Tell UMaine to Save Family Housing for Student Workers

PHOTO: UMaine Grad Worker Derek Demello gives talk about proposed closure of University Park on Aug. 2 at Labor Summer Institute.

The University of Maine is pushing to close a family housing complex that has served student and faculty since 1961. Built with funds from the GI Bill in 1946, University Park provides housing at cost to students and faculty with families, including members of the University of Maine Graduate Workers-UAW.

Speaking at a joint workshop with the Brunswick Renters Organization at Labor Summer Institute last Friday, UMaine Grad Workers Union member Derek Demello, who lives at University Park with his wife and children, pointed out that grad workers can’t afford to compete for housing in the area due to soaring rental costs. Offering this service allows student workers from Maine and overseas, faculty and non-traditional students to pursue their careers and thrive on campus. Without this housing Demello would not be able to afford to work and study on campus because he only earns $2000 a month from the University. The UMaine Grad Workers are currently in contract negotiations to raise their abysmally low pay.

Please sign this petition calling on UMaine to preserve University Park housing.

When University Park opened in 1961, then-president Lloyd H. Elliot explained:

"In providing University Park at cost to married students, the University simply chooses to render a service in order that more students may complete their education. Hundreds of colleges take no responsibility for housing of such students; the University of Maine has chosen to help the married student continue [their] education."

We ask the University of Maine to honor that pledge for the generations of families that follow.