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Pingree, Golden Announce More than $1.5 Million in AmeriCorps Grants for Maine Seniors, Foster Grandparents Programs

The new funding comes after President Trump failed to defund AmeriCorps, the federal agency for volunteerism and national service, earlier this year.

Washington, December 12, 2025

U.S. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Congressman Jared Golden (D-Maine) today welcomed $1.5 million in AmeriCorps grants for Seniors Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs in Maine. The funding will support 174 AmeriCorps members in collaboration with the Opportunity Alliance, Penquis, and the University of Maine System. 

“After the president’s attempts to eliminate AmeriCorps, and his abrupt cancellation of grants nationwide, I’m relieved to see federal funding for this vital volunteer program once again flowing into Maine to support our communities,” said Pingree. “Whether it’s helping children who need extra support or offering companionship to seniors who want to stay in their homes, these volunteers fill gaps that the government alone cannot. I’m grateful for their service and proud to see new federal resources headed to the organizations that make this work possible.”

“AmeriCorps is a win-win proposition: Mainers gain the opportunity to perform fulfilling public service and our communities reap the benefits of their hard work,” said Golden. “This batch of funding will set our children up for success while also empowering Maine’s aging population to live the lives they want. I’m happy that AmeriCorps' good work on both these fronts is getting the boost it deserves.”

The four grants totaling $1,501,632 will support organizations operating in South Portland, Bangor, and Orono. These include:

Foster Grandparent Program

  • $583,373 for the Opportunity Alliance (South Portland): supporting 65 volunteers

  • $399,717 for Penquis (Bangor): supporting 44 volunteers

Senior Companion Program

  • $128,237 for the Opportunity Alliance: supporting 25 volunteers

  • $390,305 for the University of Maine System (Orono): supporting 40 volunteers

Founded in 1965 to promote volunteerism and national service, AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency places more than 250,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in intensive service roles; and empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term, or one-time volunteers.

The AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program provides grants to engage Americans 55 and older in service that supports children and youth with special or exceptional needs. Across the country, Foster Grandparents serve in schools, Head Start centers, youth facilities, and other community-based settings. Volunteers provide critical support such as tutoring, mentoring, and emotional reassurance to help young people achieve their full potential. 

The AmeriCorps Seniors Senior Companion Program provides grants to engage Americans 55 and older in service that supports older adults who need assistance to remain independent. Senior Companions offer friendship, companionship, and support with daily tasks to help their clients stay in the homes and connected to their communities.

 

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