Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Maine

Last updated: September 2025

Quick Help Box

• If you or your child are in immediate danger: Call 911.
• For a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts: Maine Crisis Line 1-888-568-1112 or 988. (maine.gov)
• To report child abuse or neglect: 1-800-452-1999. (maine.gov)
• Find local help of any kind fast: Dial 211, or text your ZIP to 898-211, or email info@211maine.org. (211maine.org)
• Apply for food, cash, or MaineCare benefits online: My Maine Connection at the Office for Family Independence and phone support 1-855-797-4357. (maine.gov)

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Emergency First Steps in Maine

• Call these emergency supports now if needed: see the table below for direct numbers and what each line does.
• If you need an immediate place to stay, fuel, or essential meds: General Assistance is run by your town office. If the office is closed or you cannot reach them, call the state GA hotline 1-800-442-6003. (maine.gov)
• If you cannot get to medical care for your child: MaineCare can arrange non‑emergency medical transportation. Call your regional broker as listed below and schedule at least two business days ahead. For general questions call MaineCare Member Services 1-800-977-6740. (maine.gov)

Emergency and Crisis Contacts in Maine

Sources: Maine DHHS hotlines, Suicide Prevention Program, 211 Maine, Sweetser Warm Line, OFI. (maine.gov, 211maine.org, sweetser.org)

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How to Use This Guide

• Start here: use the quick links and tables to get applications in today.
• Keep your paperwork together: see the Application Checklist below for what to gather.
• Expect some delays and waitlists: this guide gives realistic timelines and a Plan B after every section.
• Everything here uses official Maine and federal sources: links are descriptive and take you directly to the right page.

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Food Assistance That Works Now

SNAP Food Supplement in Maine

• Most important action: Apply now with OFI online or by phone 1-855-797-4357. If your income is very low or you have extremely high housing costs, ask about expedited processing. (maine.gov)
• Who may qualify: Maine looks at your household size, income, and certain expenses, with special medical and shelter deductions for households that include a person with a disability. Maine’s current income screen for broad‑based categorical eligibility uses 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. (maine.gov)
• Current maximum SNAP amounts through September 30, 2025: see table.

Source: Maine DHHS SNAP page. (maine.gov)

• Stretch your SNAP at markets and small stores: As of September 2025, Maine Harvest Bucks gives a 50% bonus at most participating farmers’ markets and farm stands, and Farm Fresh Rewards gives 50% off eligible produce at participating groceries and co‑ops. Check each site for locations and current match rules. (mainefarmersmarkets.org, gsfb.org)
• Reality check: Benefit levels are tight, and interviews plus verification can take time. Save and upload clear photos of paystubs, rent, and childcare bills to speed it up.
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call OFI 1-855-797-4357, ask for a supervisor call‑back, or contact 211 for food pantries while you wait. If you get a denial and disagree, you can request a fair hearing from OFI.

WIC for Pregnant People and Children under 5

• Most important action: Apply with Maine WIC and download the WICShopper app to find clinics and approved foods.
• Monthly fruit and vegetable amounts right now: children $26\ast \ast ,pregnantandpostpartum\ast \ast$47, fully or partially breast/chestfeeding $52. (www1.maine.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic about temporary documentation options and scheduling flexibility; contact 211 to locate the nearest clinic and food banks.

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Cash Help and Emergency Bills

TANF for Families with Children

• Most important action: Apply through My Maine Connection or call OFI 1-855-797-4357. If you only need a short burst of help to keep or get a job, ask specifically for Alternative Aid or Emergency Assistance. (maine.gov)
• Current TANF maximum monthly grants in Maine, FFY 2025: effective October 2024, Maine increased grants by about 20% and ties future increases to the SSI cost‑of‑living adjustment. See table. (maine.gov, legislature.maine.gov)

Source: DHHS TANF Rule Appendix chart FFY 2025. (maine.gov)

• Add‑ons you should know: Transitional Transportation can reimburse mileage up to $20 per day and follows the State mileage rate, with a higher rate for individuals with disabilities. Effective January 1, 2025, the mileage rates increased. (maine.gov)
• Reality check: Expect paperwork and work‑activity requirements; disability accommodations are available. Ask for good cause or reasonable accommodations if your child’s care needs affect participation.
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider General Assistance at your town office for rent, heat, or medicine vouchers, and ask OFI about Parents as Scholars if school is your path to a better job. GA hotline 1-800-442-6003; Parents as Scholars is authorized in state law. (maine.gov, legislature.maine.gov)

General Assistance through Your Municipality

• Most important action: Apply in person at your city or town office. If closed or unreachable, call GA hotline 1-800-442-6003. (maine.gov)
• What it can cover: rent, room rent or temporary lodging, fuel and utilities, necessary medical and dental care, prescriptions, some medical equipment, and burial costs. (maine.gov)
• Recent policy notes: Emergency rule updates limit extended hotel/motel aid to 30 days above local budgeted maximums in a 12‑month period. (maine.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the GA hotline, ask for the regional field examiner, and contact Pine Tree Legal Assistance if you are denied and believe you qualify.

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Health Coverage for Children with Disabilities

MaineCare for Kids and Youth up to Age 21

• Most important action: Apply now—Maine covers kids and youth in families with income up to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level, and most premiums were eliminated. (maine.gov)
• Monthly income examples used by OFI in 2025: household of 1 $3,979\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$5,377, 3 $6,775\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$8,172. If you’re pregnant, add your expected baby to household size. (maine.gov)
• What it covers for kids: doctor visits, therapies, medications, hospital care, in‑home supports, behavioral health services, and more. (maine.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: If family income is too high but your child has a significant medical condition, ask OFI about Katie Beckett, described below.

Katie Beckett Option in Maine

• What it is: a way for children with serious health conditions to qualify for full MaineCare based on the child’s medical needs and the child’s own income/resources, not the parent’s. (maine.gov)
• How to move forward: Review the Katie Beckett Eligibility Roadmap, talk with your child’s specialist about documentation, and apply through OFI. (maine.gov)
• Reality check: Approvals can take time, and you will need detailed medical records. Keep copies of hospitalizations, specialist notes, therapy evaluations, and school IEPs.
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Reconsider standard MaineCare if income changed, or contact the Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs Care Coordinator at 207-287-5357 for help navigating options. (maine.gov)

Children’s Behavioral Health & Developmental Services You Can Ask For

• Targeted Case Management: helps you coordinate services and navigate providers. Ask your provider or call the Maine Crisis Line if you need immediate linkage. (maine.gov)
• Section 28 Rehabilitative and Community Support: in‑home skill‑building for kids with autism, intellectual disability, or developmental disability. Referrals go through KEPRO; a case manager can help. (maine.gov)
• Home and Community Treatment (HCT): in‑home clinical therapy to stabilize behaviors and prevent higher‑level care. (maine.gov)
• Why this matters right now: Maine is under a federal settlement to improve community‑based behavioral health for children, which is increasing access and reducing unnecessary institutional stays. If you have been stuck on waitlists, politely reference the settlement and ask for updated options. (apnews.com)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your Targeted Case Manager for alternative providers, ask your school district about school‑based services, and, if safety is a concern, call the Maine Crisis Line.

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Transportation to Medical Appointments

• Most important action: If your child has MaineCare, call your regional broker to schedule rides or mileage reimbursement at least two business days ahead. For general questions call MaineCare Member Services 1-800-977-6740. (maine.gov)
• Broker phone examples by region: Aroostook and nearby areas 1-855-608-5174; Washington & Hancock 1-855-608-5176; Cumberland 1-855-608-5178; Androscoggin/Franklin/Oxford 1-855-608-5180; York and parts of Oxford 1-877-659-1302. Urgent trips can be considered when medically necessary. (mymodivcare.com)
• School‑related services: If transportation is written into your child’s IEP or IFSP, the school/provider should arrange it with the broker. (maine.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Document missed rides, ask for a supervisor at the broker, and report ongoing problems to MaineCare Member Services and your case manager.

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School Rights and Early Intervention

• Most important action: If your child is birth to age 5, refer to Child Development Services at 877-770-8883. Ages 3–5 also receive special education through CDS. For ages 5–20, request a school evaluation in writing for an IEP or 504 plan. (maine.gov)
• Know the rules that protect your child: Maine uses Chapter 101 MUSER with full IDEA rights. You can use mediation, state complaints, or a due process hearing if needed. The state dispute resolution team can guide you. Contacts include 207-624-6849 and 207-624-6646. (maine.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Maine DOE Office of Special Services for dispute resolution options, and connect with Maine Parent Federation for peer support and advocacy coaching. (maine.gov)

Early Intervention and School Contacts

Sources: Maine DOE CDS and dispute resolution pages. (maine.gov)

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Child Care You Can Afford

• Most important action: Apply for Maine’s Child Care Affordability Program if you’re working, in school or training, or a retired legal guardian. Household income up to 125% of Maine’s median income may qualify. Call 1-877-680-5866 or 207-624-7999. (maine.gov)
• What you pay: sliding copay; recent rules cap copays at 7% of income for families under 85% of State Median Income and 10% for 85–125% SMI, and the state is moving to prospective, enrollment‑based payments to stabilize care. Copays are waived under 30% SMI. (maine.gov)
• Children with special needs: state law allows higher reimbursement rates for children with special needs so providers can accept and support your child. (legislature.maine.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about using a relative provider while you wait, or pair the program with TANF Transitional Child Care if you recently left TANF. (maine.gov)

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Housing and Utilities

• Most important action: If rent is unaffordable or unstable, apply for a Housing Choice Voucher with MaineHousing. Use the online application or call (866) 357‑4853 or (207) 624‑5789 for help. Search subsidized apartment listings by county if you need an alternative while on the voucher waitlist. (mainehousing.org, mainehousing.org)
• Heat and electricity help:
  • HEAP helps with heating costs. Call MaineHousing (207‑626‑4600) or your local Community Action Agency to apply.
  • LIAP provides an electric bill credit for income‑qualified households.
  • AMP can forgive up to $500 per month of past‑due electric arrears for eligible customers who make on‑time payments during the program. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Use General Assistance for emergency rent or utilities while you pursue these longer‑term options, and contact the PUC Consumer Assistance Division 800-452-4699 if your utility issue is not resolving. (maine.gov)

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Disability Income for Children

• Most important action: If your child’s condition seriously limits daily functioning and your household meets income/resource rules, apply for SSI for your child. The 2025 federal SSI rate is $967 per month for an eligible individual, with possible small Maine state supplements depending on living arrangement. Apply with SSA and ask your pediatric specialists to supply detailed medical records. (ssa.gov)
• Work and SSI basics that affect teens: 2025 Student Earned‑Income Exclusion lets certain student wages be excluded up to $2,350permonth\ast \ast cappedat\ast \ast$9,460 per year; SGA thresholds are $1,620permonth\ast \ast (non‑blind)and\ast \ast$2,700 (blind). These numbers matter for older teens and young adults. (ssa.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑apply with better medical evidence, keep a symptom diary, and consider help from an experienced advocate. If denied due to income deeming, revisit Katie Beckett to secure MaineCare even without SSI. (maine.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• OFI benefits line: 1-855-797-4357.
• General Assistance hotline: 1-800-442-6003.
• Maine Crisis Line: 1-888-568-1112 or 988.
• 211 Maine: Dial 211 or text ZIP to 898-211.
• MaineCare Member Services: 1-800-977-6740.
• CDS referral (Early Intervention): 877-770-8883.
• MaineHousing HCV help: (866) 357-4853.
• WIC amounts: children $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, breastfeeding $52.
• SNAP max benefit for 4: $975.
• TANF max for 3, adult included: $895.
• SSI 2025 individual rate: $967.
• NET broker examples: Aroostook 1-855-608-5174, Cumberland 1-855-608-5178.
• Farmers’ market SNAP incentive: 50% bonus at most markets.

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Application Checklist

• Identity and residency: photo ID, Social Security numbers or application receipts, lease or letter from landlord.
• Income: latest paystubs, benefits letters, child support orders, self‑employment logs.
• Expenses that raise benefits: rent and utilities, child care invoices, unreimbursed medical costs for your child’s disability.
• Health and disability: doctor letters, therapy evaluations, IEP or IFSP, hospital discharge summaries, medication list.
• Banking: most recent statements for checking/savings or a note if you do not have accounts.
• Plan to upload: scan or snap clear photos, label each file with your name + program + date.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing interviews or phone calls: save OFI 1-855-797-4357 as a contact and always return calls quickly.
• Not reporting medical or child care expenses: for SNAP and TANF, these can increase your benefit.
• Skipping the Katie Beckett option: even if over income for standard MaineCare, your child may still get coverage.
• Assuming the school will “handle it”: put IEP requests in writing and keep copies.
• Not appealing decisions: denials can often be fixed with additional documents or a simple clarification.

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: MaineCare and OFI programs are open regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. For name or gender updates on records, ask OFI for language access and accommodation help, and use 211 to find LGBTQ‑friendly clinics and support groups. (maine.gov, 211maine.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: request reasonable accommodations on TANF work activities and program appointments. Ask providers to note functional limitations that support Katie Beckett, Section 28, or HCT eligibility. (maine.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: use 211 to locate VA‑connected counseling, housing supports, and transportation. MaineCare and OFI benefits can coordinate with VA care. (211maine.org)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: you may qualify for some benefits depending on status; ask OFI about qualified non‑citizen rules for MaineCare kids and WIC, and use language access rights when you apply. (maine.gov)
• Tribal citizens: coordinate with your tribal government for education and health supports and apply for state programs as well; IEP and MaineCare rights apply statewide. (maine.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: leverage MaineCare transportation, telehealth, and mobile crisis support via the Maine Crisis Line; ask about case management to coordinate services across county lines. (maine.gov)
• Single fathers: most programs are gender‑neutral; if you are the custodial parent, you can use the same benefits and supports listed here. (maine.gov)
• Language access: DHHS must provide free interpreter services on request; ask for this when calling OFI, MaineCare, or CDS. (maine.gov)

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Resources by Region

• Child Development Services regional offices: find your local CDS site and call directly for screenings and services. (maine.gov)
• DHHS district offices: walk‑in help is available at many locations; if you cannot visit, call OFI 1-855-797-4357 for case updates or card replacements. (maine.gov)
• MaineHousing subsidized apartments: download county lists and contact property managers to apply while on the voucher waitlist. (mainehousing.org)
• Community Action Agencies: apply for HEAP, LIAP, and other supports tied to utilities. The PUC and Governor’s Energy Office pages link to your local agency. (www1.maine.gov, maine.gov)

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Program Tables You Can Scan Fast

MaineCare for Kids and Youth

Sources: MaineCare rule update and OFI income chart; OMS children’s coverage. (maine.gov)

SNAP and Nutrition Incentives

Sources: DHHS SNAP page; Maine Harvest Bucks; Farm Fresh Rewards. (maine.gov, mainefarmersmarkets.org, gsfb.org)

TANF Cash Assistance

Sources: Adopted TANF rule and chart for FFY 2025; OFI TANF overview for application methods. (maine.gov)

WIC Monthly Fruit and Vegetable Amounts

Source: Maine CDC WIC program. (www1.maine.gov)

MaineCare Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation Brokers

Source: Modivcare Maine regional contacts; MaineCare NET overview. (mymodivcare.com, maine.gov)

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Real‑World Tips

• Document everything: names, dates, and what was said. Ask for a case note when a promise is made by phone.
• Bring backup: a short one‑page summary of your child’s diagnoses, meds, providers, and school plan speeds many applications.
• Use case management: if offered, say yes—a Targeted Case Manager can chase authorizations and waitlists.
• Ask for accommodations: if caregiving limits your time windows, request remote interviews, flexible deadlines, or good‑cause exemptions.

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What We Looked For and Filled In

• Content gaps we closed: exact TANF grant amounts, SNAP max benefits, WIC dollar amounts, MaineCare 300% FPL change, Katie Beckett steps, NET phone numbers, GA hotline, utility programs like LIAP/AMP, and who to call when things stall. We linked straight to official program pages so you can act, not hunt. (maine.gov, www1.maine.gov, mymodivcare.com)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

Our sourcing approach: Official Maine DHHS, Maine DOE, MaineHousing, USDA‑related, and SSA pages, with direct application portals and phone contacts. See citations after each section.

Our standards: We follow our Editorial Standards and only use official government and established nonprofit sources, verify links at publication, and update quickly when policies change. (maine.gov)

Verification window: Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Found an error or update: Email info@asinglemother.org.

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Disclaimer

Information purpose: This guide is informational and not legal advice or an agency decision.

Policy changes happen fast: Benefit amounts, income limits, and procedures can change; always confirm on the official links provided before you act.

Your privacy and security: Do not email full SSNs or bank numbers; use official portals. We keep our website security current and remove broken links quickly.

If you need a safe plan now: Use the Maine Crisis Line 1-888-568-1112, 988, or 211 to locate emergency help immediately. (maine.gov, 211maine.org)

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Sources

• SNAP eligibility and amounts in Maine: Maine DHHS OFI SNAP page. (maine.gov)
• WIC cash value benefit amounts: Maine CDC WIC Food Benefits. (www1.maine.gov)
• MaineCare children’s eligibility at 300% FPL and how to apply: MaineCare rule update and OFI Health Care pages; OMS Children page. (maine.gov)
• Katie Beckett option details: OCFS and OMS resources. (maine.gov)
• Children’s behavioral health services menus: OCFS/OBH program pages. (maine.gov)
• DOJ settlement context: Associated Press coverage. (apnews.com)
• TANF grant table and program rules: DHHS TANF Rule Appendix and OFI TANF overview. (maine.gov)
• General Assistance program and hotline: OFI GA. (maine.gov)
• MaineCare NET transportation and Modivcare region numbers: OMS NET page and Modivcare Maine. (maine.gov, mymodivcare.com)
• SSI 2025 Federal Benefit Rate and work thresholds: SSA FBR and Red Book. (ssa.gov)
• MaineHousing Housing Choice Voucher and subsidized listings: MaineHousing program pages and contacts. (mainehousing.org, mainehousing.org)
• Utility help LIAP and AMP, consumer assistance: Maine PUC and OPA updates; Governor’s Energy Office HEAP resources. (www1.maine.gov, maine.gov)
• Maine Harvest Bucks and Farm Fresh Rewards: program pages. (mainefarmersmarkets.org, gsfb.org)
• CDS contacts and DOE dispute resolution: DOE pages. (maine.gov)
• Hotlines and 211: DHHS hotlines; 211 Maine. (maine.gov, 211maine.org)

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Bold reminder: All phone numbers, dollar amounts, and key deadlines are in bold to help you scan quickly.

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🏛️More Maine Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Maine

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery