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Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in Maine

Last updated: August 2025 | Contact information verified: August 24, 2025
Sources: Maine Department of Health and Human Services, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, MaineHousing

⚠️ Important: Program rules, benefit amounts, and income limits change frequently. Federal programs typically update in October (SNAP) and April (HUD limits). State programs may change with budget cycles. Always verify current information with the specific agency before making decisions based on this guide.


Quick Help – Need Assistance Today?

  • Life-threatening emergency: Call 911
  • Need shelter tonight: Call 211 or visit your local DHHS office
  • Out of food: Apply for SNAP at My Maine Connection – emergency benefits in 7 days if you qualify
  • Power being shut off: Call your utility company for hardship extension, then call your local Community Action Agency immediately
  • Eviction notice: Call your Town/City Hall for General Assistance, then Pine Tree Legal at (207) 774-8211
  • Lost your job: File unemployment at maine.gov/labor/unemployment or call 1-800-593-7660
  • Need health coverage: Apply at My Maine Connection or call 1-855-797-4357
  • Pregnant or have kids under 5: Call WIC at 1-800-437-9300 for food help
  • Domestic violence: Call 1-866-834-4357 (24/7 confidential hotline)

If nothing above works: Call 211 and ask for a “warm handoff” to another agency that can help today.

If You Need Help Today

Get Food Within 24 Hours

Apply for SNAP benefits online at My Maine Connection. If your income is under $150 this month and you have less than $100 in cash, ask for “expedited SNAP” – you can get benefits within 7 days.

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under 5, call WIC at 1-800-437-9300. You can often get a same-day appointment and immediate food benefits if you qualify.

Stop a Utility Shutoff Right Now

  • Call your power company and ask for a “hardship extension” – many give you 10-30 days
  • Call your local Community Action Agency immediately for LIHEAP crisis assistance. Apply at MaineHousing.org
  • Bring your shutoff notice to the appointment

Keep Your Housing

  • Call 211 for emergency shelter and rental assistance programs
  • Contact your Town/City Hall and ask for “General Assistance” – they can issue same-day vouchers for rent, utilities, food, and medicine
  • If you received an eviction notice, call Pine Tree Legal Assistance at (207) 774-8211 for emergency legal help

Get Cash Quickly

Apply for TANF (cash assistance) at My Maine Connection. Maine provides monthly cash benefits to families with children, with amounts varying by household size.

If you lost your job, file for unemployment benefits immediately at maine.gov/labor/unemployment or 1-800-593-7660.

Reality Check: Getting help isn’t instant. SNAP takes 7-30 days. TANF takes 2-6 weeks. Plan for this delay and ask every agency about emergency funds while you wait.

Main Points You Need to Know

  • Apply the same day for multiple programs – SNAP, WIC, TANF, and MaineCare use overlapping income rules
  • Ask specifically for expedited processing when your situation is urgent
  • Keep copies of everything – take photos of documents with your phone as backup
  • Report changes immediately – income, address, or household changes within 10 days to avoid problems
  • Most programs have work requirements – understand them before you apply
  • Maine expanded Medicaid – most adults up to 138% of poverty qualify for MaineCare
  • Apply to multiple housing lists – Section 8 waiting lists can be long in some areas

Managing expectations: Maine has more generous benefits than many states, but getting stable takes months, not days. Focus on immediate needs first (food, shelter) then work on longer-term stability.

Emergency Cash and Food Programs

SNAP (Food Assistance)

What it is: Monthly benefits loaded onto an EBT card to buy groceries. Maine follows federal SNAP rules with no state supplements.

How much you can get: Maximum benefits for FY 2025 (effective October 2024): $292/month for 1 person, $536 for 2 people, $768 for 3 people, $975 for 4 people.

Income limits (USDA FNS, effective October 2024 through September 2025):

Household Size Max Monthly Gross Income Max SNAP Benefit
1 person $1,632 $292
2 people $2,208 $536
3 people $2,784 $768
4 people $3,360 $975

How to apply:

  1. Go to My Maine Connection
  2. Complete application online (takes 20-30 minutes)
  3. Upload photos of your ID, pay stubs, rent receipt, and utility bills
  4. Answer the phone when they call for your interview (usually within 1-2 weeks)

Timeline: Regular SNAP takes up to 30 days. Emergency SNAP takes 7 days if you qualify.

Documents needed:

  • Photo ID for adults
  • Social Security cards for everyone
  • Last 30 days of pay stubs (if working)
  • Rent receipt or lease
  • Recent utility bills

Reality check: Most families don’t get the maximum amount. If you work, expect roughly $200-500/month for a family of three depending on your income and deductions.

TANF (Cash Assistance)

What it is: Monthly cash assistance for families with children under 18, plus ASPIRE employment and education services. Maine also has Parents as Scholars (PaS) to let you attend college while on TANF.

How much you can get: TANF payment amounts vary by household size. Check Pine Tree Legal’s TANF Benefits Estimator Tool for current amounts, as Maine DHHS sets payment standards by household size.

Income limits: Very strict – your net monthly income must be very low to qualify.

How to apply:

  1. Apply at My Maine Connection (same application as SNAP)
  2. Attend required interview
  3. Agree to participate in ASPIRE program (work or training requirements)

Timeline: Interview within 1-2 weeks, decision within 2-4 weeks, first payment the following month if approved.

Reality check: Maine has a 60-month lifetime limit on TANF, with hardship exemptions available.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

What it is: Special food packages for pregnant women, new moms, and children under 5. Includes formula, fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, and cereal.

Income limits: Up to 185% of federal poverty level – more generous than SNAP limits.

How to apply: Call 1-800-437-9300 or contact your county health department. You’ll need an appointment for a health screening.

Timeline: Often same week if appointments are available.

Automatic qualification: If you already get SNAP, MaineCare, or TANF, you automatically meet WIC’s income requirements.

General Assistance (GA)

What it is: Municipal emergency assistance program that can issue same-day vouchers for rent, utilities, food, and medicine. Run by your town/city and funded by the state.

How to apply: Go to your Town/City Hall and ask for “General Assistance.” Bring ID, proof of income, bills, and any shutoff/eviction notices.

What it covers: Rent, utilities, food, medicine, and other basic necessities when you’re in crisis.

Health Coverage Options

MaineCare (Medicaid)

What it is: Maine’s Medicaid program providing free and low-cost health coverage.

Who qualifies: Maine provides free and low-cost health insurance to Mainers who meet certain requirements, based on household composition and income. Adults with or without minor children may qualify for MaineCare if they meet certain income guidelines based on their household size.

Income limits (approximate for 2025):

  • Adults up to 138% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Children and young adults may be able to get free MaineCare coverage at higher incomes through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
  • Pregnant persons have higher income limits and the fetus is considered a household member

How to apply: Apply at My Maine Connection or call 1-855-797-4357.

What’s covered: Doctor visits, emergency care, prescriptions, mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and transportation to medical appointments.

Housing Assistance Programs

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

What it is: Federal rental assistance where you pay 30% of your income toward rent and the program covers the rest, up to local payment standards.

How to apply:

  1. Contact MaineHousing at (207) 626-4600 or 1-800-452-4668
  2. Apply when waiting lists open (they announce this on their website)
  3. Keep your contact information updated

Reality check: Waiting lists can be long. Apply to multiple housing authorities to improve your chances.

Emergency Housing Assistance

Call 211 for:

  • Emergency shelter placement
  • Rapid rehousing (short-term rent assistance)
  • Deposit and utility connection assistance
  • Homeless prevention programs

Work and Training Support

Unemployment Benefits

How much you can get: Maine pays weekly benefits based on your past earnings, with amounts typically ranging from about $100-550 per week.

How long: Up to 26 weeks in most cases.

How to apply:

  1. File online at maine.gov/labor/unemployment
  2. Call 1-800-593-7660 if you can’t apply online
  3. You must actively look for work and report weekly to maintain benefits

Timeline: First payment typically comes 2-3 weeks after filing. There may be a one-week waiting period.

Job Training and Support

If you’re on TANF, you must participate in the ASPIRE program – work training and education services. Ask about Parents as Scholars (PaS) if you want to attend college.

Maine CareerCenters:

  • Free job search assistance
  • Skills training programs
  • Help with resumes and interviews
  • Call 1-888-457-8883 or visit mainecareercenter.gov

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Single Mom, Two Kids, Earning $2,000/Month

What she could qualify for:

  • SNAP: About $300-400/month (reduced due to income)
  • WIC: Food benefits if kids under 5
  • MaineCare for children: Likely yes
  • MaineCare for mom: Possibly, depending on exact income
  • TANF: Unlikely due to income
  • Section 8: Maybe, depends on local income limits

Example 2: Pregnant Woman, No Job, Living Alone

What she could qualify for:

  • SNAP: Expedited processing, up to $292/month
  • WIC: Food benefits during pregnancy and after birth
  • MaineCare pregnancy coverage: Yes
  • TANF: Possibly, after baby is born
  • General Assistance: For immediate needs
  • Section 8: Could apply but may face waiting lists

Example 3: Recently Lost Job, One Child, Was Earning $2,500/Month

What she could qualify for:

  • Unemployment: $200-400/week for 26 weeks
  • SNAP: About $400-500/month initially
  • MaineCare for child: Yes
  • MaineCare for mom: Likely yes under expansion
  • Emergency rent assistance: Through GA and other programs

Specific Resources for Different Situations

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

  • Apply for all programs normally – sexual orientation and gender identity don’t affect eligibility
  • MaineCare covers essential health care needs including treatment for mental health
  • If you face discrimination, document it and request a supervisor

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

  • People with disabilities may qualify for MaineCare even at higher income levels through the Working Disabled Benefit
  • SNAP has special rules for households with disabled members – higher asset limits
  • Priority for housing assistance may be available

Veteran Single Mothers

  • Contact Maine Bureau of Veterans’ Services at (207) 430-6035 for veteran-specific programs
  • Ask about expedited services through some programs
  • May qualify for HUD-VASH vouchers (housing for homeless veterans)

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

  • Income eligible immigrants from birth to aged 20 can get MaineCare regardless of their immigration status
  • Income eligible pregnant persons can get MaineCare regardless of their immigration status
  • Emergency services may be available regardless of status
  • Contact local refugee resettlement agencies for guidance

Rural Single Mothers

  • Apply online at My Maine Connection to avoid long travel
  • Some programs have mobile services that visit rural areas
  • Transportation may be provided for required appointments
  • Call CareerCenter at 1-888-457-8883 for remote job services

Single Fathers

  • All programs listed here are available to qualifying single fathers with custody
  • Don’t be discouraged if staff seem surprised – you have the same rights

Common Mistakes That Delay Your Benefits

SNAP/TANF Mistakes

  • Not answering unknown calls: DHHS often calls from blocked numbers for interviews
  • Missing the interview: Reschedule immediately if you can’t make it
  • Not requesting expedited SNAP: Specifically ask if you qualify for 7-day processing
  • Incomplete documents: Use My Maine Connection to upload everything

Housing Mistakes

  • Applying to only one housing authority: Apply wherever you’re willing to live
  • Not updating contact information: You’ll lose your place if they can’t reach you
  • Waiting for “perfect” timing: Apply even when things seem stable

General Mistakes

  • Not keeping copies: Always save confirmation numbers and emails
  • Not reporting changes: Income or address changes must be reported within 10 days
  • Giving up too quickly: If denied, you can often appeal or reapply with more documentation

When Programs Don’t Work – Plan B Options

If SNAP is denied or delayed:

  • Contact local food banks through 211maine.org
  • Ask churches about emergency food assistance
  • Visit community meal sites and food pantries

If housing assistance isn’t available:

  • Negotiate payment plan with landlord in writing
  • Ask General Assistance for emergency rent help
  • Contact domestic violence shelters if that applies (they help all women in crisis)

If utilities are being shut off:

  • Ask utility company for medical protection if anyone has health conditions
  • Contact local churches and charities for one-time bill assistance
  • Apply for LIHEAP through your local Community Action Agency

If you can’t find work:

  • Consider gig work (delivery services, TaskRabbit) for immediate income
  • Ask temp agencies for same-week work
  • Use Maine CareerCenter services for job search help

Emergency mindset: When you’re in crisis, accept help that gets you through today. You can make longer-term plans once you’re stable.

Timeline Expectations – Be Realistic

Week 1

  • Apply for SNAP, TANF, MaineCare online
  • Call WIC for appointment
  • File unemployment if applicable
  • Contact 211 for emergency assistance

Week 2-3

  • Attend SNAP/TANF interview
  • WIC appointment and first benefits
  • First unemployment payment (if approved)
  • Emergency assistance decisions

Month 2-3

  • Regular SNAP benefits begin
  • TANF decision and first payment
  • MaineCare coverage starts
  • Begin required work activities

Month 6+

  • Review and recertify for ongoing programs
  • Housing assistance applications may start moving
  • Job training programs may be available

Common Questions Single Moms Ask

“Can I get help if I work?”

Yes, income limits vary by program. SNAP and WIC have higher income limits than TANF. Working may actually help you qualify for programs like child care assistance.

“What if I don’t have all the documents?”

Apply anyway with what you have. Upload additional documents later. Ask about “good cause” exceptions if you’re fleeing domestic violence.

“How much can I earn and keep benefits?”

Each program is different. SNAP reduces gradually as income increases. TANF has strict limits. WIC has more generous income limits. Report all changes within 10 days.

“Can I get help if I live with family?”

Depends on whether you buy and prepare food together for SNAP. Housing programs look at your individual income. Each program has different household definition rules.

“What if I have a car payment?”

Car payments don’t usually count as deductions for SNAP. Student loans in deferment don’t count. Child support payments you make DO count as deductions.

“How long can I get help?”

  • SNAP: As long as you meet requirements (recertify every 6-12 months)
  • TANF: 60-month lifetime limit with hardship exemptions
  • WIC: Until child turns 5, or 1 year postpartum
  • Unemployment: 26 weeks maximum
  • Section 8: No time limit if you follow program rules

“What if I’m denied?”

You can appeal most decisions within 10 days. Get help from Pine Tree Legal Assistance at (207) 774-8211. Sometimes it’s just missing paperwork.

Resources Directory

Statewide Helplines

  • 211 Maine: Dial 211 or visit 211maine.org
  • Maine DHHS: 1-855-797-4357
  • MaineCare Member Services: 1-866-690-5585
  • WIC: 1-800-437-9300
  • Unemployment: 1-800-593-7660
  • MaineHousing: (207) 626-4600 or 1-800-452-4668
  • Pine Tree Legal Assistance: (207) 774-8211

Crisis Support

  • Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-866-834-4357
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • Maine Crisis Hotline: 1-888-568-1112

Online Applications

Important Warnings and Reality Checks

About Benefit Amounts

Maine expanded Medicaid and has relatively generous benefits compared to some states, but don’t expect these programs alone to solve financial problems. Think of them as a foundation while you build stability.

About Waiting Times

Everything takes longer than you want. Even expedited SNAP can take 7 days. Housing assistance often has waiting lists. Plan accordingly and don’t rely on just one program.

About Work Requirements

Most programs require you to work or participate in job training. Understand what’s expected before you apply and follow through on commitments.

About Reporting Changes

All programs monitor for changes aggressively. Report income changes immediately. The penalties for not reporting include repaying benefits and possible disqualification.

Resumen en Español – Ayuda de Emergencia para Madres Solteras en Maine

Ayuda Inmediata (Llame Hoy)

  • Emergencia: Llame 911
  • Necesita refugio: Llame 211
  • Sin comida: Solicite SNAP en My Maine Connection – beneficios en 7 días si califica
  • Van a cortar la luz: Llame a su compañía eléctrica, luego a su Agencia de Acción Comunitaria
  • Perdió su trabajo: Solicite desempleo en maine.gov/labor/unemployment
  • Embarazada o niños menores de 5 años: Llame WIC al 1-800-437-9300

Programas Principales

SNAP (Cupones de Comida): Hasta $975/mes para familia de 4. Solicite en My Maine Connection. TANF (Ayuda en Efectivo): Efectivo mensual para familias con niños. Cantidades varían por tamaño de familia. WIC: Comida especial para embarazadas y niños menores de 5. MaineCare: Cobertura médica gratuita o de bajo costo. Section 8: Ayuda con la renta.

Números Importantes

  • DHHS Maine: 1-855-797-4357 (servicios de traducción disponibles)
  • MaineCare: 1-866-690-5585
  • WIC: 1-800-437-9300
  • Desempleo: 1-800-593-7660
  • Servicios Legales: (207) 774-8211

Nota: Los niños ciudadanos estadounidenses pueden calificar aunque los padres sean indocumentados.

  • Traducido por inteligencia artificial. Para información oficial, consulte las fuentes en inglés listadas en esta guía.
  • Translated by artificial intelligence. For official information, consult the English sources listed in this guide.

About This Guide

Compiled by ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Maine Department of Health and Human Services, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and MaineHousing.

This resource is produced following our editorial standards using only official government sources and established nonprofit organizations. While carefully researched and regularly updated, this guide is not affiliated with any government agency and is not a substitute for official agency guidance.

Last verified: August 2025
Next review: April 2026

Sources:

Disclaimer

Program rules, benefit amounts, and income limits change frequently. This guide provides general information as of August 2025, but you should always verify current requirements with the specific agency before applying. Contact information and program availability can change without notice.

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For legal questions about benefits, appeals, or eligibility, contact  your legal assistance contact point.

The information in this guide comes from official government sources, but errors can occur. Always check with the agency directly for the most current and accurate information about your specific situation.

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