Community Resources

Background of General Assistance Resources

The City of Westbrook offers a General Assistance (GA) program that assists eligible residents, for a limited period of time, who are unable to provide basic necessities essential to maintain themselves or their families. Eligibility is determined according to income and guidelines. GA is administered in accordance with the City of Westbrook ordinance and Maine State Statute, Chapter 22. This program provides confidential financial assistance to Westbrook residents who are having difficulty meeting basic needs for shelter, food, fuel, electricity and medical expenses. This program is designed to be the program of “last resort” for residents of the community who are unable to provide for their basic needs. The department works with clients to self-sustain, utilizing a myriad of social services within Cumberland County. The program is funded by local property taxes with 70% reimbursement from the state. All assistance is granted in voucher form to local merchants. The City works with applicants to ensure that appropriate community referrals are made to support services. For additional information view and even print the Overview of Social Services Resources (PDF) document.

Food Pantries

View a listing of various Food Pantries in the Westbrook area. In addition view the Westbrook Community Food and Resource Food Pantry Application (PDF). Applications are also available at the Westbrook Food Pantry. Please bring current mail or rent receipt for each person over 18 in the household. Drivers license is only proof if very recently issued.

State of Maine Homeless Shelters

The shelters of Maine provide emergency shelter, view a listing of Maine Homeless Shelters. The Maine Housing website supports many of these shelters by providing funds to help with operating expenses and capital improvements. For information on other shelters or resources in your area, dial 2-1-1.

For more information on shelter funding, visit the Homeless Housing Program and Shelter Funding section of the Homeless Initiatives page.

Clothing & Basic Needs

Discover a variety of organizations that assist with clothing and basic needs for community member by viewing the Basic Needs and Clothing Assistance of Westbrook resource page.

Assistance for Renters and Homeowners

Maine's Emergency Rental Assistance Program provides rental and utility relief payments to help eligible renters.

The Maine Homeowner Assistance Fund ("the Maine HAF") is a free, federal relief program for homeowners financially impacted by COVID-19 who are behind on their mortgage, housing, property tax or utility payments and are at risk of foreclosure or loss of services. The program, which can provide up to $15,000 per eligible household, is funded through the U.S. Dept. of Treasury and administered by the Maine Bureau of Consumer Credit Protection.