Biddeford and Saco (Maine) Select Social Impact Studio as Consultants to Develop Strategies to Address Homelessness in the Community.

The Social Impact Studio engaged in extensive research to provide the cities of Biddeford and Saco, Maine, with strategies to address the state of homelessness in their respective communities. Findings culminated a formal report with detailed recommendations to appropriately address these issues. The report highlighted the need for comprehensive solutions and community engagement, as well as the need for a Community Response Coordinating Council to establish formal systems of care coordination. Policy recommendations were also a focal point, including leveraging property tax cuts to incentivize affordable housing construction and updating zoning ordinances. The report noted the cities' compassionate approach over punitive measures as a crucial means to addressing and decriminalizing homelessness.