The 2016 USDA Equipment Assistance Grant process has begun. This year Maine has $89,380 in assistance funds to distribute. This is the fifth year the grants have been made available and as in past years, the funds will be distributed through a competitive grant process. The application form and related documents can be found here.
The application deadline is April 30. Incomplete or late entries will not be accepted. If your school has previously been selected to receive equipment assistance, you will not qualify.
The minimum equipment cost is $5000 to qualify and priority will be given to districts with 50 percent or more free and reduced price school lunches. Equipment costs may include delivery, taxes, and installation. The equipment included large appliances like dishwashers, ovens and refrigerator units.
The award monies are distributed on a reimbursement basis. If selected to receive assistance, the district purchases the equipment and is reimbursed by the state up to the amount awarded.
Questions regarding the grant process should be directed to Child Nutrition Specialist Andrew Hutchins at andrew.d.hutchins@maine.gov or call 624-6726.