• MeCAP reduces systemic poverty and improves the lives of Maine people through advocacy, programming, and collective action.

Building Stronger Maine Communities Together

Providing Mainers access to essential community services and support.

Maine Community Action Partnership (MeCAP) is a mission-driven network of independent Community Action Agencies. We seek to build a Maine where all people, regardless of income, have the opportunity to thrive.

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MeCAP Services

Empowering Maine’s communities for a better quality of life

Helping Mainers thrive and break generational barriers for a brighter future

Helping Mainers thrive and break generational barriers for a brighter future

Providing the tools and support Mainers need to build better lives. MeCAP’s core functions include:

  • Developing & advocating for public Policies that Address Systemic Poverty
  • Coordinating Shared Programs & Funding
  • Maintaining a Strong & Vibrant Network

“The parent ambassador program has opened new doors and given me the opportunity to make change where I want to make change. My voice is heard and strong because of the skills I have learned with PA.”

– Rajel Hippler

Key Metrics: What Poverty Looks Like in Maine

30,238
Maine Children living in poverty
Maine Children living in poverty
In FY24, community action agencies provided services to 26,416 Maine children.
10.9%
Overall poverty rate in the state of Maine. An estimated 146,000 Mainers are living at or below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
Our network assisted 117,677 Mainers last year – helping children become school-ready, people advance in their careers, seniors remain in their homes, employees access transportation to work, and families avoid crises such as eviction.
42,952
Mainers aged 60+ living in poverty
Mainers aged 60+ living in poverty
In FY24, community action agencies provided services to 33,124 older adults in Maine (age 60+)

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

MeCAP, or Maine Community Action Partnership, is the state association for Maine’s network of community action agencies. We work collectively to reduce systemic poverty and improve the lives of Maine people through advocacy, programming, and collaborative action. Our role is to strengthen and support the network so that every agency can better serve its community.

Our mission is to reduce systemic poverty and improve lives through advocacy, programming, and collective action. We believe that every Mainer should have the opportunity to thrive and reach financial self-sufficiency.

You can get involved by connecting with your local community action agency, participating in network-wide events, or supporting our advocacy initiatives. MeCAP offers opportunities to contribute to meaningful change and help build stronger communities across Maine.

MeCAP programs are designed to support individuals and families in Maine who are experiencing poverty or facing barriers to economic stability. Our network of community action agencies serves people of all ages and backgrounds, providing resources and opportunities that help them meet basic needs, access essential services, and work toward financial self-sufficiency. Whether someone is seeking housing assistance, energy support, childcare resources, or employment programs, our goal is to empower Mainers to improve their lives and strengthen their communities.

Communities Working Together

Together, we can end poverty in Maine.

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