OXFORD COUNTY RESOURCES

General Resources

SeniorsPlus - Located in Lewiston, serves as the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for Oxford County. It provides older adults and people with disabilities personalized assistance—including help understanding and enrolling in services like Medicare, in-home care, Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, legal aid, and wellness and educational programs. As the primary point of contact for disability-related support in western Maine, SeniorsPlus connects residents to both local and statewide services.

Oxford County Mental Health Services (OCMHS) - Delivers comprehensive behavioral health support throughout Oxford County. Key offerings include 24/7 crisis response, outpatient mental health services, and a drop-in Beacon House Peer Recovery Center—which offers peer-led support, social connection, self-help activities, and help linking to community services like housing and rehabilitation programs.

Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Services (SAPARS) - Operates regionally, including Oxford County, and provide confidential support for survivors of sexual violence. Their services include a 24/7 helpline, advocacy, and therapy—services vital for individuals with disabilities who have experienced violence or trauma.

Bethel Region Resources

Maine Adaptive Sports & Recreation - Provides year-round adaptive sports and recreational programming for individuals with permanent physical disabilities. Activities include alpine and Nordic skiing in winter and summer offerings like paddling, golfing, cycling, and fishing. These programs foster independence, confidence, and well-being across skill levels and age groups.

The Office of Accessibility Resources and Services (OARS) - Centered at Bethel University, supporting students with disabilities by arranging individualized academic and housing accommodations—including extended test time, note-taking aids, alternative text formats, sign language interpreters, and accessible housing. The university also hosts the BUILD Program, a two-year transition initiative offering inclusive vocational, residential, and social learning opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Bethel’s General Assistance Program - Offers emergency, needs-based support for residents, including people with disabilities, to access essential resources like food, shelter, utilities, fuel, and clothing. Aid decisions are typically made within 24 hours of application (submitted via appointment), ensuring prompt assistance for those facing urgent challenges.

Ability Beyond’s TIP (Technology Innovations for Peers) Squad - Empowers young adults with disabilities by engaging them directly in developing and adapting assistive technologies. Members use tools like 3D printers and open-source software to build cost-effective mobility and communication solutions. The program serves both as vocational training and a means to ensure assistive tools are user-informed and accessible, and is a remarkable example of grassroots tech innovation.