Just days before Thanksgiving and the start of the holiday season, Governor Martin O’Malley announced the launch of www.problemsolver.maryland.gov – a new state website that provides access to state and federal resources during these challenging economic times.

“We have seen our share of challenges with a downturn in the national economy and a national mortgage crisis.  This hasn’t been an easy year and far too many Maryland families are struggling to make ends meet,” said Governor O’Malley.  “We know that these winter months, and these uncertain economic times will not be easy for many Maryland families, but it is our hope that this website will help Marylanders gain access to programs and services available to them if they qualify.”

“Governor O’Malley and I have committed ourselves to strengthening the middle class and we know that working families are struggling during these difficult times,” Lt. Governor Brown said. “We will continue to use every tool we have to reach out and educate Marylanders about the programs and services available to them. This website,

www.problemsolver.maryland.gov, is one of those tools.”

Marylanders can go to

www.problemsolver.maryland.gov  to find information on a range of services from heating and energy assistance, to employment assistance – including job training and unemployment services – to services for seniors and those living with disabilities.  The website also provides a link to an assistance eligibility calculator, which helps Marylanders determine what services they may qualify for, such as food stamps, the Temporary Cash Assistance program, Medical Assistance, the Maryland Energy Assistance Program, and the Electric Universal Service Program, among others.

“Governor O’Malley has been working diligently to ensure state agencies who provide social services to those in need are doing so in a coordinated and cooperative fashion,” said Department of Human Resources Secretary Brenda Donald.  “The people we serve will now have a much easier way to access information about services they may need.”

Marylanders looking for information on heating or utility assistance can click on the utilities and energy icon to find information and resources on programs such as weatherization assistance, telephone services, and utility service protection in addition to the Maryland Energy Assistance program and the Electric Universal Service Program.  The website also provides information for job seekers, including links to local employment agencies, vocational training centers, and information on unemployment compensation and how to file a claim.  Information for senior citizens including in home aide services, assisted living programs, respite and attendant care, medical assistance and prescription drug price assistance is also available on the site.

Marylanders looking to finance a college education can click on the Education icon and will find a number of State resources on financial aid, scholarships, and college savings plans.  Maryland’s veterans can find information on education and training programs, scholarships, employment opportunities and other benefits available to them.  Marylanders looking for ways to cut costs on driving to work can click on the Transportatio