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South Portland Food Cupboard is dedicated to supporting our community by connecting individuals and families to vital resources. Whether you’re seeking assistance with housing, financial support, healthcare, mental health services, employment, childcare, legal services, substance use recovery, or transportation, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of local and statewide resources to help. These organizations provide essential services, including emergency shelters, affordable healthcare, mental health counseling, job training, and more. Explore the categories below to find the support you need, and visit their websites for additional information and assistance.

Have a resource that you believe should be added? Please send our Development + Communications Associate, Lauren Smith Kennedy, an email: lauren.foodcupboard@outlook.com
 

Jump to a Section:

Housing & Shelter

MaineHousing
Provides affordable housing assistance, rent relief, and homeless assistance across Maine. They help low-income families find stable housing.
Website: MaineHousing
 

Portland Emergency Shelter Assessment Committee (PESAC)
Offers shelter and homelessness services in the Portland area for individuals and families. They also provide resources on affordable housing.
Website: PESAC
 

Tedford Housing
Provides emergency housing and outreach services in Maine. They offer resources for those experiencing homelessness, including supportive housing programs.
Website: Tedford Housing
 

Through These Doors
Provides shelter, emergency housing, and support services for individuals experiencing domestic violence in Cumberland County, ME.
Website: Through These Doors

City of Portland Family Shelter
Provides emergency housing and support services for homeless families in the Portland area. Services include case management, housing assistance, and access to community resources.
Website: Portland Family Shelter
 

Amistad, Inc.
Offers peer-based recovery and homeless outreach services, including housing support for individuals struggling with homelessness and mental health issues.
Website: Amistad, Inc.

 

Family Promise of Greater Portland
Provides shelter, case management, and support for families facing homelessness. Their program focuses on helping families achieve sustainable independence.
Website: Family Promise
 

Shalom House
Offers housing and mental health support services to individuals with severe mental illness, helping them live independently in the community.
Website: Shalom House

Clothing + Household Resources

Maine Needs
Location: 332 Forest Avenue, Portland
Contact: maineneedsorg@gmail.com
Services: Provides free clothing, shoes, toiletries, household items, and essential supplies to individuals and families in need. 
Website: Maine Needs
 

Church of the Nazarene
Location: 525 Highland Avenue, South Portland
Contact: 207-767-2127
Services: Offers free clothing to those in need, with seasonal items and household essentials available.
Pickup Hours: Call for specific times.
 

St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center - Essentials Pantry
Offers free clothing, bedding, toiletries, and other essential household items to individuals and families in need in Greater Portland.
Website: St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center
 

Preble Street Resource Center - Clothing Closet
Provides free, seasonal clothing and household items for individuals experiencing homelessness or financial hardship. Located in Portland, ME.
Website: Preble Street
 

The Root Cellar - Free Clothing and Household Store
Offers free clothing, furniture, and household essentials to low-income families in Portland. Items are donated and available for anyone in need.
Website: The Root Cellar
 

Threads of Hope - Salvation Army
Provides free clothing vouchers for families in financial crisis, redeemable at their thrift stores. They also offer household items at reduced or no cost.
Website: Salvation Army Threads of Hope

Electric Tool Library (SPETL)

The SPETL features all-electric EGO lawn care tools, which South Portland residents can borrow to use at home free of charge by simply using their South Portland Public Library card to sign out the equipment. Residents can rent electric lawn mowers, leaf blowers, string trimmers, hedge trimmers, and edgers for one week per rental. See what is available or put a hold on a piece of equipment through the library catalogue. If you are not sure how to use the library's hold system, we have created a SPETL Equipment Reservation Tutorial PDF. ​Hours and Location: The SPETL is open seasonally, April through November, on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 3 PM. 929 Highland Avenue. South Portland, ME 04106. Phone: 207-317-2200. 
Website: https://www.southportland.org/298/Electric-Tool-Library-SPETL
 

Financial Assistance

General Assistance (GA) Program - South Portland
Helps individuals and families in need with financial assistance for basic necessities like rent, heating, and medication.
Website: South Portland General Assistance
 

Maine Equal Justice Partners
Provides advocacy and legal assistance for people struggling with poverty, including help with accessing healthcare, unemployment benefits, and welfare programs.
Website: Maine Equal Justice Partners
 

211 Maine
A free confidential service that connects individuals with financial assistance programs, housing, healthcare, and more across Maine.
Website: 211 Maine
 

Catholic Charities Maine
Provides a variety of social services, including financial assistance, housing support, and emergency relief for individuals and families in need.
Website: Catholic Charities Maine
 

Salvation Army - Portland Corps
Offers emergency financial assistance for utilities, rent, and other essential needs for those facing financial crises.
Website: Salvation Army - Portland
 

Southern Maine Agency on Aging
Provides financial assistance, meal services, and support programs for seniors, including help with Medicare, budgeting, and prescription drug costs.
Website: Southern Maine Agency on Aging
 

United Way of Greater Portland
Offers community programs, emergency financial assistance, and connections to local services for individuals and families experiencing financial hardship.
Website: United Way of Greater Portland

 

Healthcare & Mental Health

MaineHealth
A network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers offering free and low-cost healthcare services throughout Maine.
Website: MaineHealth
 

Community Counseling Center
Provides affordable mental health counseling and psychiatric services in Portland, ME, and nearby communities.
Website: Community Counseling Center
 

Maine Behavioral Healthcare
Offers mental health, substance use treatment, and developmental services across Maine. They provide counseling, crisis services, and peer support.
Website: Maine Behavioral Healthcare
 

Portland Community Free Clinic
Offers free, non-emergency medical services for uninsured adults in the Portland area, including physical exams, health education, and chronic disease management.
Website: Portland Community Free Clinic

Maine Access Immigrant Network (MAIN)
Provides culturally sensitive healthcare services and support for immigrants and refugees in Maine. Their services include health education and access to primary care.
Website: Maine Access Immigrant Network

CarePartners - MaineHealth
Offers free or low-cost healthcare services to uninsured individuals through a partnership with local hospitals and healthcare providers.
Website: CarePartners

Co-occurring Collaborative Serving Maine (CCSME)
Offers integrated care for individuals with both mental health and substance use disorders, providing treatment and recovery support services.
Website: CCSME

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Maine
Provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals living with mental health conditions and their families, including peer support groups and crisis services.
Website: NAMI Maine

The Root Cellar
Offers free health services, including a medical clinic and dental clinic, to low-income individuals and families in Portland.
Website: The Root Cellar

Maine Crisis Hotline
Available 24/7, this statewide hotline offers immediate crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and support for mental health emergencies.
Phone: 988 (or 1-888-568-1112)
Website: Maine Crisis Hotline
 

Maine Warm Line
A peer support phone line offering non-crisis emotional support and connection from people with lived experience of mental health challenges.
Phone: 1-866-771-9276
Website: Maine Warm Line

Eating Disorder Support

  • National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) Helpline: Provides support, resources, and treatment options for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
    Phone: 1-800-931-2237
    Text: NEDA to 741741
    Website: NEDA

  • Maine Eating Disorder Coalition: Connects people to local providers and resources. Contact through Maine DHHS Behavioral Health
     

Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs)
Maine has specialized facilities providing short-term intensive support for individuals experiencing behavioral health crises as an alternative to hospitalization. Contact via the Crisis Hotline for access.
Locations include:

  • Northern Light Acadia Hospital CSU — Bangor

  • Maine Behavioral Health Crisis Services — Portland
    More info: Maine DHHS Crisis Service
     

Safe Haven Programs
Some Maine communities offer Safe Haven drop-in centers where individuals can find non-clinical support during emotional distress outside of crisis situations. Check with local mental health agencies for availability.
 

211 Maine
A confidential 24/7 referral service that can connect callers to crisis services, support groups, and emergency mental health resources statewide.
Phone: 211 or 1-866-811-5695
Website: 211 Maine
 

Trans Lifeline (Serving Maine and beyond)
Peer support hotline staffed by trans people for trans people, providing emotional support.
Phone: 1-877-565-8860
Website: Trans Lifeline
 

The Trevor Project
Support and crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth.
Phone: 1-866-488-7386
Text: START to 678678
Website: The Trevor Project

 

Employment & Education

Maine CareerCenter
Offers job search resources, resume workshops, and unemployment assistance for Maine residents. They also provide training programs for individuals seeking new skills.
Website: Maine CareerCenter
 

Portland Adult Education
Provides adult learning opportunities, including GED classes, English language courses, and vocational training programs for Portland-area residents.
Website: Portland Adult Education
 

Goodwill Northern New England - Job Connection
Helps individuals find employment and access job training programs through personalized coaching and support.
Website: Goodwill NNE
 

Workforce Solutions
Offers employment and training programs for those with barriers to employment. Their services are designed to help individuals improve their skills and enter the workforce.
Website: Workforce Solutions

New Ventures Maine
Provides career training, financial education, and entrepreneurship support for Maine residents. Their programs help individuals start small businesses and improve job skills.
Website: New Ventures Maine

Eastern Maine Development Corporation (EMDC)
Offers workforce development, job training, and support services for job seekers, including those in low-income or disadvantaged communities.
Website: EMDC

Vocational Rehabilitation Services (Maine Department of Labor)
Helps individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment by providing training, career counseling, and job placement services.
Website: Vocational Rehabilitation Services

LearningWorks
Provides educational programs and support services for immigrants, at-risk youth, and adults seeking to improve their skills and job prospects.
Website: LearningWorks

 

Childcare & Family Support


Be There For Me
A nonprofit organization in Maine that provides essential resources, including free clothing and household items, to individuals and families in crisis. They focus on supporting those facing hardships such as homelessness and financial instability, ensuring that basic needs are met during challenging times.

Website: Home | Be There For Me


Maine Families
Provides home visiting services and resources to support parents and caregivers in raising healthy children, focusing on early childhood development and family well-being.
Website: Maine Families
 

Child Care Choices (Maine)
An online resource that helps parents find licensed childcare providers and offers information on state assistance programs for low-income families.
Website: Child Care Choices
 

Opportunity Alliance
Offers a variety of programs for families, including childcare, parenting support, and early childhood education. They also provide mental health and substance use services.
Website: Opportunity Alliance

The Opportunity Alliance - Head Start
Offers early childhood education, family support services, and childcare programs for low-income families with children aged 0-5 in Cumberland County.

Website: Head Start at Opportunity Alliance

 

York County Community Action Corporation (YCCAC) - Child Services
Provides early childhood education, family support, and childcare subsidies for low-income families in York County.
Website: YCCAC

The Center for Grieving Children
Provides free support services to children, teens, and families grieving the death or serious illness of a loved one.
Website: Center for Grieving Children

Maine Families Home Visiting Program
Offers home visits by trained professionals to support new parents and caregivers in promoting their children’s health, development, and early learning.
Website: Maine Families Home Visiting

Diapers

Jewish Community Alliance of Southern Maine

1342 Congress Street
Portland, ME 04102

Phone: 207-772-1959
Email:kefron@mainejewish.org

Monday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM EST
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM EST
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM EST
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM EST
Friday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM EST
Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

Visit Website

St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center - Essentials Pantry

Offers free clothing, bedding, toiletries, and other essential household items to individuals and families in need in Greater Portland.

Website: St. Elizabeth’s Jubilee Center

 

Legal Services

Pine Tree Legal Assistance
A nonprofit organization providing free legal assistance to low-income individuals in Maine. Their services cover housing, family law, benefits, and immigration issues.
Website: Pine Tree Legal Assistance
 

Legal Services for the Elderly
Provides free legal help for seniors in Maine, covering areas like healthcare, elder abuse, and housing.
Website: Legal Services for the Elderly
 

Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP)
Helps low-income immigrants navigate the legal system, offering services like visa and asylum assistance, and advocacy for immigrant rights.
Website: ILAP

Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP)
Provides free legal assistance and representation to low-income individuals in Maine, covering civil legal matters such as family law, landlord-tenant disputes, and small claims.
Website: Volunteer Lawyers Project
 

Maine Civil Liberties Union (MCLU)
Works to protect the civil rights and liberties of Maine residents, providing legal representation and advocacy in cases involving discrimination, free speech, and voting rights.
Website: MCLU
 

Disability Rights Maine
Offers legal advocacy and services for individuals with disabilities, including support with education, healthcare, housing, and employment rights.
Website: Disability Rights Maine
 

Immigrant Resource Center of Maine (IRCM)
Provides legal services, advocacy, and support for immigrants and refugees in Maine, particularly survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.
Website: IRCM

 

Substance Use & Recovery

Portland Recovery Community Center (PRCC)A peer-led recovery center offering support groups, resources, and social connections for individuals in recovery from substance use disorders.Website: PRCC

 

Milestone Recovery
Provides detox, substance abuse treatment, and long-term recovery support for individuals experiencing homelessness or addiction in Portland, ME.
Website: Milestone Recovery
 

Maine Access Points
Offers harm reduction services, including naloxone distribution, and helps connect individuals to treatment for substance use disorders in Maine.
Website: Maine Access Points
 

Crossroads Maine 
Provides comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment for women and their families, offering residential and outpatient programs.
Website: Crossroads Maine
 

Catholic Charities Maine - Substance Abuse Counseling
Provides substance use treatment services, including individual and group counseling, to help individuals and families recover from addiction.
Website: Catholic Charities - Substance Use
 

Journey House Sober Living
Offers sober living facilities and peer support for men and women in recovery from substance use, helping them transition back to independent living.
Website: Journey House
 

Grace Street Services
Provides comprehensive outpatient substance use treatment, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and counseling for individuals struggling with opioid use disorders.
Website: Grace Street Services

 

Transportation

South Portland Bus Service
Provides public transportation within South Portland and to nearby areas, offering affordable fares and passes for those in need of access to jobs, healthcare, and resources.
Website: South Portland Bus Service

Regional Transportation Program (RTP)
Offers low-cost transportation for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and low-income residents in Greater Portland.
Website: RTP

LogistiCare MaineCare Transportation
Provides non-emergency transportation services for MaineCare (Medicaid) recipients, helping them access medical appointments and healthcare facilities.
Website: LogistiCare Maine

LGBTQIA+ Resources

Equality Maine Community Center

A collaborative workplace for LGBTQ+ and allied social justice-seeking non-profit organizations, in addition to serving as a community center for Maine’s LGBTQ+ community.
Website: About the ECC — Equality Community Center

 

Safe Combinations
A safe, affirming, and affordable thrift store serving Portland’s trans and queer community and those who love and support us.
Pay what you can. Bras and binders are free.
 Open Friday and Saturday 1-5pm, Monday 1pm to 5pm

Located at 15 Casco St. Portland, ME. Inside the Equality Community Center. Safe Combinations is a project of MaineTransNet.

Website: Safe Combinations

Rainbow Arts Collective
A queer-led organization creating inclusive spaces through art, storytelling, and community.
Website: https://www.rainbowartscollective.org/

Queer Craft Maine
A project by Rainbow Arts Collective that hosts seasonal markets and events to support local queer artists.
Website: https://www.rainbowartscollective.org/queer-craft-maine
 

Queercovery
Peer-led recovery group for LGBTQ+ individuals dealing with substance use.
In-person meetings: Wednesdays at 6 PM, Equality Community Center, Portland.
Website: https://www.pressherald.com/2024/08/21/portland-based-recovery-group-creates-safe-space-for-lgbtq-community/

Sober Sunday LGBTQIA+ AA Meeting

Open Alcoholics Anonymous meeting for LGBTQIA+ and allies.
Sundays, 6:30–8:00 PM at Equality Community Center, Portland.
Website: https://eccmaine.org/calendar/2024/12/15/lgbtqia-sober-sunday-meeting
 

The Queer & Trans Agenda (AA Meeting)
Online AA meeting for LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Sundays, 6:30–7:30 PM EST.
Website: https://csoaamaine.org/meetings/the-queer-trans-agenda/
 

Frannie Peabody Center
Maine’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization offering prevention, testing, case management, and housing assistance.
Website: https://www.peabodycenter.org/
 

OUT Maine
Supports LGBTQ+ youth through education, empowerment, and community outreach across the state.
Website: https://www.outmaine.org/
 

Portland Outright
Youth-led organization supporting LGBTQ+ and marginalized youth through advocacy and leadership development.
Website: https://portlandoutright.org/resources
 

PFLAG Portland, Maine
Support group for LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, and allies. Offers monthly meetings and advocacy.
Website: https://pflagportlandmaine.org/

Domestic Violence + Abuse Support Resources

Through These Doors
Provides emergency shelter, safety planning, and support services for individuals experiencing domestic abuse in Cumberland County, ME.
Website: Through These Doors
 

Family Crisis Services
Offers 24/7 crisis support, emergency shelter, and advocacy for victims of domestic violence. They provide resources for legal aid and protective orders.
Website: Family Crisis Services
 

Immigrant Resource Center of Maine (IRCM)
Specializes in assisting immigrants and refugees facing domestic violence, offering culturally sensitive support, advocacy, and legal services.
Website: IRCM
 

Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence (MCEDV)
A statewide organization that provides resources, training, and support for individuals affected by domestic abuse. They connect people with local shelters and legal services.
Website: MCEDV
 

National Domestic Violence Hotline
Provides 24/7 confidential support, safety planning, and resources for individuals facing domestic violence. They offer both phone and online chat options.
Website: The Hotline
Phone: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

Hope and Justice Project
Serving Aroostook County, this organization offers crisis intervention, emergency shelter, legal advocacy, and support services for those experiencing domestic violence.
Website: Hope and Justice Project
 

Wabanaki Women’s Coalition
Offers support, education, and advocacy for Native American women and children affected by domestic violence and sexual assault in Maine’s Wabanaki communities.
Website: Wabanaki Women’s Coalition
 

Pine Tree Legal Assistance - Domestic Violence Help
Provides free legal services for survivors of domestic abuse, helping with protection orders, child custody, divorce, and safety planning.
Website: Pine Tree Legal Assistance

Domestic Violence Prevention and Resources - Online MFT Programs

Website: Domestic Violence Prevention and Resources

Written by Jessica White

Community Mental Health Worker & Case Manager

Pet Food Resources

Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
Location: 217 Landing Road, Westbrook
Contact: Jasmine Newton or John Florida, 207-854-9771, guestservices@arlgp.org
Distribution: Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Sundays from 3 PM to 5 PM
Requirements: One-time registration required on the ARL website, with an online order form. For those without computer access, orders can be placed by calling 207-854-9771 on distribution day before 3 PM.
Eligibility: No eligibility requirements. Serving Cumberland County.
Pickup only, no delivery service available.


Camp Bow Wow
Location: 49 Blueberry Road, Portland
Contact: 207-541-9247, portlandme@campbowwow.com
Distribution Hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 7 AM to 7 PM

  • Saturday & Sunday: 7:30 AM to 10 AM, 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM
    Requirements: No eligibility requirements. Anyone may receive pet food.
    Note: Call ahead to check on supply levels.


No Bowl Left Empty 2 Pet Food Pantry
Location: 238 Old Alfred Road, East Waterboro
Contact: 207-233-2793, nobowlempty@outlook.com
Distribution Hours:

  • 1st & 3rd Sundays from 1 PM to 3 PM

  • 1st Thursday 6 PM to 8 PM (April through October)

  • 2nd & 4th Wednesdays from 3 PM to 5 PM
    Additional Locations:

  • Pine Tree Estates in Standish (contact Pine Tree Estates Office at 207-642-2900)

  • Limited pet food distribution at Youth Full Maine Food Distributions (Thursdays in Dayton, 3rd Wednesday of the month in Biddeford)

  • Mobile distributions in Auburn and Norway in planning (details TBA)
    Requirements: Serving residents of Cumberland, York, Androscoggin, and Oxford Counties. All clients must complete a short Client Service Agreement. Proof of current municipal dog license and rabies certificate for cats required. No breeding; intact pets must be altered within 6 months.
    Assistance Limits: 1 household per address, maximum of 6 pets per household.
    Services: Food, treats, toys, litter, grooming supplies, crates, beds, flea/tick treatments, and more for dogs, cats, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, ferrets, rabbits, reptiles, fish, and birds as supplies allow.
    Pickup available, limited delivery on a case-by-case basis.


Coastal Humane Society
Location: 5 Industrial Parkway, Brunswick
Contact: 207-449-1366, info@midcoasthumane.org
Distribution Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays from 11 AM to 3 PM
Requirements: Must call ahead to check availability.
Pickup only.


Animal Rescue Unit
Location: 73 Middle Ridge Road, No. Bridgton
Contact: 207-939-7852
Distribution Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM
Requirements: Serving the Lakes Region. Call ahead.
Services: Food for cats, dogs, and occasionally farm animals.
Pickup, occasional delivery possible.


Pittie Posse’s Pet Pantry
Location: Steep Falls Park, Main Street, Steep Falls
Contact: 207-619-0027, pittiepossespetpantry@gmail.com
Distribution: One Sunday a month, 9 AM to 12 PM (date announced monthly via Facebook)
Requirements: Open to all in need. Must pre-register at Pittie Posse Registration Form.

 

Financial Aid for Pets 

Finally Home Senior Dog Rescue and Retirement Home: Offers two grants for financial assistance to help fund the care of senior animals so they can remain with their owners: 

The Sierra Fund is designed to help Maine pet owners provide needed veterinary care for their pets which may include initial vet visits, follow-up visits, medications, and other related expenses, TBD. Qualifications to apply:​
 

  1. The Sierra Fund aims to help senior dogs and their owners with medical needs due to financial hardship.

  2. Must have proof of State of Maine residency.

  3. Must have proof of being at or below 150% of current Poverty Guidelines; see Poverty Guidelines document attached to application.

  4. Must be applying for a senior dog (generally 7+)
     

Teddy's Friends Fund provides financial assistance to help Maine pet owners with animals that are at the end-of-life stage. 

Qualifications to apply:

  1. The Teddy’s Friends fund aims to help senior dogs who are at the end-of-life stage with medical needs, due to financial hardship.

  2. Must have proof of State of Maine residency.

  3. Must have proof of being at or below 150% of current Poverty Guidelines; see Poverty Guidelines document attached to application.

  4. Must be applying for a senior dog (generally 7+)


More Info: https://www.finallyhomemaine.org/

 

Animal Welfare Society (Kennebunk): Offers programs like Pet Assistance, Inc. (PAI), RedRover, and STARelief to assist with veterinary expenses for pet owners facing financial hardship. ​

Midcoast Humane: Provides a Public Assistance program and lists resources for spay/neuter services, including Cleo Fund and Maine Animal Health Alliance.

Action for Animals Maine (Lincoln County): Offers up to $500 in emergency veterinary care assistance for cats and dogs. ​

Maine Humane: Connects pet owners with organizations like RedRover and Rose’s Fund for financial aid in life-threatening situations. 

Stay@Home Program (Animal Welfare Society): Aims to keep pets in their homes by providing training resources, food, veterinary services, temporary boarding, and other assistance.

Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Programs

Help Fix ME (Statewide): A Maine Department of Agriculture program offering low-cost spay/neuter services to income-eligible residents. ​

Spay Maine: Provides information on affordable spay/neuter options throughout the state.​

Topsham Community Spay-Neuter Clinic: Offers low-cost spay/neuter services to pet owners in need.​ 

Town & Country Federal Credit Union: Offers pet loans to help cover routine veterinary care, emergency services, and adoption expenses. ​


NATIONAL: 
 

RedRover Relief

Support: Grants of up to $250–$500 for emergency veterinary care.

Requirements: Life-threatening conditions with good recovery prognosis; financial documentation needed.

Website: redrover.org/relief

The Pet Fund

Support: Helps with chronic conditions, but not immediate emergencies. Useful for ongoing care post-crisis.

Website: thepetfund.com

Brown Dog Foundation

Support: Helps families with income limitations afford life-saving emergency treatment.

Website: browndogfoundation.org

Frankie's Friends

Support: Grants for emergency and specialty veterinary care for pets with good survival outcomes.

Website: frankiesfriends.org

Paws 4 A Cure

Support: Non-emergency and emergency grants for veterinary expenses.

Website: paws4acure.org

Shakespeare Animal Fund

Support: Emergency vet help for low-income seniors, disabled individuals, and others in need.

Website: shakespeareanimalfund.org

Riedel & Cody Fund (for pets with cancer)

Support: Focused financial support for animals undergoing cancer treatment.

Website: riedelcody.org

 

Aging Adults

Southern Maine Agency on Aging (SMAA)
Serving Cumberland and York Counties, SMAA offers services such as Meals on Wheels, Medicare counseling, caregiver support, and Aging & Disability Resource Center assistance.

Phone Pal: (This program is designed to help older adults socialize and remain connected while staying at home.)

SMAA Resource Specialists: here to help you navigate the complicated network of resources available to older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers in Maine.

Website: Southern Maine Agency on Aging

Maine Council on Aging
A statewide organization advocating for policies and practices that support healthy aging, age-friendly communities, and economic security for older adults in Maine.
Website: Maine Council on Aging

Spectrum Generations
Serving central and midcoast Maine, Spectrum Generations provides support including nutrition services, caregiver education, disability services, and wellness programs for older adults.
Website: Spectrum Generations

AgingME – Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program
A statewide collaboration offering healthcare education, training for caregivers and providers, and resources to improve the care and support of older Mainers.
Website: AgingME

Legal Services for the Elderly
This organization provides free legal help to Maine residents aged 60 and over, including assistance with elder rights, housing, healthcare access, and protection from abuse.
Website: Legal Services for the Elderly

211 Maine
A free, confidential resource connecting individuals with local aging-related services such as housing assistance, transportation, elder care, and healthcare resources.
Website: 211 Maine

Fuel Assistance

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
A statewide program administered through local Community Action Agencies, HEAP helps eligible low-income Maine residents with heating costs such as oil, propane, wood, natural gas, and electricity. Benefits are paid directly to fuel vendors.
Website: MaineHousing HEAP

Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP)
This Maine Public Utilities Commission program offers emergency heating assistance to households in crisis during the heating season, providing emergency fuel funds to prevent loss of heat.
Website: Maine PUC ECIP

Keep ME Warm Fund
A partnership between United Way of Southern Maine and local agencies, the Keep ME Warm Fund provides emergency heating assistance to Maine residents who qualify, especially those not eligible for HEAP.
Website: Keep ME Warm Fund

General Assistance (GA) Fuel Aid
Local municipalities in Maine offer General Assistance programs that may include emergency heating and fuel aid for residents in need. Contact your town or city office for details.
Website: Maine Office of Public Advocate - GA

211 Maine
A free, confidential 24/7 referral service that connects Maine residents to local fuel assistance programs, including HEAP and emergency funds. Call 2-1-1 or visit online for support.
Website: 211 Maine

Local Community Action Agencies


Several agencies across Maine administer fuel assistance programs. Residents should contact the agency serving their county for help applying for HEAP and emergency fuel aid.

  • Southern Maine Community Action Agency (SMCAA) — Serving Cumberland and York Counties
    Website: SMCAA

  • Kennebec Valley Community Action Program (KVCAP) — Serving Kennebec and Somerset Counties
    Website: KVCAP

  • Waldo Community Action Partners (WCAP) — Serving Waldo County
    Website: WCAP

  • York County Community Action Corporation (YCCAC) — Serving York County
    Website: YCCAC

  • Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP) — Serving Aroostook County
    Website: ACAP

Housing and Shelter
Financial Assistance
Healthcare & Mental Health
Employment & Education
Childcare & Family Support
Diapers
Legal Services
Substance Use & Recovery
Transportation
LGBTQIA+ Resources​
Domestic Violence and Abuse Support Resources
Pet Food Resources
Financial Aid for Pets 
Clothing and Household Resources
Aging Adults
Fuel Assistance

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Phone: 207-874-0379

 

Location and Mailing Address:
130 Thadeus Street
South Portland, ME 04106

207-874-0379

 

EIN: 03-0550892

In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the South Portland Food Pantry does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. 

Copyright © 2024 | South Portland Food Cupboard | All Rights Reserved 

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