PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — For Mainers in Aroostook County experiencing homelessness, housing resources have been scarce.
"There was no supportive housing in our area. We kept seeing homeless numbers increase," Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP) Director Heidi Rackliffe said.
With the introduction of the Norman L. Fournier Place, though, the Aroostook County Action Program hopes to change that.
"We're really hoping this place serves as a place where people can find hope, where people can find a way forward, and people can find the community does care for them and that people will help surround them at their time of need," ACAP Executive Director Jason Parent said.
The new housing facility in Presque Isle includes 13 fully furnished units, each equipped with a sink, oven, fridge, and bathroom.
There are also on-site washers and dryers, showers, free meals, and computers available to residents and anyone who may need them during the week.
Officials with ACAP hope that providing formal attire for potential job interviews as well as classes teaching valuable skills like meal prepping will also give those struggling the tools needed to have a successful future.
"Teaching people these lifelong skills and providing support for them so they have the ability to live their lives to the fullest potential," Rackliffe said.
ACAP has already received 25 applications for the units, and MaineHousing Director Daniel Brennan says the housing center comes at a time when Aroostook County needs it.
"These folks have struggled throughout their entire lives and now a resource is available to help them overcome those issues," Brennan said.
"When people have a place to sleep, and they have a place to relax and focus in on getting the assistance they need they can turn their lives around and that's what this project is going to do," Brennan added.
A project that longtime community activist Norman Fournier is honored to lend his name to.
"My reaction was basically shocked, speechless, and surreal," Fournier said.
And something he hopes can help those in Aroostook County for years to come.
"People can just walk down, get services, or be pointed in the right direction. You know it's a great service," Fournier said.
Officials with ACAP say the Norman L. Fournier Place will be open to residents by the beginning of September.