05/02/2025
YCSP announced yesterday that we have begun to suspend much of our organizational operations. With growing expenses, debt, and a projected inability to continue to meet payroll and operating expenses, the Board of Directors came to the grim realization that it must effectuate closing dates.
Over the past few years, YCSP has been trying to raise the alarm level about the lack of funding. Emergency shelters throughout the state receive just $7 per night per bed in state funding. It costs $102 per night.
Costs continue to rise for heat, utilities, staff expenses, property and health insurance, and food for the shelter residents. With a $5 million annual operating budget, even with the gracious donations of our supporters, York County Shelter Program experienced a widening gap between funds and costs that finally became insurmountable.
Twenty staff members were notified of a layoff yesterday. Some staff remain to ensure the safety and care of the Shelter residents until alternative housing is found. Other agencies, including York County Community Action, Caring Unlimited, Sanford Housing Authority, and United Way of Southern Maine are working with York County Shelter Programs to find alternative housing for the residents. Additional details for other programs are still being finalized. We will continue to work with other social service agencies and seek ways to extend or hand over programs where it is feasible.
We know the amazing YCSP supporters are looking for ways to help. We will continue to communicate as we learn more, and better know what will happen, and when. In the meantime, we would encourage our friends of YCSP to advocate for increased funding for emergency housing costs and affordable housing with local, state and federal officials.
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