Avec Community Action

11/02/2026

Just a reminder that WIC food package changes take effect today. It may take a few days for the changes to be accurately reflected in stores, but the product listings in the WIC Shopper app are up to date. If you have questions, contact your local WIC office.
Aroostook County: (207) 764-3721
Hancock or Washington County: (207) 610-9151

11/02/2026

The Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) is now open for eligible households experiencing a heating emergency.
To qualify, you must: ✅ Be HEAP eligible ✅ Have an emergent heating need (for example, being at or below ¼ tank of oil or kerosene)
⚠️ All required proof and documentation must be provided before assistance can be approved. If you have not yet completed a HEAP appointment, you will need to complete one and submit all required documentation within 3 business days to qualify for ECIP.
Our team will process applications as quickly as possible, and we appreciate your patience as demand has increased during this heating season. We would like to remind everyone that our team is processing applications as quickly as possible and working in the order in which the requests are received.

10/30/2026

🔆 Board Member Spotlight 🔆
Board member Catherine Kent brings legal expertise and a strong commitment to community service to the board of Avec Community Action. She earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Notre Dame and a law degree from the University of Chicago. Kent is an attorney with Alley, Maass, Rogers & Lindsay P.A. Her professional experience offers valuable insight into governance, public policy and the legal issues affecting individuals, families and communities.
In addition to her board service with Avec Community Action, Kent is actively involved with the Advancement Committee at The Bay School in Blue Hill, helping to support the school's mission and long-term growth. Her commitment to community involvement reflects her dedication to strengthening organizations that serve Maine residents.
In her spare time, Kent enjoys boating, skiing and hiking. Her appreciation for the outdoors and active community engagement complement the perspective and leadership she brings to the board.

10/29/2026

The most recent Community in Action radio segment on Star 97.7 once again features Aging Services Coordinator Anne Ossanna, who is based at Friendship Cottage in Blue Hill. Anne provides great information about how Friendship Cottage helps families and what services look like for participants. Tune in on Friday mornings at 6:45 and 8:45 for the latest community action news or listen anytime on the Star 97.7 website: https://star977fm.com/index.php/community-action/

10/26/2026

Friday was a busy day! It also marked the official opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for our partnership with Easton Community School. This represents work with many partners, including the Easton School Department, the Town of Easton, United Way of Aroostook, Aroostook County Childcare Resource Center , and the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce. We are grateful for what we have accomplished, and we look forward to a bright future working with one another.

10/26/2026

Friday marked the official opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new childcare center at Northern Maine Community College. This milestone represents work with many partners. In addition to NMCC, we are grateful for the partnership of United Way of Aroostook , Aroostook County Childcare Resource Center, and the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce . We truly are stronger together, and we are looking forward to what we can accomplish with you in the future as help our neighbors and communities find a way forward.

10/24/2026

🔆 Board Member Spotlight 🔆
Board member January Pederson brings valuable perspective to the board through her experiences as a caregiver and parent. A high school graduate, Pederson works in private home care, where she provides support and assistance to individuals and families. This experience has strengthened her commitment to helping others and improving quality of life within the communities she serves.
Regarding her service with Avec Community Action, Pederson states, “I am very proud of this Community Action Agency, and proud to be a part of it.” Her dedication to the agency’s mission reflects her commitment to supporting children, families and individuals throughout the region.
In addition to her board service, Pederson is actively involved with Avec Community Action's Parent Policy Council, where she helps represent the interests and perspectives of families participating in agency programs. Her involvement provides an important voice for parents and community members.
In her spare time, Pederson enjoys going for walks and spending time with her children. Her experiences as a parent and caregiver bring practical insight and a strong commitment to service to the board.

10/23/2026

Limited supply of free fresh local veggies are now available at 771 Main St. Presque Isle Office. Thank you Mi'kmaq Farms & Fish Hatchery!!!

10/23/2026

Food package changes coming to WIC on November 2. if you have any questions, contact (207) 764-3721 in Aroostook County and (207) 610-9151 in Washington or Hancock counties.

10/20/2026

If your household has an extremely low supply of heating fuel, you may qualify for help through the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP). Households must complete a HEAP application to determine eligibility for crisis assistance.

📅 Please note: The 2026-2027 ECIP season does not begin until November 2, 2026.

For more information about HEAP and ECIP, visit: 🔗

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps qualified homeowners and renters pay for heating costs. Benefits include assistance with fuel costs and emergency fuel delivery. You can also qualify for energy-related repairs and utility payments if you are eligible for HEAP.Households are encouraged...