Portland Housing Authority Receives COVID-19 United Way Grant

PORTLAND, Maine – Portland Housing Authority (PHA) is pleased to announce it has received a Greater Portland COVID-19 Community Relief Fund grant from United Way of Greater Portland to support our most vulnerable, low-income households during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many of our families work multiple part-time jobs of the type hardest hit by COVID-19 restrictions. Many of our seniors and disabled persons need help maintaining social distance. These funds will be used to provide food for families and individuals and technology to support telehealth and connectivity. PHA is thankful for the United Way of Greater Portland for its investment in our work to care for our elders, children, and families affected by this public health crisis.

“PHA and its staff have been very proud supporters of United Way over the years. This is why donations to UW is a good investment, as they have the flexibility in times of need and the partnerships deep in the communities to make the greatest impact,” said Cheryl Sessions, PHA Executive Director.

UWGP volunteers made rapid funding decisions for organizations on the front lines meeting emergency needs for those affected by the pandemic, such as food, shelter, and emergency financial assistance

“Thanks to the generosity of our community, we were able to quickly get money to organizations assisting individuals disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Liz Cotter Schlax, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Portland. “This support is especially critical for those who were already navigating health and financial challenges prior to COVID-19. We are thankful for partners like Portland Housing Authority, who are continuing to respond to the evolving crisis and are a part of the long-term recovery and rebuilding of our community.”

About Portland Housing Authority

Together with its community partners, the PHA provides and expands affordable housing and services that improve quality of life, build community, enhance safety and promote personal success for the people we serve and the neighborhoods in which they reside. PHA and its affiliated corporations provide long-term affordable rental housing and rental assistance to more than 3,000 low-income families, seniors and disabled individuals through its Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Programs. It houses over 6,500 residents, close to 10% of the City’s population. The agency believes that by providing safe, quality, affordable housing and services it gives its residents the stability they need and the opportunity for success they deserve.

About United Way of Greater Portland

For over 90 years, United Way of Greater Portland has served and strengthened Greater Portland by mobilizing the caring power of our community. Today, we are uniting individuals and organizations around our community’s shared vision, Thrive2027, three 10-year goals to improve education, financial stability, and health for every person in Greater Portland. United, with community partners, we build sustainable solutions that achieve long-term results and help our community thrive. We encourage everyone to be part of the change. To give, volunteer, advocate, or learn more, visit unitedwaygp.org.