How do I apply for SNAP?

Apply through your state's Department of Human Services — online, in person, or by phone. Approval for basic cases can happen in 30 days; expedited SNAP is available within 7 days for households in severe need. Bring ID, proof of income, rent/mortgage, and utilities.

Can I use a food bank without applying?

Yes. Most food banks and pantries don't require income verification, ID, or applications for initial visits. Feeding America's online locator (feedingamerica.org) finds nearby pantries by ZIP code. Most pantries let you visit once or twice a month.

Are custodial fathers eligible for WIC?

Yes. WIC covers custodial parents (including fathers and grandparents) of children under 5, and breastfeeding or postpartum mothers. It's commonly assumed to be mother-only — it isn't. Apply at your local WIC clinic. Income limit is 185% of the Federal Poverty Level.

What is summer food service?

USDA's Summer Food Service Program feeds children 18 and under during school breaks. No application required — kids just show up at a participating site (schools, parks, libraries). Text FOOD to 304-304 to find a nearby site, or call 211.

Food Assistance in Maine

8 verified resources.

About Food Assistance for Fathers

Food assistance programs for US fathers and families include SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps), WIC (Women, Infants, and Children — which serves custodial fathers of children under 5), the National School Lunch Program, food banks through the Feeding America network, and Meals on Wheels. SNAP is administered state-by-state; eligibility is generally based on household income below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level. Food banks operate in every state and are the fastest way to access food without an application — most require no ID or income verification for initial visits. TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program) supplies food banks with USDA commodities. Summer Food Service Programs feed children during school breaks. This directory includes each state's SNAP office, regional food bank networks, and WIC clinics.

Food Assistance in Maine

Maine district courts handle most family matters; superior courts handle more complex cases and appeals. The Division of Support Enforcement and Recovery operates under DHHS. Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, and Auburn are the largest cities. Pine Tree Legal Assistance is the primary LSC-funded civil legal aid program, with a strong online self-help library covering custody and support.

8 Resources

1. Feeding America – Maine Partners — Free

National network that supports Good Shepherd Food Bank and partner pantries providing emergency food across Maine. Fathers can call 800-771-2303 or use the food bank locator at feedingamerica.org to find the nearest pantry. Hours vary by location. Bring photo ID and proof of address where requested; most pantries do not require proof of income. Mobile pantries also serve rural areas on rotating schedules.

800-771-2303 · Varies by location · Visit Website

2. WIC Program – Maine — Free

Federal nutrition program providing food, formula, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education for pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children under age 5. Fathers bringing children to appointments can call 207-287-3991 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm. Bring photo ID, proof of Maine residency, income documentation, and the child's medical or immunization records. Eligibility is based on household income and categorical need.

207-287-3991 · Augusta, ME 04333 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

3. Full Plates Full Potential — Free

Statewide anti-hunger nonprofit focused on connecting Maine children to federal school meal and summer nutrition programs. Fathers can call 207-761-4700 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm or visit fullplates.org to find local participating schools and summer meal sites. Programs are free to eligible students, with many summer sites open to all children 18 and under regardless of school district. Advocates also assist schools with program enrollment.

207-761-4700 · Portland, ME 04101 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm · Visit Website

4. Meals on Wheels – Maine — Free

Home-delivered meal programs for seniors and homebound individuals across Maine, operated through local aging agencies. Fathers caring for an older parent or a homebound family member can call 888-998-6325 Mon-Fri to find the local provider. Many programs serve adults 60+ regardless of income, with donations requested but not required. Services include friendly wellness checks from delivery volunteers along with the meals.

888-998-6325 · Mon-Fri · Visit Website

5. Wayside Food Programs – Portland — Free

Emergency food pantry, community meals, and food rescue program in Portland serving individuals and families facing food insecurity. Fathers can call 207-775-4939 Mon-Fri 8am-5pm or visit the Fore Street site for pantry hours and meal schedules. Services are free, with no appointment typically required for community meals. Bring photo ID and proof of address when possible, though unsheltered guests are also welcome.

207-775-4939 · 468 Fore St, Portland, ME 04101 · Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

6. Lewiston-Auburn Community Food Pantry — Free

Emergency food distribution serving the Lewiston-Auburn twin cities, operated in partnership with Good Shepherd Food Bank. Fathers can call 207-795-4010 Mon-Fri 9am-3pm or visit the Lewiston location for distribution times. Bring photo ID and proof of address when requested. Proof of income is generally not required for pantry services. Staff also help clients access SNAP, WIC, and other benefits programs.

207-795-4010 · Lewiston, ME 04240 · Mon-Fri 9am-3pm · Visit Website

7. Manna Ministries – Bangor — Free

Hot meal program and emergency food assistance serving individuals and families in Bangor. Fathers and children can visit the Columbia Street site Mon-Fri at lunch for a free meal, no registration required. For additional food help, call 207-990-2870 during weekday business hours. Services are free and open to all community members. Volunteers also connect guests with referrals to housing, recovery, and benefits programs.

207-990-2870 · 75 Columbia St, Bangor, ME 04401 · Mon-Fri lunch

8. South Portland Food Cupboard — Free

Community food pantry serving South Portland residents with groceries and household essentials. Fathers can call 207-874-0379 Mon, Wed, and Fri 10am-12pm or visit the Thadeus Street site during distribution hours. Bring photo ID and proof of South Portland residency. Services are free to income-eligible households; staff will help with intake paperwork on site. The pantry is stocked through Good Shepherd Food Bank partnerships and donations.

207-874-0379 · 130 Thadeus St, South Portland, ME 04106 · Mon-Wed-Fri 10am-12pm · Visit Website

Food Assistance — Common Questions

How do I apply for SNAP?: Apply through your state's Department of Human Services — online, in person, or by phone. Approval for basic cases can happen in 30 days; expedited SNAP is available within 7 days for households in severe need. Bring ID, proof of income, rent/mortgage, and utilities.
Can I use a food bank without applying?: Yes. Most food banks and pantries don't require income verification, ID, or applications for initial visits. Feeding America's online locator (feedingamerica.org) finds nearby pantries by ZIP code. Most pantries let you visit once or twice a month.
Are custodial fathers eligible for WIC?: Yes. WIC covers custodial parents (including fathers and grandparents) of children under 5, and breastfeeding or postpartum mothers. It's commonly assumed to be mother-only — it isn't. Apply at your local WIC clinic. Income limit is 185% of the Federal Poverty Level.
What is summer food service?: USDA's Summer Food Service Program feeds children 18 and under during school breaks. No application required — kids just show up at a participating site (schools, parks, libraries). Text FOOD to 304-304 to find a nearby site, or call 211.