We bring partners from across the state together to unite around shared priorities and advocate with one strong, collective voice
OUR ADVOCACY
While CHOM's direct work is providing high-quality housing, CHOM is also deeply
dedicated to advocating for a better world in which everyone can be included.
CREATE, FACILITATE
CHOM initiated and coordinates FUSE Greater Portland, a highly collaborative, cross-system initiative. Using a by-name, data-driven approach, the FUSE Committee prioritizes housing and long-term stability for people who are chronically homeless or unsheltered, frequently use emergency systems, and require permanent supportive housing.
RESEARCH
CHOM plays an active role in researching and disseminating information about Federal, State, and local legislation and policy initiatives. CHOM plays an integral role in assisting groups, coalitions, and organizations in taking action to support policies, legislation, and initiatives pivotal to the successful community inclusion of vulnerable populations.
PARTICIPATE
CHOM staff actively participates in and have held leadership roles in the Statewide Homeless Council, Regions I, II, and III Homeless Councils, the Maine Continuum of Care (MCOC), the Emergency Shelter Assessment and Response Team (ESART), the Maine Affordable Housing Coalition (MAHC), and the Maine Developmental Services Oversight and Advisory Board, among other groups.
INFORMATION
CHOM regularly tracks legislation and policy initiatives at the local, State, and Federal levels regarding resources to end & prevent homelessness and create community inclusion for vulnerable populations. CHOM compiles & disseminates information on local, State, and Federal policy and legislation, which are reviewed in various homeless response system meetings and Maine Coalition for Housing and Quality Services meetings.
HOMELESS ADVOCACY
All of CHOM's work is rooted in vigorous advocacy, working to ensure that everyone is included as part of the community. This is done through local, municipal, State, and Federal collective, grassroots advocacy efforts designed to ensure that people have access to the resources needed to live and thrive.​
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CHOM has established collaborative relationships with advocates in Maine, who all work together to effect positive, lasting change for vulnerable populations. ​
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CHOM leads and participates in various advocacy and policy related activities on the local, state, and national levels. CHOM works with steadfast advocates working on policy initiatives to end and prevent homelessness.
CATALYST FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION
CHOM works with advocates across Maine to ensure our collective voices are heard at all levels of government. We play a key role in helping groups, coalitions, and organizations advance policies, legislation, and initiatives that support the successful community inclusion of vulnerable populations, including by regularly assisting with drafting correspondence that demonstrates the effectiveness of these policy efforts.
EXPERTISE ON ENDING HOMELESSNESS
CHOM staff are routinely invited to share their expertise on effective strategies communities can use to prevent and end homelessness. Drawing on on-the-ground experience and proven models, CHOM is frequently asked to present in a variety of settings – both locally and nationally – highlighting best practices, lessons learned, and pathways to achieving lasting housing stability.
ADVOCACY GOALS
IMPROVE HEALTH & WELLNESS
Housing is a key social determinant of health
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ACHIEVE COMMUNITY INCLUSION
Everyone deserves to be part of their community.
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UNITE
FAMILIES​
Families adequately supported and brought together create a reduction in state custody and foster care costs
INCREASE SELF ESTEEM & SELF WORTH
People feel secure, healthy, and feel best when they belong, and have a safe and stable place to call home
REDUCE
COSTS
Smart policies create system-wide cost savings in emergency services, shelter, and healthcare costs
GENERATE
ACCESS
People thrive when we remove barriers and create access to jobs, social interaction, and education
