Find a Food Pantry or Support in Lewiston, ME

The Maine Senior FarmShare Program in Lewiston, ME, proudly offers income-eligible seniors the chance to receive a complimentary share of fresh, locally grown produce valued at $50 directly from Maine farmers during the growing season. This initiative is designed to support older adults in accessing nutritious food while fostering connections with local agriculture. Seniors can enroll with participating farmers starting in April each year, but shares are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee a FarmShare, so we encourage prompt registration to secure this vital food assistance.

Located in Lewiston, ME, the Dysphagia Outreach Project Food Bank is dedicated to improving the quality of life for low-income individuals with dysphagia by providing essential food assistance and resources. Our mission is to ensure that those in need have access to specialized food thickeners, pre-modified foods, therapy tools, oral care supplies, and adaptive equipment, empowering individuals to manage their dietary needs with dignity and support. By addressing the unique challenges associated with dysphagia, we strive to enhance nutrition and well-being for our community.

At CORE, we are dedicated to helping families in the Lewiston, ME area who work in the restaurant industry and are facing financial challenges due to illness or medical emergencies. Our mission is to provide timely financial assistance to food and beverage service employees struggling to meet essential needs during difficult times. We offer support for critical expenses, including rent or mortgage, utilities, medical bills, childcare costs, and everyday necessities for children. Former recipients can reapply after one year for new or ongoing medical circumstances, ensuring that families have access to the resources they need for up to $7,500 over their lifetime. Through our compassionate approach, we strive to uplift and support industry employees navigating tough situations, helping them regain stability in their lives and families.

The DHHS Community Care Program, part of the Office of Population Health Equity in Lewiston, ME, is dedicated to connecting Mainers with vital health programs and social services designed to overcome barriers to access. Our user-friendly online referral system allows individuals and families to easily seek assistance tailored to their unique needs. We provide comprehensive support, offering culturally and linguistically appropriate services, health and wellness education, guidance through the healthcare system, and resources for mothers, babies, and children. Additionally, we facilitate access to food assistance, heating, transportation resources, as well as support for stress and anxiety, including COVID-related services. After submitting a referral form, our caring staff will ensure that community members are connected with appropriate organizations within 1-3 days to discuss their needs and available options. Each program has specific eligibility criteria, and resource availability may vary by region, reflecting our commitment to all Mainers seeking help.

At Food Stamp Assistance in Lewiston, ME, we are dedicated to helping individuals and families access vital food assistance through SNAP eligibility screenings and applications. Understanding the challenges that come with poverty, our mission is to make the process of applying for emergency food benefits as straightforward and stress-free as possible. We offer a convenient screener that can be accessed easily by texting FOOD (or COMIDA for Spanish) to 74544, which allows you to quickly determine your eligibility in just three minutes. If you qualify, we provide tailored guidance on how to apply for SNAP in your state, including options for simplified applications and support from community partners to assist you over the phone. We believe that everyone deserves access to food security without barriers, and we are here to lend a helping hand in your journey towards stability.

In Lewiston, Maine, Maine Harvest Bucks (MHB) empowers low-income shoppers by providing essential nutrition incentives at local farmers’ markets, CSA farms, and farm stands. Through our program, participants receive $5 in Maine Harvest Bucks for every $10 spent using SNAP/EBT, facilitating access to fresh, locally grown produce. This initiative not only helps individuals and families stretch their food budgets but also encourages healthier eating habits by making organic farm produce more accessible. Participants can utilize their earned Bucks on the same day or save them for future use, ensuring ongoing support for nutritious food access in our community.

The Maine Senior FarmShare Program in Lewiston, ME, is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of income-eligible older adults by providing them with free access to local, fresh produce from Maine farmers during the growing season. Designed to foster community connections and support sustainable agriculture, this initiative allows seniors to receive a share valued at $50, promoting nutritious eating and encouraging local farming. Enrollment begins in April each year, and seniors must sign up directly with a participating farmer to secure their share, which is available on a first-come, first-served basis, as availability is limited. This program is an essential resource for enhancing food access among Maine's senior population, ensuring that they can enjoy the benefits of quality, locally-grown fruits and vegetables.

The Last Mission Project, located in Lewiston, ME, is dedicated to supporting veterans grappling with PTSD by alleviating financial burdens that hinder their access to critical treatment. Our mission is to empower veterans to focus on their recovery without the fear of added financial stress, ensuring they can make informed decisions about their mental health. By providing financial assistance for essential needs such as rent, utilities, vehicle payments, and groceries, we aim to facilitate a smoother path to recovery, ultimately helping veterans reintegrate as valued members of their families and communities. Join us in this vital mission to support those who have served.

The Selma Schimmel Vital Grant is dedicated to supporting individuals in Lewiston, ME who are experiencing significant financial hardships caused by chronic, terminal, or rare conditions, including cancer, Parkinson's, and Huntington's Disease. Our program provides essential assistance for utilities and grocery needs, ensuring that those affected can receive the critical help they require during challenging times. While the grant specifically covers either utilities or groceries, we also collaborate with local organizations to connect recipients with additional support services, fostering a network of care and resilience in the community.

Critical Financial Assistance in Lewiston, ME, is dedicated to supporting military families facing financial hardships. We provide vital resources including food assistance, auto and home repairs, vision care, travel and transportation aid, and rent-free transitional housing for wounded veterans and their families. Our comprehensive financial services can help cover expenses like auto payments, child care, essential home items, medical needs, and utilities. We understand the urgency of these needs; therefore, eligible families are encouraged to apply through our easy-to-navigate online portal for assistance. While we strive to process requests promptly, please be aware that high demand may result in some delays. Our commitment is to ensure that those who have served our country receive the support they need to navigate challenging times.

Located in Lewiston, ME, the Financial Resource Center is dedicated to supporting families grappling with the financial burdens that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. We understand that a serious illness can force families to make difficult choices, such as whether to cover medical expenses or maintain basic living needs. Our mission is to ensure that no family has to compromise on essentials like housing, nutrition, and transportation during such challenging times. By providing critical financial assistance, we empower families to focus on what truly matters — healing and recovery. With a commitment to improving health outcomes across the nation, we strive to be a beacon of support for those navigating the complexities of cancer treatment.

Supportive Services for BIPOC Sex Workers is a dedicated collective based in Lewiston, ME, focused on empowering Black, Indigenous, and People of Color engaged in the sex trades. Led by performers and sex workers themselves, our organization believes in placing those directly impacted at the forefront of leadership and decision-making. We provide essential support through labor advocacy, financial assistance, and facilitate access to crucial mental health, medical care, and legal services. Our mission is to create a more equitable environment where the voices and needs of People of the Global Majority are heard and met, fostering a community of care and resilience.

Located in Lewiston, ME, Financial Assistance Funds is dedicated to supporting children with special health care needs and their families by providing crucial financial assistance. Our program is designed to alleviate some of the burdens associated with medical costs, covering expenses like prescriptions, medical bills, and durable medical equipment. We also extend our support to non-medical needs, facilitating home and vehicle modifications, and providing essential items such as clothing and diapers. Additionally, we address healthcare utilization costs, including travel, lodging, and parking fees for medical appointments. Daily living costs, such as food and utilities, are also part of our assistance. Each family may receive grants up to $500 per year, with requests processed in the order they are received. We understand the urgency of financial support, and offer a comprehensive review, ensuring assistance reaches those in need as quickly as possible.