Applying for a Grant:
In order to qualify
There must be a clear objective, related to a setback that threatens the quality of your life.
There must be a clearly demonstrated need for less than $1,000 to overcome this setback and achieve this objective.
The need must not be already incurred debt.
You have not received a YGAFF grant in the past.
You are willing to remain in contact with YGAFF to let us know how things work out.
Return application to sonya.connelly@healthyacadia.org
Frequently Asked Questions About Applying
What is the You’ve Got a Friend Fund (YGAF)?
The You’ve Got a Friend Fund is a barrier relief fund created to help people during moments of exceptional hardship. It offers one-time grants of less than $1,000 to address specific needs that can ease stress and help someone move forward.We know asking for help can feel difficult. This fund exists to offer support with dignity, care, and respect.
Is this fund right for me?
This fund may be a good fit if:
You live in Hancock County, Maine
You are experiencing a one-time hardship that feels hard to manage right now
A small amount of financial support could remove a barrier or help stabilize your situation
You have explored other options or supports first
Meeting this need would help you move forward without creating new debt
This fund will not be a fit if:
You are seeking help for an ongoing or long-term financial need like rent, utilities, or other monthly expenses.
You need help paying off existing debt
The expense has already been paid
The money must go to the applicant and not the vendor
The vendor cannot provide a precise quote before the work is completed.
If you’re unsure, you’re welcome to reach out and talk it through. You don’t need to have everything figured out before applying. Please call Sonya Connelly at 207-664-2129 or email sonya.connelly@healthyacadia.org.
What kinds of needs does the fund support?
YGAF supports specific, one-time needs that address an urgent barrier or hardship. These are situations where a one-time payment can make a meaningful, lasting difference.
What does the fund not cover?
To keep the fund sustainable and fair, YGAF is unable to:
Pay off existing debt,
Pay ongoing expenses like rent, bills, and typical car repairs
Reimburse expenses that have already been paid
Provide ongoing or long-term financial support
Provide cash directly to the applicants
How much funding can I request?
You may request up to $1,000. A quote, invoice, or link to the specific product must be included with your application.
Is this a last-resort fund?
Yes. Because funds are limited, YGAF is intended to be a last-resort option. We ask applicants to share what other community supports, agencies, or resources they have already looked into. This helps us understand the full picture.
How are grants paid?
Payment is made directly to the service provider, vendor, business, or organization supplying the approved service or item. Grants can not be paid directly to applicants.
Do I need to include a cost invoice/quote?
Yes. A written quote from the service provider or vendor must be included with your application. This helps us understand the cost and make decisions more quickly.
Will YGAF contact my service provider or vendor?
Yes. Applicants are asked to give permission for a YGAF representative to speak directly with the service provider and/or vendor to confirm details and coordinate payment if the grant is approved.
What financial information do I need to share?
Applicants are asked to provide basic financial information, such as:
Monthly income
Monthly expenses
Current debts
Whether they receive supports like SNAP, MaineCare, heating assistance, or SSDI