Food Security/SNAP, Tobey Solomon-Auger (tobey.solomon-auger@maine.gov)
Recent changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) include expanded work reporting requirements, which now apply to individuals up to age 64 (previously 55) and caregivers with dependents aged 14 and older (previously 18 and older). These work requirement changes will take effect at renewal time. Importantly, individuals who are unable to work are not required to meet these requirements—they simply need to provide documentation from a provider confirming their inability to work. Additionally, veterans, people experiencing homelessness, and former foster youth are no longer automatically exempt from work requirements. The Heat and Eat program has also changed, with utility allowances now limited to households that include a person with a disability or someone aged 60 or older—these changes have already taken effect. Changes to immigrant eligibility for SNAP have not yet been implemented. Click here to watch presentation.
Resource - SNAP Benefit Change handout
Resource - SNAP Outreach Program
Resource - SNAP Application Assistance tool
Resource - Office of Family Independence - Community Partners Meeting
Resource - Ending Hunger in Maine newsletter
Maine Division of the Blind, Sharisse Roberts (Sharisse.G.Roberts@maine.gov)
The Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI) provides comprehensive services for visually impaired individuals of all ages through education, vocational rehabilitation, independent living, and business enterprise programs. The vocational rehabilitation program, which serves adults interested in working any number of hours, currently has no waitlist. For adults not seeking employment but wishing to maintain their independence, the independent living program offers services such as vision rehabilitation, orientation and mobility training, low vision skills development, assistive technology training, and advocacy. While there is a waiting list for this program, individuals are moving up quickly. Click here to wach presentation.
Resource - DBVI Rack Card
Resource - DBVI Training Resources
Senior Companion Program, Jennifer Jain (jennifer.jain@maine.edu)
The Senior Companion Program (SCP) connects older adult volunteers aged 55 and up with homebound older adults and adults with disabilities throughout 11 counties in Maine. Volunteers typically serve 5–20 hours per week, receive training, and may qualify for a modest stipend of $4 per hour if they meet income guidelines (approximately $31,000 per year or less). Services include companionship, emotional support, light housework assistance, and respite care for family caregivers. In York and Cumberland Counties, the program is administered through the Opportunity Alliance.
Click here to watch presentation.
Resource - Senior Companion brochure
Lifelong Maine Resource Connection Call, August 20, 2025
We heard from four presenters about the resources they have available to support older Mainers. Below is our line-up of speakers.
The technology failed us in August so we do not have recordings to share. Instead, we are sharing detailed notes abotu each program featured on teh call.
If you have questions, please reach out to the presenters. They will be delighted to hear from you!
Every state has a program dedicated to making life more accessible for people with disabilities, and in Maine, that program is Maine CITE. As the State Assistive Technology Act Program, Maine CITE serves as a vital resource for residents seeking to overcome barriers and enhance their independence through assistive technology.
What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology includes any device or service that helps a person with a disability accomplish tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. From simple aids like magnifying glasses to sophisticated smart home systems, these tools can transform daily life for individuals facing physical, sensory, cognitive, or other challenges.
Services for All Mainers
Maine CITE's mission extends to all Maine residents, regardless of age, ability level, or area of need. The program offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to connect people with the right assistive technology solutions:
Demonstrations allow individuals to try devices before making purchasing decisions
Short-term loans provide opportunities to test assistive technology in real-world settings
A lending library offers access to devices for temporary use
A reuse program helps make assistive technology more affordable and sustainable
Training resources ensure people can effectively use their assistive devices
A Wide Range of Solutions
During a recent presentation by Lara Carlson (lcarlson@mainecite.org), Maine CITE showcased the breadth of assistive technology available to support various needs. The demonstration included devices addressing hearing and vision impairments, smart home technology that enhances accessibility and safety, daily living aids that promote independence, medication management systems, mobility devices, and even recreational equipment.
Statewide Network of Support
Maine CITE doesn't work alone. The program provides comprehensive assistive technology resources through partnerships with organizations across the state, including Spurwink Altec, Pine Tree Society, and multiple University of Maine locations. This collaborative approach ensures that Mainers throughout the state can access the support they need close to home.
Getting Started
For those interested in exploring Maine CITE's assistive device loan program, detailed information is available at https://at4maine.org/. The organization welcomes inquiries and can be reached through multiple channels: visit their website at mainecite.org, call 207-621-3195, or send an email to info@mainecite.org.
Whether you're seeking solutions for yourself, a family member, or someone you support professionally, Maine CITE stands ready to help navigate the world of assistive technology and discover tools that can make meaningful differences in daily life.
Your Neighbors in Red Vests: How the Red Cross Serves Our Community
When disaster strikes or someone needs lifesaving blood, chances are the person who shows up to help is a volunteer. In fact, 90% of the people working with the American Red Cross are volunteers—your neighbors, coworkers, and friends who've chosen to give their time to help others.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the Red Cross depends entirely on volunteers and donations to carry out its mission across five major program areas: blood services, disaster cycle services, service to armed forces, international services, and training services.
The Power of Community Partnerships
Here's something that might surprise you: 80% of all blood collected comes from community blood drives organized by partner organizations rather than Red Cross-run centers. Even more interesting, people who sign up through a partner organization are more likely to show up for their appointments than those who schedule directly through the Red Cross. There's something powerful about being asked by an organization you already trust.
Free Training to Keep You and Your Loved Ones Safe
The Red Cross offers several free community preparedness programs, including Ready Rating assessments, Be Red Cross Ready courses (including one designed specifically by and for older adults), and Hands-Only CPR training. These trainings are coordinated through community partners, including Age-Friendly Communities in your area.
Protecting Older Community Members from Home Fires
Adults over 65 face double the risk of injury or death from home fires—which is why the Home Fire Campaign prioritizes reaching seniors with free smoke alarms and fire safety education. The program also provides adaptive smoke alarms for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, all at no cost. There's no income requirement; the goal is simply to get these lifesaving devices to the people who need them.
Get Involved
Ready to be part of this volunteer-powered mission? Here are a few ways to help:
Volunteer your time and skills
Donate blood at a community drive near you
Give financially to support Red Cross programs
Partner with the Red Cross through your Age-Friendly Community
Every contribution, whether it's an hour of your time or a pint of blood, helps your neighbors when they need it most.
The Veterans Benefits Administration offers a range of support for those who've served, from disability compensation to home loans to career training. Understanding what's available—and how to access it—can make all the difference.
Service-Connected Disability Compensation
At the heart of VBA benefits is service-connected compensation, which covers disabilities, diseases, or injuries incurred or aggravated during active duty. There are four pathways to establishing service connection:
Direct – The condition originated during service
Secondary – A new condition caused by an already service-connected disability
Aggravation – A pre-existing condition worsened by service
Presumptive – Certain conditions automatically linked to specific service circumstances
Veterans with at least 10% service connection may also qualify for the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, which provides retraining, education assistance, and equipment to help with career transitions.
Don't Go It Alone
One of the most important pieces of advice for veterans seeking benefits: work with a representative rather than applying on your own. Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) located on the Togus campus can help you file forms and answer questions throughout the process.
The Togus Regional Office also provides in-person assistance at 10 clinic locations throughout Maine. If you're visiting an off-site location, be sure to schedule an appointment with a benefit specialist in advance.
Pro tip: Visit the Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services website for a comprehensive list of benefits, downloadable forms, and application sites to get started.
The Department of Veterans Affairs operates through three main divisions: healthcare administration, cemetery administration, and benefits administration. For veterans in Maine, the healthcare system carries a special legacy—the Togus VA Medical Center was the first VA facility built in the country.
Care Close to Home
Today, the VA Maine Healthcare System includes 10 care locations across the state. In addition to the main campus in Chelsea, community-based outpatient clinics bring services closer to veterans throughout Maine.
Eligibility for VA healthcare is based on several factors, including service-connected disability and income thresholds. The system also offers specialized programs to meet diverse needs:
Women veterans clinic
Post-9/11 program
Geriatric and extended care services
The PACT Act: A Game-Changer for Eligibility
The PACT Act has significantly expanded healthcare eligibility, particularly for veterans exposed to toxins during their service. This landmark legislation means many veterans who were previously denied VA healthcare may now qualify.
Pro tip: If you or a veteran you know was turned down for VA healthcare in the past, it's worth reapplying. The expanded criteria under the PACT Act could change everything.
No Wrong Door
The VA Maine Healthcare System embraces a "no wrong door" philosophy, with multiple service organizations available on the Togus campus. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or need help navigating the system, there's a path forward—and someone ready to help you find it.
Maine Community Action Partnership, Mary-Rita Reinhard (mreinhard@community-concepts.org), Interim Executive Director, described the many ways that Maine's Community Action Agencies support older Mainers. Local CAAs typically help older adults with several core needs: heating and utility assistance (like LIHEAP and weatherization), food access (food pantries, home‑delivered or congregate meals in some areas), and transportation support to medical appointments and essential errands. Some Community Action Agencies also connect people to help with housing stability, money management, and benefits screening, volunteer opprtunities and companion programs. Click here to view presentation.
National Digital Equity Center - Marci Gaglione (marci@digitalequitycenter.org), Training and Outreach Manager. The National Digital Equity Center (NDEC) provides free and low-cost digital skills training—online and in-person—covering basic computer use, internet safety, and workplace tools, with specialized classes for older adults. Through its train-the-trainer model, NDEC helps libraries and community centers host local classes and build "digital opportunity ecosystems" addressing broadband access, devices, and skills training. Through June 2026, Mainers have special FREE access to 17 classes. Click here to view presentation.
Office of the Maine State Fire Marshal, Richard Taylor (richard.e.taylor@maine.gov), Senior Research and Planning Analyst, National Fire Incident Reporting System State Manager. The Maine State Fire Marshal's Office works to prevent fires, investigate causes, and promote building safety statewide. They provide tailored education on safe heating, smoking, and cooking practices, along with escape planning guidance for people with disabilities or mobility challenges. Through resource pages and partnerships, the office connects Mainers and caregivers to fire-safety checklists, home heating information, and smoke alarm options for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Click here to view presentation.
Catholic Charities - Michael Smith (msmith@ccmaine.org), described two programs offered by Catholic Charities Maine. The SEARCH program focuses on social connection and practical support for isolated older adults, while Independent Support Services provides in‑home “homemaker” help so seniors and adults with disabilities can remain safely in their own homes. Click here to watch presentation. Click here to open a folder with resources shared by Michael about both programs.
Legal Services for Maine Elders - Jill Randall (JRandall@mainelse.org), Helpline & Medicare Advocacy Services Director. Legal Services for Maine Elders’ Medicare Advocacy Services help older Mainers understand and use their Medicare benefits, resolve coverage problems, and appeal denials so they can access the health care and prescriptions they need. Click here to watch presentation.
Long Term Services and Supports - Office of Aging and Disability Services - Nicole Rooney (Nicole.Rooney@maine.gov), Long Term Care Manager, shared information about navigating Maine's Long Term Services and Support programs. Learn about financial and medical eligibility requirements. Click here to watch presentation. Click here to open a folder with resources shared.
Senior Community Service Employment Program - Allie Novicki (Allie.Novicki@maine.gov), Program Manager. The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) in Maine is a federally funded job training program that provides part‑time, paid community service positions to low‑income job seekers age 55 and older, helping them build skills and transition to unsubsidized employment. It is authorized under the Older Americans Act and administered in Maine through the Office of Aging and Disability Services and partner organizations such as Associates for Training and Development, which place participants in nonprofit and public agencies across the state. Click here to watch presentation.
November 2024
Consumers For Affordable Healthcare. Helen Roy (hroy@mainecahc.org) described the expanded eligibility for the Medicare Savings Program - more people than ever can now access assistance with Medicare costs. Raising awareness of this program can save qualifying community members thousands each year. Click here to watch presentation. Click here for a flyer with more information about the program.
Maine Governor's Energy Office. Anthony Ross (Ross.Anthony@maine.gov) shared the new Winter Heating Guide from the Governor's Energy Office(updated for 2026). It is a one page document you can use to help people in your community find the resources they need. Click here to watch presentation.
Maine State Housing. Sarah Johnson (sjohnson@mainehousing.org) described the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and explained how age-friendly communities can support community members to apply online. We also heard about the new Eviction Prevention Program launched by Maine State Housing. Click here to watch presentation.
Office for Aging and Disability Services. Maine Access Navigator Tool Sara Grant (sara.grant@maine.gov) described a newly launched self-guided tool to help people navigate a variety of resources and benefit programs, and connect to the organizations that can provide assistance. Click here to watch presentation. Click here for more information.