Food Stamps

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Maine, known as the Food Supplement Program (Food Stamps), gives extra income to needy families to buy nutritious food needed for good health. Its aim is to help low-income households acquire healthy meals for their families.

The former name of this program was the Food Stamp program but was later changed by the Federal government to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP on October 1, 2008. This is due to the fact that physical stamps were not used anymore to help families buy food.

LIHEAP

Maine LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) provides financial assistance to low-income families in Maine so that they can afford to pay their heating bills during winter. The program provides financial assistance directly to the energy provider but rarely gives assistance directly to the applicant in case of crisis.

MaineCare

MaineCare, previously known as Medicaid, is a program that gives health care assistance to people who have limited income. It is a joint program between the federal government and the state of Maine that helps its residents with medical payments.

Medicaid

Medicaid in Maine, also known as MaineCare, offers free medical and health coverage benefits to low-income residents of Maine. The program focuses on providing basic coverage to needy individuals who can't afford private coverage due to their limited resources.

SSDI

Maine residents who meet certain eligibility criteria are entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. These benefits support those who are unable to work because of a disability.

TANF

Maine's TANF program is designed to help families with children who are struggling financially. It provides monetary assistance with the goal of helping beneficiaries reach a point where they can support themselves.

TEFAP

Maine's TEFAP focuses on distributing a wide range of nutritious foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables. This effort is carried out through a well-established network of food banks and local distribution agencies, ensuring that individuals and families across the state have access to healthy food options.

Unemployment

Unemployment Insurance (UI) offers financial support for unemployed workers. This financial support is temporary in nature and it is only available to unemployed workers who meet UI program's eligibility criteria. The amount of benefits is decided by looking at wages that an applicant has been receiving previously. Before any amount of benefits is issued, previous employers are contacted to investigate the reason of separation from unemployment. Eligible unemployed workers are advised to file their UI claim at the earliest since these benefits are not retroactive. You will lose benefits for any eligible week if you do not file a claim. A UI claim can be filed online.

Veterans Disability

Maine provides Veterans Disability Benefits to veterans who have been injured or developed a medical condition during their active military service. This financial compensation is just one way we honor their service and sacrifice. Along with disability benefits, Maine veterans can access additional benefits like VA Life Insurance, Veterans Readiness and Employment, VA home loans, and much more.

WAP

Maine Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides weatherization services to low-income households in Maine. The services may include caulking, repairs, as well as insulation.

WIC

Maine WIC is a government funded nutrition program meant to serve thousands of Maine families, assisting Maine kids to grow up healthy and strong. WIC food benefits are available based on income guidelines and up-to-date nutrition research.