New United Way fund will help Mainers overcome transportation setbacks before they become financial crisis.
MAINE – After seeing a 90% increase in transportation-related requests through 211 Maine since 2020, United Way is launching Keep ME Moving, a new pilot project designed to help people overcome transportation setbacks so they can stay on the road to work, school, and life.
Made possible through support from the John T. Gorman Foundation, the new fund will provide assistance for small car repairs, bus passes, and Lyft rides. United Way expects high demand for a limited amount of funds each month and is accepting donations to Keep ME Moving.
Transportation emerged as a significant challenge in United Way’s recent survey of 3,159 Cumberland and York County residents. Findings from that survey, published in the Voice of Community Report, revealed that many households face barriers accessing employment, health care, child care, and other necessities because of transportation challenges.
One Southern Maine resident told United Way that a vehicle breakdown forced the postponement of a scheduled cataract surgery after transportation arrangements could not be secured in time. Living alone and working as an in-home support worker, the individual now relies on others for rides and worries that without repairs, they could lose access not only to medical care but also to the job that provides their income.
Stories like these reflect a challenge United Way heard repeatedly through community listening efforts. Without reliable transportation, other difficulties become harder to address.
“We know that nearly four in ten households in Southern Maine are struggling, and the people experiencing those challenges are the experts on what would make a difference in their lives,” said United Way of Southern Maine President and CEO Dan Coyne. “What we heard repeatedly was that a relatively small transportation problem could quickly spiral into a much larger crisis. A missed shift at work, a missed medical appointment, or an unexpected repair can make it harder for a family that’s already stretching every dollar.”
Nicole Witherbee, President & CEO of the John T. Gorman Foundation, said the program addresses a critical need facing Maine families.
“In a rural state like Maine, reliable transportation is essential to access education, employment, and critical services. For families living on tight margins, even a temporary loss of transportation can have serious consequences, including lost income or disruptions to child care,” said Witherbee. “This program offers a practical response to an urgent need across the state, providing flexible assistance to help Mainers stay connected to the services and opportunities their families depend on.”
A 2025 John T. Gorman Foundation report on transportation in Maine found that addressing transportation challenges will require both immediate support for families and longer-term policy solutions. Keep ME Moving is designed to help meet that immediate need.
Applicants are currently being accepted by referral from United Way non-profit and employer partners. Eligible individuals must live a county served by the three United Ways, be within the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) Income Threshold, and have a transportation related to one or more of the following areas:
- Medical, dental, or mental health appointments;
- Work or educational opportunity;
- Child care or school;
- Basic needs, such as groceries or pharmacy.
The fund is administered by United Way of Southern Maine in partnership with United Way of Aroostook.
About United Way of Southern Maine
United Way of Southern Maine mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we bring people and resources together to create a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential. Learn more at uwsme.org.
About John T. Gorman Foundation
The John T. Gorman Foundation is a private foundation based in Portland, Maine, with a mission to make Maine a more equitable place where all children and families can thrive. This focus reflects the recognition of our founder Tom Gorman that his personal success and achievement were largely derived from the support provided to him by his family and community, as well as his desire to provide those with fewer advantages opportunities to succeed.
For more information, visit www.jtgfoundation.org.