Support starts
in Portland.
Food, a place to stay, care, or a little help with the everyday. Find your next step in and around Portland, Maine.
Explore 93 local listingsWhat would help today?
Start with a need. Explore your options.Help around Portland.
93 local listings. Contact the organization before visiting.
Explore this need across Maine-
Preble Street Food Programs
Food Security Hub: confirm pantry access: 75 Darling Avenue, South Portland, ME
Prepared meals and grocery support through Preble Street’s food programs. Meal distribution and pantry food boxes have different locations and access arrangements.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Listed meal distribution: daily, 12:30–2 p.m., at 28 Cotton Street, Portland. Confirm current details before traveling.
- Who this helps
- Ask Preble Street which meal or pantry option fits your situation. If you already work with a caseworker, ask whether they can arrange a food box through the pantry.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Wayside Food Programs
135 Walton St, Portland, ME 04103
Community meals and mobile food pantries at partner sites. Contact Wayside for locations and schedules.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Varies by site, call or visit waysidemaine.org
- Who this helps
- Open to anyone in Southern Maine experiencing food insecurity. Community meals are open to all. No income verification or documentation required. Mobile food pantries specifically target neighborhoods where residents face barriers to other food resources due to transportation or mobility challenges.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Salvation Army Food Pantry
297 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Food pantry providing groceries to Portland-area residents by appointment. Client-choice model lets you select your own food, including fresh proteins and culturally appropriate options. Case management and clothing vouchers also available.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Call (207) 774-4172 to schedule
- Who this helps
- Serves residents of Portland, South Portland, Scarborough, Cape Elizabeth, Westbrook, and Falmouth. Clients can access the food pantry once per month. You must call ahead to schedule an appointment.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Portland Homeless Services Center
654 Riverside St, Portland, ME 04103
Emergency shelter for adults in Portland, with meals, on-site healthcare and help finding housing.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Shelter operates 24/7. Call to confirm intake arrangements.
- Who this helps
- For adults experiencing homelessness.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Florence House
190 Valley St, Portland, ME 04102
Emergency shelter and permanent supportive housing for women experiencing homelessness. 24-hour staffing, low-barrier access. Call at 1:00 PM to check bed availability. No waiting list.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- 24 hours, 365 days a year
- Who this helps
- Open to adult women (age 21 and older) who identify as female and are experiencing homelessness. The facility is low-barrier. Florence House does not take referrals from providers and does not maintain a waiting list for emergency beds.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Avesta Housing
307 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Northern New England's largest nonprofit affordable housing provider with 3,200+ apartments across 100+ properties. Applications accepted for waitlist. Also offers housing counseling and homebuyer education.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon/Wed/Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (walk-in); Tue/Thu by appointment
- Who this helps
- Eligibility varies by property. Generally, household income must be at or below 50-80% of the area Median Family Income (set by HUD). Some properties are restricted to residents age 62+ or individuals with disabilities. Avesta serves residents across Maine and New Hampshire.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
LIHEAP - Fuel Assistance
50 Lydia Ln, South Portland, ME 04106
Federal fuel assistance program (HEAP) for Cumberland County. One-time seasonal payment to your heating fuel vendor. Covers oil, gas, electric, propane, kerosene, wood, and coal. Benefit amount based on household size and income.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Who this helps
- Available to low-income homeowners and renters in Cumberland County. Household income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level or 60% of State Median Income, whichever is higher. There is no asset limit. Benefits are based on household size, income, and energy costs.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Keep ME Warm Fund
1 Canal Plaza, Portland, ME 04101
Statewide emergency heating assistance for households that have exhausted other fuel programs like HEAP. Fills the gap when LIHEAP benefits run out. Call 2-1-1 to get connected with help.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- 2-1-1 available 24/7
- Who this helps
- Designed for Maine households that may not be eligible for, or have already exhausted, federal and state fuel assistance programs like HEAP. Funds are distributed through Community Action Agencies, which determine eligibility.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Portland Recovery Community Center
102 Bishop St, Portland, ME 04103
Peer-led recovery support center. Drop-in hours, 53+ weekly support groups, recovery coaching, wellness activities, and community events. All pathways to recovery welcome. No judgment, no barriers.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Sat 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to anyone in recovery from substance use disorder or other addictions, as well as family members and allies affected by addiction. All services are free. No referral, insurance, or appointment needed.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Sweetser Mental Health Services
329 Bath Rd, Brunswick, ME 04011 (serves Portland area)
Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic providing outpatient counseling, psychiatric services, crisis stabilization, and peer support for children, adolescents, and adults. Accepts MaineCare and most insurance. Sliding scale for uninsured.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM; Peer center walk-in 10 AM - 3 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to anyone seeking help for a mental health or substance use condition, regardless of diagnosis, place of residence, or ability to pay. Accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance. Sliding scale fees available for those without insurance.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
217 Landing Rd, Westbrook, ME 04092
No-kill animal shelter caring for 4,000+ animals annually. Adoption, foster programs, low-cost spay/neuter clinic, vaccination clinics, and pet food bank for families in need. Founded in 1911 by Maine Governor Percival Baxter.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Tue, Thu 11 AM - 5 PM; Fri 11 AM - 6 PM; Sat-Sun 10 AM - 4 PM; Wed closed
- Who this helps
- Open to the general public. Adoption available to anyone who completes an application. Low-cost spay/neuter services available to income-qualifying pet owners. Pet food pantry and Ani-Meals on Wheels serve community members in need. ARLGP serves 15 communities in Southern Maine.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP)
222 St John St, Suite 206, Portland, ME 04102
Emergency fuel assistance for households facing an energy crisis, such as running out of fuel or facing utility shutoff. Up to $400 or 100 gallons for eligible Cumberland County households, November through April.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm (Nov 1 - Apr 30)
- Who this helps
- Cumberland County residents who are HEAP-eligible (income at or below 150% of federal poverty level) facing an energy emergency.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Milestone Recovery
65 India St, Portland, ME 04101
Emergency shelter, medically managed detox, and residential treatment for individuals experiencing substance use disorders, mental illness, and homelessness. Mobile outreach team serves people on the streets.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- 24/7 (shelter & detox); mobile outreach varies
- Who this helps
- Maine residents experiencing substance use disorders, homelessness, or mental health crises. Services provided regardless of ability to pay.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen
307 Congress St, Portland, ME 04101
Free hot meals served Monday through Friday. No questions asked, no ID required. Clothing also available on Fridays. One of Portland's longest-running meal programs.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 11:00am-12:30pm; clothing Fridays
- Who this helps
- Anyone in need. No ID, income, or residency requirements.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
South Portland Food Cupboard
130 Thadeus St, South Portland, ME 04106
Free food pantry serving South Portland, Cape Elizabeth, Scarborough, and surrounding communities. Open multiple days per week with no eligibility requirements.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Tue 10am-11:30am; Thu 8:30am-11am; 1st Wed 5pm-6:30pm
- Who this helps
- Anyone in need. No ID, income, or residency requirements.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
ARLGP Pet Food Pantry
217 Landing Rd, Westbrook, ME 04092
Free pet food and supplies for anyone struggling to feed their pets. Open three days per week. Also partners with Meals on Wheels to deliver pet food to homebound seniors.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Tue, Thu & Sun 3pm-5pm
- Who this helps
- Anyone struggling to afford pet food. No income verification.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Portland Housing Authority
970 Baxter Boulevard, 3rd Floor, Portland, ME 04103
Administers Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing for low-income families, elderly, and disabled residents. Manages nearly 2,000 vouchers and multiple housing developments across Portland.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Household income must be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income based on family size. Must have U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Community Housing of Maine (CHOM)
1 City Center, 4th Floor, Portland, ME 04101
Maine's largest supportive housing provider, developing and maintaining over 1,025 units of affordable housing for people experiencing homelessness, veterans, working families, and older Mainers.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Eligibility varies by property and program. Generally serves low-income individuals and families, people experiencing homelessness, veterans, and those with special needs.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Shalom House
106 Gilman Street, Portland, ME 04102
Provides supportive housing and community-based mental health services for adults living with severe mental illness. Owns and operates 26 buildings including group homes, rooming houses, and apartments.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Serves adults with severe and persistent mental illness. Referrals typically come through Maine behavioral health system, hospitals, or other service providers.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Spurwink Services
Administrative and mailing office: 6 Ashley Drive, Scarborough, ME 04074
Provides behavioral health care, substance use disorder services, and support for people of all ages. Specializes in youth and family mental health, autism services, and residential treatment for children in crisis.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Serves people of all ages. Many programs accept MaineCare (Medicaid) and private insurance. Contact Spurwink for intake screening.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Catholic Charities Maine Refugee & Immigration Services
80 Sherman Street, Portland, ME 04101
Maine's only authorized refugee resettlement agency, providing housing placement, English language training, employment assistance, and case management for refugees and asylum seekers arriving in Portland.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Who this helps
- Serves refugees referred through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, granted asylees, and asylum seekers in the Portland area. No immigration status documentation required for initial contact.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Greater Portland Health
180 Park Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Federally Qualified Health Center integrating behavioral health with primary care. Licensed clinical social workers on every care team. Sliding scale fees based on income. No one turned away for inability to pay.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by location)
- Who this helps
- Open to everyone regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Accepts Medicare, MaineCare, and most private insurance. Sliding scale fees available for uninsured patients based on income. Specialized services for refugees, immigrants, and people experiencing homelessness.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
MaineHealth Food Pantry
950 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102
Hospital-based food pantry at Maine Medical Center open to any community member. Offers fresh produce, proteins, dairy, and pantry staples. Walk in, no appointment, no ID, no proof of income required. Free parking at St. John Street entrance.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Thursdays 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to anyone experiencing food insecurity. No ID, income verification, or documentation required. You do not need to be a MaineHealth patient.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Amistad Peer Support Center
297 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Maine's largest peer community, operating since 1982. Free drop-in center for adults struggling with mental illness, substance use, or other life challenges. Offers peer support, meals, showers, laundry, and recovery-focused activities.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Tue–Thu 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (call to confirm)
- Who this helps
- Open to any adult (18+) experiencing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, or other life difficulties. No referral, insurance, or documentation required. Completely free.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Day One
343 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Substance use and mental health treatment for teens, young adults, and families. Outpatient counseling, residential treatment, case management, and outreach to homeless youth under 21. Free confidential consultations available.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Serves youth, young adults, and families. Sliding fee scale based on income. Accepts MaineCare, private insurance, and self-pay. No one is turned away for inability to pay.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Friends of Feral Felines
651 Forest Ave, 2nd Floor, Portland, ME 04103
Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program reducing the feral cat population humanely in Cumberland and York counties since 1993. Also operates a barn cat relocation program and has adoptable cats available.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Call for appointment and program hours
- Who this helps
- TNR program available for feral and stray cats in Cumberland and York counties. Adoptable cats available to approved adopters. Barn cat program available for farms and properties needing working cats.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Greater Portland Health
180 Park Ave, Portland, ME 04102
Integrated family practice offering primary care, dental, behavioral health, and substance use treatment on a sliding fee scale regardless of ability to pay.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to all patients regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Sliding fee scale available based on household income and size. Accepts MaineCare, Medicare, and most private insurance.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Portland Community Free Clinic
39 Forest Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Provides free primary care to uninsured, low-income adults in Cumberland County. All services at no charge.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Thu 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Fri 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM; evening clinics 6-8 PM
- Who this helps
- Uninsured adults ages 18-65 living in Cumberland or York County. Must not qualify for MaineCare or other insurance programs. No documentation required to receive care.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Pine Tree Legal Assistance - Portland
88 Federal St, Portland, ME 04101
Free civil legal help for low-income Mainers including housing, benefits, family law, and consumer issues.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Walk-in: Mon & Wed 9 AM - 12 PM; Phone: Mon 12-3 PM, Tue & Thu 9 AM - 12 PM
- Who this helps
- Must be low-income (generally at or below 200% of the federal poverty level). Priority given to cases involving basic human needs: housing, safety, income, healthcare.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Maine Volunteer Lawyers Project
75 Pearl St, Portland, ME 04101
Free legal information, assistance, and representation for low-income people facing civil legal issues through volunteer attorneys.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Must be low-income. Cases accepted based on available volunteer attorneys and case merit.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP)
489 Congress St, 3rd Floor, Portland, ME 04101
Free and low-cost immigration legal assistance for low-income Maine residents including asylum, family petitions, and citizenship.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (by appointment only)
- Who this helps
- Low-income Maine residents with immigration legal needs. All services by appointment only.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Maine CareerCenter - Portland
151 Jetport Blvd, Portland, ME 04102
Free employment and training services including job search assistance, resume help, career counseling, and access to job listings.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Thu 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to all Maine residents. No income requirements for most services. Some training programs have specific eligibility criteria.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Goodwill Workforce Solutions
190 Lancaster St, Suite 200, Portland, ME 04101
Free career advising, job training, digital skills, and employment support to help overcome barriers to work.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to adults and youth facing barriers to employment. Free services. Contact to discuss eligibility.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
New Mainers Resource Center
14 Locust St, Portland, ME 04101
Job search help, English classes, career training, and credential recognition for immigrants and refugees in Maine.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Immigrants and refugees living in Maine. Free services regardless of immigration status.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Greater Portland METRO
114 Valley St, Portland, ME 04102
Public bus service throughout Portland, South Portland, Westbrook, and Falmouth. Express BREEZ service to Brunswick.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Sat (routes vary); no Sunday service on most routes
- Who this helps
- Open to everyone. Reduced fares for seniors (65+), people with disabilities, and Medicare cardholders. Children under 5 ride free.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Preble Street Clothing Closet
252 Oxford St, Portland, ME 04101
Free seasonal clothing and household items for anyone experiencing homelessness or financial hardship. No documentation required.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Daily 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to anyone experiencing homelessness or financial hardship. No ID, documentation, or proof of income required.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Maine Needs
2385 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102
Distributes donated clothing, hygiene products, household items and other essentials to individuals and families statewide through partner agencies.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Tue 10 AM-1 PM & 6-8 PM; Thu 10 AM-1 PM; Sat 10 AM-12 PM
- Who this helps
- Individuals and families in need. Most distributions happen through partner social service agencies. Check website or call for current availability.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Salvation Army - Portland
297 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Food pantry, clothing vouchers, diapers, and referrals for Cumberland County residents experiencing financial hardship.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Cumberland County residents experiencing financial hardship.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Southern Maine Diaper Bank
Portland, ME (distributed through partner agencies)
Free diapers distributed through partner agencies across southern Maine for families who cannot afford them.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Distribution through partner agencies during their hours
- Who this helps
- Families in need of diapers. No income verification required at most distribution sites.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Goodwill Store & Donation Center - Portland
353 Warren Ave, Portland, ME 04103
Low-cost clothing and household items. Partner Stability Fund provides free vouchers through local nonprofits for people in crisis.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Sat 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Sun 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Store open to everyone. Free vouchers available through partner nonprofits for people in crisis. Ask your case worker.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
UNE Oral Health Center
716 Stevens Ave, Portland, ME 04103
Dental school clinic offering reduced-cost dental care including cleanings, fillings, root canals, dentures, and implants. Care provided by supervised dental students.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to the public. Accepts Northeast Delta Dental and MaineCare. Payment expected at time of service.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Community Dental - Portland
190 Park Avenue, Portland, ME 04102
Nonprofit dental clinic with sliding-fee scale for low-income patients. Accepts MaineCare. Full range of dental services.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Who this helps
- Accepts MaineCare. Sliding fee scale available based on income and family size.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Clinics at Maine Law
300 Fore Street, Portland, ME 04101
Free legal representation by supervised law students in civil, criminal, juvenile, and family law matters. Serves 600+ individuals annually.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Intake: Mon 12–2:30 PM, Tue & Thu 9–11:30 AM
- Who this helps
- Low-income individuals. Must meet financial guidelines. Primarily serves York, Cumberland, Sagadahoc, and Androscoggin counties.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Catholic Charities Immigration Services
80 Sherman Street, Portland, ME 04101
DOJ-recognized immigration legal services for refugees and asylees. Help with immigration proceedings, resettlement, and documentation.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- By appointment, call to schedule
- Who this helps
- Refugees and persons granted asylum in Maine. Cannot assist with asylum applications or deportation defense.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland, ME 04101
Free HiSET/GED preparation, ESL classes, workforce training, and academic programs. Maine's largest adult education program serving 3,000+ students annually.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Call for class schedule
- Who this helps
- Open to adults needing high school completion, equivalency, ESL, or workforce training.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Opportunity Alliance Head Start
50 Monument Square, Portland, ME 04101
Free Head Start and Early Head Start programs for income-eligible families. Early childhood education for children ages 0–5.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Call for program schedule
- Who this helps
- Income-based (federal poverty guidelines). Priority for families receiving TANF, SSI, or experiencing homelessness or foster care. Children ages 0–5.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maine
277 Cumberland Avenue, Portland, ME 04101
After-school and summer programs for ages 7–18. Only $5 annual membership. No child turned away for inability to pay.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon–Fri 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Ages 7–18. $5 annual membership fee. No child turned away for inability to pay.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Furniture Friends
P.O. Box 7894, Portland, ME 04112
Free furniture delivery to low-income individuals and families in Southern Maine. Referral from a social service agency required.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Call for availability
- Who this helps
- Low-income individuals and families. Must be referred by a participating social service agency. Cannot self-refer.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
JCA Diaper Bank
1342 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04102
Southern Maine's first and largest diaper bank. Free diapers and wipes distributed directly to families and through 12+ partner agencies.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Call for distribution schedule
- Who this helps
- Families in need of diapers. Can access directly or through partner agencies.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Preble Street Teen Center
343 Cumberland Avenue, Portland, ME 04101
Drop-in center for youth ages 12–21. Free clothing, three meals daily, crisis support, health services, and educational programs.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Daily 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Youth and young adults ages 12–21.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Mainely Pets Foundation
174 US Route One, Falmouth, ME 04105
Nonprofit providing financial grants for veterinary care to Maine pet owners experiencing financial hardship or trauma. Apply through their website.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Application-based, apply online
- Who this helps
- Maine pet owners experiencing financial hardship. Must submit an application.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
RTP Rides
1 Ledgeview Drive, Westbrook, ME 04092
RTP provides low-cost transportation to elderly, disabled, economically disadvantaged individuals, and the general public throughout Cumberland County. Also runs the Lakes Region Explorer route between Bridgton and Portland.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri, call for schedule
- Who this helps
- Open to the general public. Priority service for elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals throughout Cumberland County.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
YMCA of Southern Maine Childcare
70 Forest Avenue, Portland, ME 04101
The YMCA of Southern Maine provides toddler care, before and after school programs, and school-age childcare for kindergarten through 5th grade. Multiple locations across southern Maine with financial assistance available.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri, hours vary by program
- Who this helps
- Open to all families. Financial assistance and DHHS subsidies accepted. Income-based sliding scale available.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Youth & Family Outreach
331 Cumberland Avenue, Portland, ME 04101
Youth & Family Outreach provides full-day, year-round early care and education for children aged six weeks to five years in Greater Portland. Supports families by helping children thrive while caregivers work or complete education.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 7:00am-5:00pm
- Who this helps
- Open to families with children ages 6 weeks to 5 years in the Greater Portland area. Accepts DHHS childcare subsidies.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
St. Elizabeth's Child Development Center
87 High Street, Portland, ME 04101
St. Elizabeth's is a Star 5-rated child development center with over 50 years of experience in early childhood education. Accepts DHHS subsidies, ASPIRE vouchers, and Child Development Services clients.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri, call for hours
- Who this helps
- Open to all families. Accepts DHHS subsidies, ASPIRE vouchers, CDS referrals, and private pay.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
ACLU of Maine
121 Middle Street, Suite 200, Portland, ME 04101
The ACLU of Maine defends constitutional rights and civil liberties for all Mainers. Provides legal advocacy in cases involving free speech, privacy, discrimination, immigrant rights, criminal justice reform, and government accountability.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri, business hours
- Who this helps
- Cases must involve civil liberties or constitutional rights issues. Submit a written request (max 1 page) by mail or online form.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
The Opportunity Alliance - HEAP
222 St. John Street, Portland, ME 04102
Cumberland County's community action agency providing HEAP fuel assistance and emergency heating through the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP). Helps eligible homeowners and renters pay annual heating expenses.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri; call for appointment
- Who this helps
- Cumberland County residents. Income-based eligibility. Must apply through appointment. ECIP available to HEAP-eligible households facing a heating emergency.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Maine Pretrial Services Reentry Program
76 Elm Street, Portland, ME 04104
Reentry services for people leaving the criminal justice system, including employment support, housing assistance, and treatment court programs across eleven Maine counties.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Individuals involved in the Maine criminal justice system. Referrals typically come through courts, probation officers, or corrections.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Social Security Administration - Portland Office
1355 Congress St, Floor 2, Portland, ME 04102
Federal office for applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Handles disability benefit applications, appeals, and ongoing benefit management.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Who this helps
- For SSDI: Workers who have paid Social Security taxes and have a medical condition expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSI: Individuals with limited income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65+.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Portland VA Clinic
141 West Commercial St, Portland, ME 04102
VA outpatient clinic in Portland providing primary care, mental health, and specialty services for enrolled veterans in southern Maine. Walk-in same-day access available.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Preble Street Veterans Housing Services
38 Preble St, Portland, ME 04101
Statewide housing program for homeless and at-risk veterans through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. Provides rapid rehousing, homelessness prevention, case management, and connection to VA benefits.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Who this helps
- Veterans and veteran families who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness. Must meet income eligibility requirements (generally below 50% area median income).
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Goodwill NNE Workforce Solutions
56 Northport Drive, Suite 202, Portland, ME 04103
Goodwill NNE pairs participants with career advisors and life navigators to help find employment, build skills, and overcome barriers like transportation, child care, and financial challenges.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon, Thu-Sat 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to all job seekers including unemployed, under-employed, new to the country, recently laid off, or young adults without a college degree.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Portland Adult Education
14 Locust Street, Portland, ME 04101
Maine's largest adult education program offers free HiSET preparation, ESL classes, college transition support, job skills training, and on-site HiSET testing.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Thu 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM; Fri 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Adults age 17+ not enrolled in high school. Academic programs are free. All are welcome regardless of immigration status.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Literacy Volunteers of Maine
142 High Street, Suite 526, Portland, ME 04101
Statewide network of 14 community-based affiliates providing free, confidential, one-on-one tutoring for adults who need help with reading, writing, math, and English language skills.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (statewide office); tutoring schedules vary
- Who this helps
- Any adult in Maine who wants to improve reading, writing, math, or English language skills. Free and confidential.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine
277 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
After-school and summer programs for youth ages 7-18 at multiple locations in Portland, South Portland, and Auburn. Programs include homework help, arts, athletics, swimming, and nutritious meals in a safe environment.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri, after school to 7:00 PM (varies by location)
- Who this helps
- Youth ages 7-18. Membership fees are kept low to ensure accessibility. Financial assistance and scholarships are available for families who need help with fees. No child is turned away due to inability to pay.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Maine
PO Box 123, Westbrook, ME 04098
Youth mentoring program serving southern Maine, matching children with caring adult mentors through community-based and school-based programs.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Children and youth who could benefit from a positive mentoring relationship. Contact the organization by phone or through their website to learn about enrollment. Both community-based and school-based mentoring options are available.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
The Salvation Army Portland
297 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Provides clothing vouchers, food pantry, diapers, and referrals through a social services case worker. The thrift store at 30 Warren Ave offers affordable clothing and household items. Assistance available to Cumberland County residents.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (closed 12:00 - 1:00 PM for lunch)
- Who this helps
- Residents of Cumberland County, Maine. Social services assistance is available on a walk-in basis during office hours. Some programs may have additional requirements. Contact the office for specific program eligibility.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Preble Street Resource Center
252 Oxford St, Portland, ME 04101
Day shelter and resource center providing free clothing from the clothing closet, meals, case management, and healthcare access for individuals experiencing homelessness or financial hardship in the Portland area.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Sat-Sun 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to anyone experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or financial hardship. No identification or documentation required. Services are barrier-free.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
KJFS Diaper Bank
1342 Congress St, Portland, ME 04102
The first and largest diaper bank in southern Maine, distributing diapers and wipes to families in need on a bi-monthly basis through the Michael Klahr Jewish Family Services program.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Call to arrange pickup or distribution schedule
- Who this helps
- Families in southern Maine experiencing diaper insecurity. Call 207-772-1959 and leave a message. KJFS staff will return your call. Interpreter services are available as needed.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Portland
659 Warren Avenue, Portland, ME 04103
Builds affordable homes for Cumberland County families. Also operates a ReStore selling donated building materials at discount.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Families meeting income and willingness-to-partner criteria.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Salvation Army Portland - Heating Assistance
297 Cumberland Ave, Portland, ME 04101
Emergency heating fuel and utility assistance for Cumberland County residents.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Cumberland County residents facing heating crisis. Case-by-case.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Gateway Community Services Maine
501 Forest Avenue, Portland, ME 04103
Workforce support for immigrant, refugee, and asylee communities. Workforce navigator matches individuals with employers and training.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to all, focus on immigrants/refugees/asylum seekers.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
ProsperityME: Center for Financial Education
175 Lancaster Street, Suite 216A, Portland, ME 04101
Nonprofit providing financial literacy classes, credit counseling, and debt management. Specializes in serving New Mainers including refugees and immigrants, but open to all.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to all. Specializes in serving refugees, immigrants, and New Mainers.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Salvation Army - Portland
297 Cumberland Avenue, Portland, ME 04101
Provides emergency financial assistance for rent and electric bills, plus a food pantry, clothing vouchers, and diapers for low-income Cumberland County residents in crisis.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (closed 12:00 - 1:00 PM)
- Who this helps
- Low-income Cumberland County residents in need.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Catholic Charities Maine
307 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101
Provides emergency financial help, food assistance, and counseling for individuals and families in crisis. Also operates a statewide Parish Social Ministry referral network across Maine.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Individuals and families in crisis. Contact for specific criteria. Open to people of all faiths.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
LearningWorks
181 Brackett Street, Portland, ME 04102
Community education nonprofit providing free English language and literacy tutoring for immigrants and refugees, plus YouthBuild (ages 16-24) combining HiSET prep with construction skills training.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Contact for current schedule
- Who this helps
- Adults, youth ages 16-24, immigrants, and refugees in southern Maine.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Spurwink Services
Administrative and mailing office: 6 Ashley Drive, Scarborough, ME 04074
Provides behavioral health, autism and intellectual disability supports, substance use treatment, vocational rehabilitation, and specialized employment training for people of all ages.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Contact for hours
- Who this helps
- People of all ages with autism, intellectual disabilities, behavioral health conditions, or substance use disorders.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Goodwill NNE NeuroRehab Services
75 Washington Avenue, 3rd Floor, Portland, ME 04101
Beyond retail, Goodwill NNE operates 16 group homes for adults with disabilities, brain injury rehabilitation clinics (BaySide NeuroRehab), community support, and vocational programs.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Contact for program-specific hours
- Who this helps
- Adults with intellectual disabilities, brain injuries, or deaf/hard of hearing with intellectual disability. Varies by program.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Elder Abuse Institute of Maine
93 Exchange Street, Portland, ME 04101
Provides safety and support for older adults experiencing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. Operates Martha's Cottage (confidential transitional housing for abuse victims 60+) and the 'A Helping Voice' warm line.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Mainers age 60+ who are being abused, neglected, or financially exploited.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Full Circle Adoptions
225 Commercial St, 3rd Floor, Suite 300, Portland, ME 04101
Hague-accredited nonprofit adoption agency in Portland specializing in domestic adoption. Provides comprehensive services to birth parents, prospective adoptive parents, and adoptees throughout the US and internationally.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM
- Who this helps
- Open to prospective adoptive parents nationwide. Birth parents receive free, confidential counseling. Contact the agency for specific program requirements.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Youth Leadership Advisory Team (YLAT)
34 Bedford St, Portland, ME 04101
Leadership and advocacy program for youth ages 14-23 who are or have been in foster care in Maine. Provides peer connections, leadership development, advocacy training, and resources for transitioning out of foster care including housing, education, and employment support.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM
- Who this helps
- Open to youth ages 14-23 who are currently in or have previously been in foster care in Maine.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Pine Tree Recovery Center
17 Bishop Street, Portland, ME 04103
Medically supervised drug and alcohol detoxification and outpatient treatment. 24/7 nursing support, medication-assisted treatment, CBT, and relapse prevention. Virtual adolescent program available for ages 13-17.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- 24/7 admissions line
- Who this helps
- Adults and adolescents (13-17, virtual program) struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. Insurance accepted.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Foundation House
160 Preble Street, Portland, ME 04101
Men's mental health and substance abuse treatment center with over 24 years of operation. Licensed intensive outpatient program, sober living in three furnished residences, experiential therapies, and job support.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Call for intake
- Who this helps
- Adult men seeking substance abuse treatment or mental health support. Assessment required for admission.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
St. Elizabeth's Jubilee Center Essentials Pantry
134 Park Avenue, Portland, ME 04101
Non-barrier essentials pantry serving 250+ neighbors every Tuesday. Distributes clothing, shoes, hygiene products, diapers, linens, and household items that cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Tuesdays 8:30 - 11:00 AM
- Who this helps
- Open to anyone in need. No barriers, no ID, no income verification required.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
The Iris Network
189 Park Avenue, Portland, ME 04101
Statewide nonprofit serving people who are blind or visually impaired since 1905. Services include low vision clinic, vision rehabilitation therapy, orientation and mobility training, access technology, employment services, and supportive housing at Iris Park Apartments.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Monday - Friday, call for hours
- Who this helps
- People who are blind or visually impaired, statewide.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Easterseals Maine
125 Presumpscot Street, Portland, ME 04103
Programs for individuals with autism, developmental, physical, and mental disabilities. Includes early intervention, physical/occupational/speech therapy, job training, youth transition services, and military/veterans support.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Monday - Friday, call for hours
- Who this helps
- Individuals with disabilities of all ages. Programs vary by eligibility; call for details.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
The Iris Network
189 Park Avenue, Portland, ME 04102
Statewide vision rehabilitation and independent living services for Mainers who are blind or visually impaired. Founded in 1905.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- Who this helps
- Mainers of any age who are blind or visually impaired. Many services free or covered by insurance and MaineCare.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Ronald McDonald House Portland
250 Brackett Street, Portland, ME 04102
Free or low-cost lodging for families of seriously ill children receiving treatment at Maine Medical Center and Barbara Bush Children's Hospital.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- 24/7 for guest families; office Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Families of children up to age 21 receiving medical care at Maine Medical Center, Barbara Bush Children's Hospital, or other partner facilities. Referrals come from hospital social workers.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Maine Immigrants' Rights Coalition
1 Marginal Way, 2nd Floor, Portland, ME 04101
Statewide coalition of organizations supporting immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in Maine. Operates a multilingual resource hub and hotline connecting immigrants with legal, housing, health, and benefits help.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Open to immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and the organizations that serve them statewide.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Equality Community Center
15 Casco Street, Portland, ME 04101
Maine's first LGBTQ+ community center, hosting EqualityMaine, SAGE Maine, and other allied nonprofits. Offers community space, programming, and support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; some evening events
- Who this helps
- Open to all members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies in Maine.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Hope Acts
14 Sherman Street, Portland, ME 04101
Transitional housing for asylum seekers at Hope House plus the Asylum Seeker Assistance Program and English language classes for immigrants in Portland.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Asylum seekers and immigrants in the Greater Portland area. Hope House residency is by referral and application.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
In Her Presence
4 Milk Street, Suite 201, Portland, ME 04101
Immigrant women-led nonprofit providing workforce development, leadership training, mentoring, and health and wellness programs for immigrant women in Maine.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Immigrant women and their families living in Maine.
Confirm details with the organization.
-
Maine Access Immigrant Network (MAIN)
237 Oxford Street, Portland, ME 04101
Culturally and linguistically tailored health navigation, case management, in-house dental care, and vaccine clinics for immigrant communities in Greater Portland.
Hours & eligibility
- Listed hours
- Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Who this helps
- Immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers living in the Greater Portland area. Services available in multiple languages.
Confirm details with the organization.
These listings include nearby communities. Hours, locations, and eligibility can change. Call to check which service fits your situation.
Make the first step a little easier.
You don’t need all the answers before reaching out.
Start with a call.
Explain what you need and ask whether the program serves your town or household.
Check where to go.
A mailing address may differ from the service location. Confirm the place, hours, and any appointment.
Ask what to bring.
Check which documents are needed. Mention language, mobility, or transportation needs when you call.
Portland photo: Anat Morad / Pexels.