ANNAPOLIS (Nov. 25, 2008) –- Maryland has launched a new website designed to be a one-stop shopping resource for families in need of economic assistance. The site, problemsolver.maryland.gov, was announced by Governor Martin O’Malley on Tuesday.
“We have seen our share of challenges with a downturn in the national economy and a national mortgage crisis. This hasn’t been an easy year and far too many Maryland families are struggling to make ends meet,” said Governor O’Malley. “We know that these winter months, and these uncertain economic times will not be easy for many Maryland families, but it is our hope that this webpage will help Marylanders gain access to programs and services available to them if they qualify.”
Marylanders can go to http://www.problemsolver.maryland.gov/ to find information on a range of services from heating and energy assistance, to employment assistance – including job training and unemployment services – to services for seniors and those living with disabilities. The webpage also provides a link to an assistance eligibility calculator, which helps Marylanders determine what services they may qualify for, such as food stamps, the Temporary Cash Assistance program, Medical Assistance, the Maryland Energy Assistance Program, and the Electric Universal Service Program, among others.
Marylanders looking for information on heating or utility assistance can click on the utilities and energy icon to find information and resources on programs such as weatherization assistance, telephone services, and utility service protection in addition to the Maryland Energy Assistance program and the Electric Universal Service Program. The webpage also provides information for job seekers, including links to local employment agencies, vocational training centers, and information on unemployment compensation and how to file a claim. Information for senior citizens including in home aide services, assisted living programs, respite and attendant care, medical assistance and prescription drug price assistance is also available on the site.
Marylanders looking to finance a college education can click on the Education icon and will find a number of State resources on financial aid, scholarships, and college savings plans. Maryland’s veterans can find information on education and training programs, scholarships, employment opportunities and other benefits available to them. Marylanders looking for ways to cut costs on driving to work can click on the Transportation icon to find information on ridesharing information, information and incentives on using mass transit and vanpooling to work, and information on discounts for students and seniors.
The announcement comes one day after Governor O’Malley announced a partnership with Share Our Strength to end childhood hunger in Maryland within five years. The partnership aims to increase enrollment in food assistance programs, including the School Food and Nutrition Program, the Summer Food Service Program, the Child and Adult Care Food Program, all of which are administered by the State Department of Education, and the Food Supplement program, which is administered by the Department of Human Resources.