The city of Portland is seeking community partners to operate a low-barrier winter warming shelter for people experiencing homelessness during the 2026-27 winter season, saying it lacks staffing and facilities to run the shelter on its own.
The city has issued a Request for Expressions of Interest to identify nonprofit organizations, service providers, faith communities, health facilities and property owners interested in helping provide overnight shelter from Dec. 1, 2026, through April 1, 2027.
The proposed shelter would provide overnight refuge during the coldest months of the year and is expected to accommodate between 50 and 100 people each night. Officials said it is intended to serve as a warming shelter rather than a full-service emergency shelter.
City officials are seeking partners to oversee shelter operations, including overnight staffing, intake, transportation coordination, de-escalation and safety monitoring. They are also looking for facilities with open floor plans that meet fire, health, safety and ADA requirements and are located near the Portland peninsula.
“A winter warming shelter is an important part of ensuring that no one in our community is left without protection from severe weather,” said Maggie McLoughlin, director of the city’s Health and Human Services Department. “We are seeking partners who share our commitment to community well-being and who are interested in working collaboratively to make this initiative a reality. We welcome innovative ideas, strong partnerships, and a willingness to help create a safe and dignified option for those in need this winter.”
The request is intended to identify potential partners and gather operational ideas rather than award a contract. Although the city has not yet secured operating funds, officials said they expect to apply for or support partner applications for winter shelter funding through the Maine State Housing Authority this fall.
Organizations interested in responding must obtain official proposal forms through the city’s Purchasing Office. Expressions of interest are due by Wednesday, July 29, at 3:30 p.m.
