Michelle Lamm News Today

Asylum seekers who endured perils to get here say they were drawn to Maine because of its peacefulness, resources and community. Some say they learned of Maine on their long journeys away from their homelands, while others found it doing online research or knew people from home who were already here.

But church leaders said they're not sure how long they can maintain these volunteer efforts.

Greater Portland Family Promise has been working with area congregations to shelter asylum-seeking families for two weeks at a time.

Up to 175 units may be available in three communities by spring, with some expected to open as early as this month.

It can take many months to find landlords who will take their vouchers and rents they can afford.