Last Updated on February 1, 2024 by Lori Pace
During the 20th century, Maine’s economy became increasingly dependent on the services sector, while its traditional industry of manufacturing paper and paper-based products decreased. The second-most important sector is fishing, forestry, and mining. Since the 1950s, the Department of Economic and Community Development has been promoting an active economic program. The Finance Authority of Maine, a public-private partnership that encourages investment and provides loan guarantees, was formed by the Finance Authority of Maine. The state of Maine has also used the services of the Federal Economic Development Administration as well as the Small Business Administration to help single mothers and provide financial assistance.
MaineCare Medicaid Program
MaineCare is Maine’s Medicaid Program. The state and federal government funds and provides health coverage to eligible individuals and their families. People who meet income guidelines are eligible for health care coverage, and have a family situation can obtain MaineCare.
The Office for Family Independence determines MaineCare eligibility. OFI is a department of the Department of Health and Human Services. Income, age, family circumstances, and needs are all factors that determine eligibility. Please refer to the guidelines for MaineCare Eligibility.
The Department’s Office for Family Independence processes the MaineCare applications. To apply for services, complete recertifications or review case information, make changes or view benefit history, you can use My Maine Connection.
- By mail – MaineCare Application in Word. This is the application for all MaineCare Programs, including State Supplements, Medicare Savings Programme (Buy-In), Family Planning Services, and Prescription Help. Send the completed application to 114 CornShop Ln, Farmington, ME 4938.
- In-Person – To apply personally, visit a local DHHS OFI Office. Visit the DHHS OFI Office Finder page to find your nearest OFI office.
Child Care Subsidy Program
The Child Care Subsidy Program assists eligible families in paying for child care so that they can go to work, school or take part in a training program. Families must be eligible and meet the Child Care Subsidy Program guidelines. They also have to participate in at least one of the activities listed below.
- Work
- School
- Job training program
You can apply for Maine Child Care Subsidy in one of the following ways:
- Local DHHS offices (Office of Family Independence – OFI)
- Online at www.maine.gov/MyMaineConnection
If you are financially eligible, complete the Child Care Subsidy Program Application and submit it to the Office of Child and Family Services.
- Fax: 207-287-6308
- Email: CCSP.DHHS@maine.gov
- Mail: 2 Anthony Avenue SHS#11 Augusta, ME 04333-0011
Once you are program eligible and have a provider you choose to give you approval, payments will be made directly to your provider on your behalf.
MaineHousing’s Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
MaineHousing’s Section 8 Voucher Program provides rental assistance for income-eligible residents by paying a portion of the monthly rent to their landlords. The program will pay more rent if utilities aren’t included in the rent. A voucher may not be issued to you due to criminal activity, alcoholism, or any other reason. You may be denied vouchers if you are in debt to MaineHousing, or another housing authority.
You can use housing choice vouchers to rent any private rental property that meets certain standards of housing quality, as long as the owner accepts you. Landlords still retain their normal management rights, which include: selecting tenants, collecting rent from the tenant, managing the property, and terminating leases. Rents must not exceed the program’s limits.
You may also be eligible to receive the Program for Family Self-Sufficiency if you are receiving a Housing Choice voucher from MaineHousing and you can work.
State of Maine Grant Program
The State of Maine Grant Program, a need-based grant program, provides grants to Maine undergrad students who submit the FAFSA by the deadline of May 1. This is a need-based grant. Your expected family contribution (EFC), therefore, must not exceed the maximum EFC that has been set for any given year. The maximum EFC is 7,000 for the 2020-2021 school year.
A full-time student can receive up to $1500 in awards per year. You may qualify for a prorated award if you’re not enrolled full-time. As funds have a limit, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.
Maine Unemployment Insurance
Unemployment Insurance provides a safety net to those who have lost their job without their fault. It provides temporary financial aid to Maine’s unemployed, by offering weekly cash benefits for those who qualify.
You can receive supplemental income up to $511 per week if you meet the requirements set forth by the law.
To submit a new application or if you have filed a new application or reopened a claim within the last two weeks, visit the Government of Maine online portal. You can also file your claim by phone. Call the Unemployment Claims Centre at 1-800-593-7660.
Bottom Line: Help For Single Mothers In Maine
There is an extensive variety to choose from when it comes to asking for assistance. The federal government and nonprofits work hard to support the community they are in, the best that they can. To learn more about other assistance offered to help single mothers in the state of Maine, visit these articles:
