News

Fire at YMCA Displaces Men Living in Housing Program

Fire at YMCA Displaces Men Living in Housing Program

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


PORTLAND, Maine (AP) Fire officials in Maine are investigating a fire at the Portland YMCA that displaced 31 men.

The Portland Press Herald reports crews responded to the Portland YMCA around 4 p.m. Thursday. Assistant Fire Chief Keith Gautreau says a sprinkler system helped contain the small fire.

No injuries were reported.

According to a YMCA statement, the residents had been living in the dormitory through a housing support program called GROW. YMCA officials say the program provides temporary shelter for men moving into stable housing from homelessness.

YMCA of Southern Maine CEO Helen Brena says the organization is working with the Red Cross to help residents who have been displaced by the fire.

Officials say the YMCA will be open Friday.

Latest Headlines

9 hours ago in Local

Historic Sale of Dams Opens Salmon Return to Kennebec River

The sale all but guarantees unfettered access for endangered Atlantic salmon.

11 hours ago in Local

Two Men Arrested After Standoffs in Penobscot County

Both men face domestic violence charges

11 hours ago in Local

Portland State Lawmaker Joins Governor’s Race as Independent

Crocket represents parts of Portland and Falmouth and is a former Democrat

14 hours ago in Local

Minivan, school bus collision injures 3 in Gorham

Three people were injured when a school bus and a minivan collided Wednesday morning in Gorham.

14 hours ago in Local

Search warrant related to explosive devices prompts lockdown at Kennebec County school

A school in Pittston was placed in lockdown on Wednesday while authorities executed a search warrant related to the discovery of explosives during a traffic stop earlier this week.