The Maine People’s Alliance has presented state Rep. Cheryl Golek, D-Harpswell, with its Rising Tide Award for her work to address Maine’s housing crisis. Golek accepted the award at the progressive organization’s annual banquet on Sept. 28.
“We all know that the key to success for Maine families is safe, affordable housing,” said Golek, who serves on the Legislature’s Joint Select Committee on Housing. “Without it, people cannot work, children cannot learn, individuals cannot be safe and healthy, and our state cannot thrive. Access to housing is a human right, and I look forward to continuing this important work when the Legislature reconvenes in January.”
According to a recent study, Maine needs more than 80,000 new homes to meet demand by 2030. Last session, Golek worked with other members of the Housing Committee to pass measures including a $100 million investment in the production of affordable housing and emergency housing initiatives such as the new Housing First Program.
“After serving on a legislative commission to address our housing crisis, Rep. Golek walked in her first year as a legislator with reforms to the housing voucher system that will tackle so many of the problems that voucher holders face,” said Cate Blackford, public policy director for the Maine People’s Alliance.
In addition to the Joint Select Committee on Housing, Golek sits on the Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. She represents District 99, which includes Harpswell and part of Brunswick.
