PORTLAND, Maine (AP) - Democratic Gov. Janet Mills is urging communities around Portland, Maine, to help with a sudden influx of asylum-seeking immigrants from Africa, saying “we’re all in this together.”
More than 100 newcomers already are using an emergency shelter set up at the Portland Expo, and about 150 more are expected in coming days. The migrants traveled through Central America and Mexico before legally entering the United States.
The new arrivals are not eligible for state General Assistance, and are relying on city funds and donations from the community.
Mills has committed state aid and resources to helping out on Friday but she didn’t provide a specific number. State officials are already conducting health assessments. She said Maine has “a long, proud tradition of caring for our neighbors.”
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