HOPE & PaS
As of May 1, 2026, JMG is no longer delivering student navigator services for the HOPE and PaS Programs.
Please send all HOPE or PaS-related updates, requests, and inquiries directly to the appropriate OFI programs.
HOPE may be reached at their email address: HOPE.DHHS@Maine.Gov and at their telephone number: 207-624-4170.
PaS-related matters may go directly to your Fedcap worker at the following email address: helpme@fedcap.org or by calling: 1-844-653-0316
Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment
The Higher Opportunity for Pathways to Employment Program is committed to helping parents and specified relatives reach their educational and career goals by helping cover costs related to school.
Do I Qualify?
Are a parent or specified relative of a minor child.
Meet the financial qualifications. Have been accepted to or are enrolled at least half-time in a qualifying training or education program beyond high school.
If you are enrolled less than half-time, HOPE Program needs to approve this.
Are not currently receiving, or someone in your family unit is not currently receiving, a monthly TANF or PaS cash benefit.
Are a U.S. citizen or eligible non-U.S. citizen. Many non-citizens are eligible.
Are a Maine resident between the ages of 16 through 64.
Do not already have a marketable bachelor's degree in Maine.
Are making satisfactory progress in your training or education program (based on your school's standards) and you are on track to graduate.
You might be eligible for the HOPE Program if you:
How HOPE may help
HOPE may assist qualifying parents with costs related to training and education including:
Tuition and fees
Prior tuition and fees preventing you from reenrolling in school
Books, supplies, tools, and equipment
Child care
Transportation
Auto repairs, registration, insurance, and inspection
Computer or other technology
Internet
Other costs related to school
PaS
Parents as Scholars
Parents as Scholars is a monthly benefit through Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) that helps parents and specified relatives working through a two- or four-year degree-granting program.
Do I Qualify?
You might be eligible for the PaS Program if you:
Are eligible for a TANF cash benefit
Are a Maine resident 16 and older
Are a parent or specified relative of a minor child who is living with you
Are a U.S. Citizen or non-citizen
Are attending or accepted into a 2- or 4-year education program beyond high school and are making satisfactory progress
Lack a bachelor's degree marketable in Maine
How PaS Can Help
PaS may assist qualifying parents with costs related to training and education including:
Tuition and fees
Prior tuition and fees preventing you from reenrolling in school
Books, supplies, tools, and equipment
Child care
Transportation
Internet
Auto repairs, registration, insurance, and inspection
Other costs related to school