General Assistance

Background

General Assistance is a state mandated, municipally administered financial assistance program for residents who are unable to provide for their basic needs such as shelter, food, utilities, prescriptions, etc. General Assistance is an emergency program of last resort for those who qualify. Applicants must provide verification of income and expenses and, if unable to work, medical documentation substantiating their work limitations. Applicants are required to seek work if physically able and apply for assistance from any other available state or local programs. Determination of eligibility is made for a period of 30 days, based on available and anticipated income. 

How to Apply

Applications are by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, please call 207-591-7015.

Appointments are generally scheduled within a week of the phone call. We do not take “walk in” appointments. A first time appointment will include a screening over the phone to ensure eligibility requirements are met and that the individual knows what to bring to an appointment for paperwork, etc.

Appointments are generally 30 to 60 minutes long depending on the issue. It is important that you show up on time for your appointments. If you are more than 10 minutes late, your appointment will be rescheduled as to not cause a back up with other people’s scheduled appointments.

Items to Bring to Your Appointment

What to bring to your appointment (first time):

• Signed lease / rental agreement
• Current bank statement
• Proof of all household income and expenses
• Employment verification / paystubs
• Medical statement if unable to work
• Photo identification
• Passport and immigration paperwork
• Social security cards for everyone in the house
• Correspondence from Social Security
• Correspondence from DHHS