Wabanaki Resource Code Card

This resource code card is designed to assist professionals in Maine who work with Native American children and youth. The card is intended to help identify problems affecting the lives of Native American children and youth and to provide direct resource information regarding benefits and services.

In its original form the code card is a six panel folding card that can be easily carried and used as a reference. We have expanded the information presented in the pocket code card for presentation on the internet. Use the left hand navigation bar to view specific resources. Click here for a .pdf copy of the pocket code card.

If you are looking for additonal resources that are not directed toward Native American children and youth in Maine, see our Resource Code Card.

General Tips

• Help families think about maximizing their income by applying for government benefits, such as food stamps, welfare, WIC, fuel assistance, social security disability, general assistance, MaineCare, etc.
• Encourage families to re-apply or request an appeal of services they were denied. Due to deadlines, have families appeal first and refer to an attorney second.
• Document need for services in child's/youth's records.
• Be willing to provide information to an attorney who is representing the minor child.
• Advise juvenile charged with offense to speak to an attorney before talking to the police.
• Make sure child is receiving an appropriate education.

Things To Look For:

• School failure, truancy, enrollment barrier, discipline issues
• Lack of appropriate special education services
• Lack of appropriate medical/mental health services
• Abuse (victim or witness)
• Exposure to unsafe living conditions
• Risk of eviction/homelessness
• Lack of income or food; poor nutrition
• Risk of removal from home (DHHS or DOC)