Find a Food Pantry or Support in South China, ME

At the DHHS Community Care Program in South China, Maine, we are committed to empowering individuals by bridging gaps to vital health programs and social services. Our easy-to-use online referral system is designed for everyone, especially those facing barriers to accessing necessary resources. By completing our referral form, individuals can connect with a diverse range of support, including culturally and linguistically appropriate services, resources tailored for mothers, babies, and children, assistance in navigating the healthcare system, health and wellness education, and options for food security, heating, and transportation. We also offer support for managing stress and anxiety, along with COVID-related resources. After submitting a referral, our dedicated staff will work diligently to connect community members with relevant organizations within 1-3 days, ensuring that support is just a step away. Please note that eligibility varies across programs and is often influenced by regional availability.

The Maine Senior FarmShare Program is dedicated to supporting income-eligible older adults in South China, ME, by providing them with the opportunity to receive a free share of fresh, local produce from Maine farmers during the growing season. Each share, valued at $50, allows seniors to enjoy nutritious fruits and vegetables while fostering connections with local agriculture. Registration begins annually in April, and due to limited availability, shares are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. While meeting eligibility requirements is essential, it does not guarantee a FarmShare, so we encourage interested seniors to sign up promptly for this vital program.

The Dysphagia Outreach Project Food Bank in South China, ME, is dedicated to providing essential food assistance and resources for individuals with dysphagia. We understand the unique challenges faced by those with swallowing difficulties, and our commitment to care is reflected in our wide range of services including food thickeners, pre-modified foods, therapy tools, oral care supplies, and adaptive equipment. Our goal is to empower low-income individuals struggling with dysphagia to live healthier, more fulfilling lives by ensuring they have access to the necessary supports and nourishment they need.

The DHHS Community Care Program, part of the Office of Population Health Equity in South China, ME, is dedicated to helping Mainers access essential health programs and social services through a user-friendly online referral system. We believe everyone deserves support, especially those who face barriers in obtaining the resources they qualify for. Our comprehensive approach connects individuals and families to a wide range of assistance, including culturally sensitive services, parental support for mothers and children, healthcare navigation, health education, and resources for food, heating, and transportation. We also provide vital assistance for stress management and COVID-related resources. By submitting a single referral per household, community members can connect with our network of partners who will reach out within 1-3 days to discuss their specific needs and options. Please be aware that eligibility requirements vary by program and region, ensuring personalized support tailored to each individual's situation.

In South China, ME, CORE is dedicated to uplifting restaurant industry employees faced with financial challenges due to illness or medical emergencies. Our mission is to provide essential financial assistance to food and beverage service workers and their families in need, helping cover necessary expenses such as rent or mortgage, utilities, funeral costs, medical bills, and childcare needs. We understand the urgency of these situations and are committed to offering support during difficult times. Former grant recipients can reapply after 12 months for continued assistance, ensuring that our resources are available for those who truly need them. With a lifetime cap of $7,500, CORE strives to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those we serve, providing a lifeline when it matters most.

Food Stamp Assistance in South China, ME, is dedicated to helping individuals and families access vital food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Our mission is to alleviate the stress of poverty by providing straightforward support for applying for government benefits. We offer a user-friendly screener that can be accessed via text or online to help determine eligibility quickly and efficiently. If you're likely eligible, we guide you through the application process and can connect you with local partners for additional support, ensuring that accessing food support is as simple as possible. We believe that everyone deserves access to nutritional resources, and we're here to make that happen.

The Maine Senior FarmShare Program, located in South China, ME, is dedicated to supporting income-eligible older adults by providing access to fresh, local produce at no cost. Each participating senior is given the chance to receive a $50 share of seasonal fruits and vegetables directly from local Maine farmers, promoting healthy eating and community connection. Enrollment opens in April, and shares are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, helping to ensure that seniors can enjoy nutritious, locally-sourced food during the growing season. Meeting the eligibility criteria is essential, but due to limited availability, it’s important to sign up early to secure a FarmShare.

The Last Mission Project, located in South China, ME, is dedicated to supporting veterans grappling with PTSD by alleviating financial burdens that often complicate their journey to recovery. Our mission is to empower veterans to seek necessary treatment without the overwhelming stress of costs affecting their families. By providing essential financial assistance for rent, utilities, vehicle payments, and groceries, we aim to foster a pathway for veterans to reintegrate into their families and communities as productive members. We believe that by addressing the financial aspects of care, we can help veterans learn to manage their PTSD effectively and regain control of their lives.

The Selma Schimmel Vital Grant, located in South China, ME, is dedicated to providing vital financial assistance to individuals facing significant hardships due to chronic, terminal, or rare conditions such as cancer, Parkinson's, and Huntington's Disease. Our program offers crucial support in the form of utility assistance and grocery assistance, helping those in need manage their financial burdens during challenging times. While this grant specifically focuses on either utilities or groceries, we work in partnership with other organizations to ensure that additional help is available to further support our community members. If you or someone you know requires assistance, we invite you to reach out and explore the resources available through our program.

Critical Financial Assistance in South China, ME, is dedicated to supporting military families facing financial hardship. Our mission is to provide essential resources, including food assistance, grants for auto repairs, vision care, and help with moving and relocation costs. We also offer vital support in the form of transitional housing for wounded veterans and their families. Our comprehensive financial assistance program extends to critical areas such as medical expenses, child care, and home repairs, ensuring that those who serve our country receive the help they need during challenging times. Eligible families can easily apply through our online portal, and we encourage those in need to reach out to discover how we can assist them on their journey toward stability and recovery.

In South China, ME, the Financial Resource Center is dedicated to alleviating the financial burdens faced by families impacted by cancer. Recognizing that a cancer diagnosis often leads to the difficult choice between essential needs like rent, groceries, and medical expenses, we strive to provide critical financial assistance that ensures families can focus on healing rather than financial worry. Our mission emphasizes that comprehensive cancer care goes beyond just medical treatment; it includes securing a stable home and access to food during difficult times. By supporting families with their financial needs, we aim to improve their overall health outcomes and foster a community where no family has to sacrifice basic necessities in their fight against cancer.

Located in South China, ME, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society is dedicated to supporting active duty and retired Sailors and Marines facing financial challenges. Our mission is to provide essential financial assistance and education, ensuring that military families have access to the resources they need for a stable and secure life. We offer aid for vital expenses including food, housing, utilities, and healthcare, alongside support for establishing new residences and managing unexpected costs like car repairs and medical bills. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through financial emergencies and help you navigate the available assistance. We invite you to connect with our local office to learn more about how we can assist you in your time of need.

Maine Harvest Bucks (MHB) is dedicated to enhancing food access for low-income families in South China, ME, by providing essential nutrition incentives at local farmers’ markets, CSA farms, and farm stands. Through our program, shoppers can earn $5 in Maine Harvest Bucks for every $10 spent using SNAP/EBT, making it easier to purchase fresh, locally sourced produce. Participants can utilize their Bucks on the same day or save them for future visits, ensuring that nutritious food is always within reach. Join us in supporting local agriculture and improving food security in our community.