at 5:30 p.m. This meeting aims to discuss the immediate unhoused crisis and formulate future strategies.

The importance of collaboration and a comprehensive strategy was underscored at a December legislative summit in Sanford organized jointly by multiple municipalities including Biddeford, Kennebunk, and Sanford. Supported by York County Community Action and the York County Homelessness Services Hub, the summit emphasized the necessity of shared solutions and enhanced state funding, while acknowledging that such a crisis transcends the capacity of any single municipality.

Tuesday’s workshop In Biddeford will provide an in-depth look at the findings of the recently completed Biddeford and Saco Unhoused Services Analysis report. Furthermore, it will feature insights from key regional stakeholders, including the Biddeford Police Department, Biddeford Schools, Seeds of Hope, Biddeford Housing Authority, and York County Community Action who are all instrumental in addressing this crisis.

To ensure broad community participation, the workshop can be attended in person at City Hall or virtually via Zoom (Passcode: 171268) . For those unable to attend but wishing to contribute their thoughts, concerns, and ideas, you may contact your City Councilor on the City’s website.

Sobering Statistics

Imagine a city where more than half of its households teeter on the edge of financial instability. This is the stark reality in Biddeford, where the shadow of homelessness is a symptom of deeper socio-economic challenges that ripple across our community and State.

More than a mere shortage of housing, this crisis mirrors profound socioeconomic issues. A Harvard University study revealed that nearly half of Maine's tenants are burdened by rent they can barely afford. Further underlining this predicament, a United Way report discovered that 42% of Maine households fall below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold, with 30% earning above the Federal Poverty Level yet unable to meet basic living costs.

The situation is even more acute in Biddeford, where 52% of households sit below the ALICE threshold. Another telling indicator of this crisis is Maine’s annual Point in Time Survey, which revealed a staggering increase in unhoused individuals, from 1,297 individuals in 2020 to 4,258 individuals three years later.

These statistics illuminate the precarious financial circumstances confronting numerous individuals and families in our community. However, it is crucial to remember that this crisis is about more than numbers; it is about real people - our neighbors.

Recently, I learned of a disheartening occurrence whereby several neighbors living in an encampment in downtown Biddeford have been repeatedly subjected to heckling and insults from multiple folks passing-by. Such incidents are an unfortunate reminder of the social stigmas and challenges that our unhoused neighbors face, beyond the struggle for shelter and stability.

Yet, these negative experiences, do not define our community's response to homelessness. There is a supportive and compassionate side to Biddeford that often prevails. The strong sense of community spirit, volunteerism, and generosity in Biddeford, especially evident during the holidays with numerous clothing and food drives, shows that we are capable of much more empathy and support. These actions represent the best of us and are the foundation upon which we can build effective solutions for the homelessness crisis.

As we convene for the upcoming City Council Workshop, it is crucial to remember these contrasting aspects of our community's response to homelessness. We must address not only the physical needs of the unhoused but also foster a culture of understanding and respect, turning away from indifference and towards compassionate action.

Author's Note: The next installment in this series will delve into the key findings and themes from Biddeford's Council Workshop and the Unhoused Report.

Liam LaFountain is serving his second term on the Biddeford City Council and works as a healthcare analyst at the non-profit Healthcare Purchaser Alliance. He welcomes questions, comments, and ideas and can be contacted directly at liam.lafountain@biddefordmaine.org.

The views and opinions herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints and opinions of Saco Bay News, its employees, publisher, or advertisers.