The longest night of the year is a time to remember the unhoused friends we have lost this past year and to recommit ourselves to the task of ending homelessness. A candlelight procession will start at the MaineHealth-Preble Street Learning Collaborative at 20 Portland Street at 4:30 pm, and will proceed to Monument Square for a ceremony dedicated to the people who have died too soon in our community.

All people who are currently unhoused or unsheltered, who have experienced homelessness, who work with people who are homeless, or who are thankful they are currently housed are welcome and encouraged to participate.

The life expectancy of our friends who endure chronic homelessness is 28 years shorter, on average, than that of people who are housed. The human toll of allowing these vulnerable neighbors to slip through the cracks is devastating.

These deaths are the result of a broken system. As a community, we must come together to provide affordable housing and more Site-based Housing First programs, dignified and professionally-run shelters, and expanded services for physical and mental health and substance use disorders.

Together, we will mourn the lives that were cut short and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that everyone who needs a home finds one.