Basic Needs

Black Bear Exchange

The Black Bear Exchange is UMaine’s food pantry and clothing swap. They envisions a community where all those who work at and attend the University of Maine have equitable access to resources; and where creative, situation-specific collaborations are actively nurtured to meet needs. This community will also value the reuse of goods and seek to eliminate the waste of resources.

Black Bear Orono Express

The Black Bear Orono Express is a free shuttle service that provides much-needed transportation for our students, staff and visitors within the University and the Town of Orono communities. Service on the Black Bear Orono Express is FREE for all riders (regardless of whether a UMaine ID card is shown or not).

Community Connector Public Transportation

The Community Connector Bus connects UMaine to surrounding communities including Bangor, Old Town, Veazie, Hampden, and Brewer. All UMaine faculty and staff can ride for free by showing their MaineCard.

Concord Trailways

Bus stop is located at Campus bus stop at the Memorial Gym by the Black Bear statue. Public telephone is not available. Service to UMaine Orono only operates when school is in regular session. Please purchase tickets online, and arrive at the bus stop 15 minutes prior to departure. UMaine students are eligible for a $5 discount off a REGULAR round-trip ticket ONLY to Portland, ME, Bangor, ME, Boston, MA and Logan Airport with their college I.D. Use coupon code: coupon11. This discount cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts or promotions. Discount does not apply to Same-Day RT tickets – REGULAR RT tickets only.

Student Life Emergency Funding

Student Life staff are available to discuss individual financial concerns and connect to appropriate campus and community resources. In addition, we have limited funding available for emergency expenses that arise for a variety of reasons. We are happy to meet with students to discuss their particular circumstances, options and offer support as needed.