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housing assistance in maine

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Maine

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Maine

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

  • Emergency housing assistance through General Assistance is required by Maine law when facing homelessness
  • Eviction Prevention Program helps renters pay past due and future rent for up to 12 months (pilot program through October 2026)
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) serve over 3,800 Maine households but have waiting lists of 12-24 months
  • HEAP energy assistance provides up to $1,012 for heating bills based on income and household size
  • New 3-month limit proposed for General Assistance emergency housing (pending legislative approval)
  • Income limits vary by program – most serve families earning 50-80% of area median income
  • MaineHousing First Home Program offers low down payment mortgages for first-time buyers

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 Maine immediately for emergency shelter and assistance referrals.

Behind on rent and have eviction notice? Apply for Maine’s Eviction Prevention Program – provides up to 12 months of rent assistance.

Can’t pay heating bills? Contact your local Community Action Program for emergency heating assistance through HEAP.

Need emergency shelter? Towns are legally required to provide emergency housing assistance through General Assistance – contact your local municipal office.

In danger from domestic violence? Maine Statewide Domestic Abuse Helpline: (866) 834-4357 or (800) 437-1220 for Deaf/Hard of Hearing.

Emergency Housing Assistance

General Assistance (Municipal Emergency Aid)

General Assistance is Maine’s safety net program administered by towns and cities. By state law, homelessness is considered an emergency, and municipalities must provide assistance for emergency housing.

What it covers:

  • Emergency shelter, motel, or hotel costs
  • First month’s rent and security deposits
  • Utility deposits and emergency utility payments
  • Basic necessities when facing emergency

Important change coming: Governor Mills has proposed limiting General Assistance housing support to 3 months per year. This proposal is pending legislative approval and would include hardship exemptions.

How to apply: Visit your local municipal office in person. Each town administers its own General Assistance program.

Reality check: General Assistance spending has increased dramatically since the pandemic – from $13 million in 2019 to $43 million in 2023. The proposed time limits reflect state budget pressures, so don’t delay if you need emergency help.

Eviction Prevention Program (EPP)

Maine’s Eviction Prevention Program is a pilot program that opened in October 2024 and runs through October 2026. It’s funded with $18 million from the state and administered by MaineHousing with the Quality Housing Coalition.

What it covers:

  • Past-due rent payments
  • Up to 12 months of future rent assistance
  • Payments made directly to landlords

Priority given to:

  1. Households with court-ordered eviction notice (forcible entry and detainer)
  2. Households with notice to quit

Current status: The program went on a waitlist in November 2024 and stopped accepting new applications on June 27, 2025.

How to apply: Applications are currently closed, but contact Quality Housing Coalition at (207) 274-1240 for information about future availability.

2-1-1 Maine Emergency Resources

2-1-1 Maine provides 24/7 referrals to emergency assistance including shelters, emergency rental help, and crisis services throughout the state.

Call: 2-1-1 or visit 211maine.org

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

MaineHousing’s Section 8 program helps over 3,800 low-income Maine households each month. Families typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder up to Fair Market Rent limits.

Income Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Section 8, household income must not exceed 50% of Area Median Income (AMI), with preference often given to households earning below 30% of AMI.

Priority groups receive preference:

  • Families experiencing homelessness
  • Families with disabilities
  • Elderly households
  • Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Application Process

Maine Centralized Waiting List: Maine operates a centralized waiting list where one application applies to all 20 participating housing authorities statewide.

  1. Apply online at Maine.AffordableHousing.com
  2. Provide required documentation (ID, Social Security cards, income verification)
  3. Wait for eligibility interview (when your name reaches the top)
  4. Receive voucher and attend briefing session
  5. Find qualifying rental unit within 60 days
  6. Pass housing quality standards inspection

Reality check: Maine faces a severe shortage of affordable housing, with only 52 affordable units available for every 100 extremely low-income households. Waiting times average 12-24 months, and many housing authorities periodically close their waiting lists due to high demand.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

These are the maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in major Maine areas:

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Portland-South Portland $1,247 $1,544 $2,031 $2,502
Bangor $742 $928 $1,289 $1,547
Lewiston-Auburn $731 $928 $1,289 $1,547
Non-Metro Areas $638 $794 $1,115 $1,330

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents 2025

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income, and some properties include utilities.

To find your local housing authority: Visit MaineHousing’s Local Housing Authority directory.

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Rural areas of Maine may qualify for USDA programs offering homeownership opportunities.

Section 502 Direct Loans

USDA Section 502 loans help low-income families buy homes in rural areas with no down payment required.

Key features:

  • No down payment required for eligible applicants
  • Income must be at or below low-income limits for the area
  • Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area
  • Up to 33 years (38 years for very low-income applicants)

Contact Maine USDA Rural Development: (207) 990-9160

Utility Assistance Programs

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

HEAP helps qualified homeowners and renters pay for heating costs. Benefits include fuel cost assistance, emergency fuel delivery, and energy-related repairs.

Income Eligibility (2025-2026 Season)

Maximum annual household income based on family size:

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $35,336
2 people $46,209
3 people $57,082
4 people $67,955
5 people $78,827

Source: MaineHousing HEAP Income Guidelines

Benefit Amounts

HEAP provides varying benefit amounts based on household size, income, and heating costs:

  • Regular heating assistance: $88 minimum, $1,012 maximum
  • Crisis assistance: Up to $800 for heating emergencies

Application period: August 1, 2025 through May 29, 2026 or until funds are exhausted.

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Program agency. Many agencies allow online applications.

Reality check: Some Community Action Programs have started waitlists due to high demand – Penquis stopped processing new applications at 5:00 PM on March 28, 2025. Apply as early as possible when the season opens.

Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP)

ECIP provides emergency heating fuel assistance for households with extremely low fuel supplies.

Application period: November 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026 Requirement: Must first apply for regular HEAP benefits

Low Income Assistance Plan (LIAP)

Maine’s electric utilities offer rate discounts to HEAP-eligible customers. Contact your utility company to apply:

Homeownership Programs

MaineHousing First Home Program

MaineHousing offers first-time homebuyers 30-year fixed-rate mortgages with low down payments.

Program features:

  • Conventional, FHA, VA, or USDA loan options
  • Down payment and closing cost assistance through “Advantage” program
  • Payment protection if you become unemployed (Maine HOPE program)
  • Income limits range from $97,900 to $146,625 depending on area

Definition of first-time buyer: Haven’t owned a home in the past three years.

Maine Homeowner Assistance Fund

Available for homeowners struggling with mortgage payments due to COVID-19 related financial hardships. Provides up to $50,000 in assistance.

Contact: MaineHousing at (207) 626-4600

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Family Crisis Services (Portland area)

Provides transitional housing and supportive services for families experiencing homelessness.

Tedford Housing (Brunswick area)

Offers emergency shelter and transitional housing with wraparound services.

Domestic Violence Housing

Maine Statewide Domestic Abuse Helpline: (866) 834-4357

Safe housing options include:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Safety planning and support services

Mental Health and Substance Use Housing

Maine DHHS Office of Behavioral Health operates two rental subsidy programs:

Bridge Rental Assistance Program (BRAP): Assists clients with serious mental illness in obtaining transitional housing. Clients contribute 40% of income toward rent.

Permanent Supportive Housing Program (PSHP): Federal HUD program providing rental assistance and services to households with disabilities.

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Maine has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, supportive resources include:

Local support:

  • EqualityMaine: Advocacy and resource referrals
  • Contact 2-1-1 and specifically request LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Tribal-Specific Resources

Maine is home to four federally recognized Wabanaki tribal nations: the Penobscot Nation, Passamaquoddy Tribe, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, and Mi’kmaq Nation.

Penobscot Nation: (207) 817-7400

Passamaquoddy Tribe:

Additional tribal resources:

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including transportation barriers and fewer service providers.

Specialized support:

  • USDA Rural Development programs offer homeownership opportunities
  • Community Action Programs provide outreach services in rural areas
  • Some agencies offer transportation vouchers for essential appointments
  • Telehealth services available for support and counseling

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for gas cards or transportation vouchers
  • 2-1-1 Maine can provide referrals to transportation assistance programs

Single Fathers

Single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access all the same programs described in this guide.

Additional resources:

  • All housing assistance programs are available regardless of gender
  • National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources
  • Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups

Resources by Region

Greater Portland Area

Opportunity Alliance

  • HEAP utility assistance
  • Emergency rental assistance
  • General services
  • Phone: (207) 200-1000

Portland Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing programs
  • Address: 14 Baxter Boulevard, Portland, ME 04101

Quality Housing Coalition

  • Rental assistance programs
  • Housing search assistance
  • Phone: (207) 274-1240

Central Maine (Augusta/Waterville area)

Kennebec Valley Community Action Program

  • HEAP assistance
  • Emergency rental help
  • Food and basic needs assistance
  • Phone: (207) 859-1500

MaineHousing (State Office)

Northern Maine (Bangor/Aroostook area)

Penquis

  • HEAP assistance for Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Knox counties
  • Housing assistance programs
  • Phone: (207) 973-3500

Aroostook County Action Program

Western Maine (Lewiston/Oxford County)

Community Concepts

  • HEAP assistance
  • Emergency rental help
  • Supportive services
  • Phone: (207) 333-6200

Down East Maine (Washington County)

Sunrise County Economic Council

  • HEAP assistance
  • Emergency programs
  • Economic development services
  • Phone: (207) 255-0983

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Maine?

According to current data from Maine housing authorities, waiting times vary by location:

  • Urban areas (Portland, Bangor): 18-36 months
  • Rural areas: 12-24 months
  • Statewide average: 12-24 months

Many housing authorities close waiting lists when they become too long. Priority goes to families experiencing homelessness, those with disabilities, and elderly households.

Can I get help if I’m working full-time?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than work requirements. For example, a working single mother with two children can typically earn up to about $46,000-$68,000 annually (depending on the area) and still qualify for very low-income housing programs.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8 vouchers?

Maine doesn’t have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords or search HUD’s housing database.

Can I combine different housing assistance programs?

Yes, you can often layer different programs. For example, you might receive Section 8 rental assistance, HEAP for utilities, and SNAP for food – as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements.

What if I have bad credit or a past eviction?

Emergency programs like General Assistance typically don’t require credit checks. For Section 8, housing authorities may consider past issues but often allow explanations and evidence of changed circumstances.

How do I prove income if I’m paid cash or work gig jobs?

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get written statements from anyone who pays you, even for cash work. Your local housing counselor can help document irregular income properly.

What if I’m undocumented?

Most federal housing programs require legal status, but emergency assistance through Community Action Agencies may be available regardless of immigration status. Some local programs also provide help. Contact 2-1-1 for guidance.

What happens if my income increases while I’m receiving assistance?

Most programs conduct annual income reviews. If your income rises above program limits, you’ll typically have a phase-out period or may transition to other housing options. Increased income is actually a positive step toward independence.

How do I appeal if I’m denied assistance?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice explaining how to request a hearing. Don’t miss the deadline – usually 10-14 days from the denial date.

What should I do if I can’t afford heat this winter?

Apply for HEAP as soon as applications open on August 1st. If you have a heating emergency, call your local Community Action Program immediately and explain you need crisis assistance – you should receive help within 48 hours if eligible.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for.

Fake rental listings: Be wary of rentals requiring money before you see the property or that seem too good to be true.

“Guaranteed” housing: No legitimate service can guarantee housing assistance or move you to the front of waiting lists.

Common Challenges You Should Expect

Funding limitations: All programs have more applicants than available help. Apply to multiple programs and as early as possible.

Extensive paperwork: Gather required documents in advance. Missing paperwork causes most delays.

Transportation barriers: Many appointments require in-person visits. Ask about mobile services or transportation assistance.

Childcare during appointments: Some offices don’t allow children during meetings. Ask about childcare assistance or virtual options.

Tips for Success

Apply broadly: Don’t wait for denial from one program before applying to others.

Stay organized: Keep copies of all applications, documents, and communications in one place.

Follow up regularly: Call agencies monthly to check application status and provide any additional information.

Be completely honest: Programs are designed to help people in difficult situations. Accurate information helps staff provide the best assistance.

Get professional help: Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance navigating the system.

Additional Resources

Maine State Agencies

Maine Department of Health and Human Services

Maine Department of Economic and Community Development

  • Housing Opportunity Program
  • Community development initiatives
  • Phone: (207) 624-9800

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

USDA Rural Development – Maine

Legal Aid and Tenant Rights

Pine Tree Legal Assistance

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense and tenant rights
  • Phone: (207) 774-8211
  • Website: ptla.org

Maine Equal Justice

Financial Counseling and Education

Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Maine

  • Free financial counseling and budgeting help
  • Credit repair assistance
  • Phone: (800) 498-9320

HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agencies

  • Free homebuyer education and counseling
  • Rental assistance application help
  • Find local agencies: hud.gov/findacounselor

About this Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Maine guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Maine Department of Health and Human Services, MaineHousing, HUD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Maine Department of Health and Human Services, MaineHousing, HUD, and Community Action Program sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change frequently. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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