Maine

Maine offers a variety of food assistance and nutrition education programs specifically designed to support pregnant women and nursing mothers. Here are some key resources:

Food Assistance Programs

1. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program The WIC program provides comprehensive support to eligible pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, as well as infants and children up to age five. Services include Nutrition Education, Breastfeeding Support, Supplemental Healthy Foods, and Referrals to Healthcare and Social Services.

WIC food benefits encompass items like milk, cheese, eggs, cereals, peanut butter or dried beans, fruit or vegetable juices, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grain breads and tortillas. In the summer, vouchers are provided for fresh produce from Maine farmers. Women who exclusively breastfeed may receive additional foods, including canned fish.
Eligibility include Pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, as well as infants and children up to age five. Applicants must meet income guidelines, reside in Maine, and be determined to be at nutritional risk by a health professional. Learn more

1. Maine SNAP-Ed (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education)

Maine SNAP-Ed offers free nutrition education to income-eligible individuals and families, focusing on healthy eating and physical activity. Programs are available in various community settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, and community centers. Learn more

1. CradleME

CradleME is a free service that connects pregnant individuals and new parents with home-based or virtual support services, including nutrition education and breastfeeding support. It's a collaborative effort among various programs aimed at helping families thrive.

Food Banks and Pantries
Local food banks and pantries across Maine provide emergency food assistance to families in need.

1. Good Shepherd Food Bank: Offers a comprehensive Food Map to locate local food pantries and assistance programs.
2. Preble Street Food Pantry: Provides nourishing meals and food boxes to families and individuals in need.
3. TEFAP: The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is a federal program that helps supplement the diets of low-income Americans by providing them with emergency food assistance at no cost. It offers a list of food assistance programs by town.

Nutrition Education Programs

1. Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)

EFNEP provides nutrition education to limited-resource families with young children, focusing on healthy eating, food preparation, and budgeting. Services include Hands-on classes in meal planning, budgeting, and healthy cooking.
Contact your local University of Maine Cooperative Extension office to request a class.

1. Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP)

The FMNP allows WIC participants to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from authorized farmers' markets, promoting access to local, nutritious foods.
Eligibility: Must be a current WIC participant over 12 months old.
How to Participate: Receive FMNP vouchers from your WIC office and use them at participating farmers' markets. Learn More

For personalized assistance and to explore more resources, contacting 211 Maine by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting their website at 211 Maine is highly recommended.