Community support networks are growing in Maine. Here’s where to find help.

By Leela Stockley, Bangor Daily News Staff

Although a deal has been reached to end the government shutdown that jeopardized SNAP benefits for thousands of Mainers, heating aid and other assistance programs are still feeling the impact of a lack of federal funding.

Gov. Janet Mills announced that funds had been released to cover full SNAP benefits for Mainers for the month of November, and payments started going out Nov. 10. 

Throughout the weeks of uncertainty Maine food pantries, local businesses and community members have worked together to help provide food for families in need. 

Maine has 260 established food assistance programs, including food pantries, soup kitchens and other services, according to a list maintained by the state Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Conservation. The department maintains a searchable database that includes stores that accept SNAP benefits to help locate resources near you. 

There are also a number of independent, community-driven food drives across the state. The activism group Activate Maine has a searchable database of pantries and local food drives. If you are organizing a food drive, contact the organizers to be added to the list. 

Another resource available to Mainers in need are wood banks that can provide firewood to families that use wood stoves as either their main or supplemental heat source. The Maine Wood Bank organization has a list of areas that provide heating fuel assistance.

For more information on food resources and other local services, 211 is a fee, confidential service that can provide a directory. Call 211 and ask about food resources or visit 211Maine.org. If you’re having trouble getting through to 211, you can call 866-811-5695. You can also text your zip code to 898-211.
The regional Area Agency on Aging can provide more information for older adults or adults with disabilities who need additional support. The agencies may also be able to provide information on how to receive home-delivered meals for those who are homebound and cannot prepare food for themselves. For more information contact 1-877-353-3771.