AUGUSTA — Maine is trying to help food recipients meet the volunteer requirement Republican Gov. Paul LePage’s administration began enforcing last year.

The Department of Health and Human Services said Wednesday that it’s partnering with LearningWorks to connect food stamp recipients with volunteer opportunities. It’s also encouraging Temporary Assistance for Needy Families recipients to participate.

Since October, some recipients have been required to work, volunteer or participate in a work-training program to receive food stamp benefits after three months. DHHS said last month that 9,000 people had been removed from the program since it began enforcing the rules.

Advocates said there aren’t enough jobs and volunteer opportunities available.

Through LearningWorks, recipients can participate in AmeriCorps’ “AIMS HIGH” program, which places volunteers in schools and currently has 45 positions available.