I am a single mother who currently resides in Maine, struggling every day to provide for my child and I. Like many others in our state, I grapple with paying rent, electricity bills, and putting food on the table. Our cost of living is high and it's a daily battle to make ends meet. Yet, our legislators are considering providing free housing to asylum seekers while we Mainers struggle.

Our state has its own homeless population that needs attention - including veterans who have bravely fought for our country and freedom. These individuals as well as homelesss single mothers, and families deserve priority when it comes to housing assistance programs. Especially when us taxpayers are contributing OUR money towards this.

Maine's homelessness crisis is real. According to Maine Housing in January 2023 there were 4,258 people experiencing homelessness in Maine. Of some of these individuals, 1,236 are families with a child under 18, 245 were adult survivors of DV, 123 were veterans, and 674 were adults with a serious mental illness, those numbers only reflect what we are aware of.

It's time for our legislators to prioritize the needs of their constituents over those seeking asylum in our state. We understand the plight of immigrants but believe that charity begins at home.

We urge you not only as residents but also as voters who can influence your political future - please reconsider this policy decision which could further strain resources meant for Mainers already grappling with economic hardships.

Sign this petition if you agree that Maine legislators should first address the needs of their constituents before extending resources towards asylum seekers.