Katie Spencer White Criticizes Maine Homeless Population Undercount

CEO of Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter & Services Katie Spencer White criticized the 2026 Point-in-Time homeless count in Maine, claiming the data significantly undercounts the actual homeless population. While the official count reported 361 unsheltered individuals, White asserts the real number is likely 2.5 to 10 times higher.

White argues this discrepancy leads to systemic underfunding of the homeless response system. She highlighted a shortage of the state's approximately 1,100 shelter beds and noted that resources are distributed unevenly across counties. The methodology for the single-night count is dictated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General.

To address these gaps, White advocated for a dual approach that combines housing with behavioral health and addiction treatment. She cited a 76% reduction in overdose reversals after Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter & Services became a state-licensed Behavioral Health and Substance Use Agency in May. White called on the state to better utilize data to drive innovation and improve services for vulnerable populations.