GENERAL ASSISTANCE
Michelle Rumney, General Assistance Administrator
207-636-2843 ext 0
townadmin@shapleigh.net
Hours by appointment only: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9-4, Thursday 3-5
For after hour LIFE THREATENING emergencies, please call 207-432-7390
The General Assistance Program is a 'safety net' program after all other potential and available resources have been utilized. General Assistance is a program that provides assistance for basic needs for eligible applicants who cannot provide for themselves and their families. General Assistance provides "a specific amount and type of aid for defined needs during a limited period of time and is not intended to be a continuing 'grant-in-aid' or 'categorical' welfare program" (§4301(5)). 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.
207-636-2843 ext 0
townadmin@shapleigh.net
Hours by appointment only: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9-4, Thursday 3-5
For after hour LIFE THREATENING emergencies, please call 207-432-7390
The General Assistance Program is a 'safety net' program after all other potential and available resources have been utilized. General Assistance is a program that provides assistance for basic needs for eligible applicants who cannot provide for themselves and their families. General Assistance provides "a specific amount and type of aid for defined needs during a limited period of time and is not intended to be a continuing 'grant-in-aid' or 'categorical' welfare program" (§4301(5)). 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.
Utilizing Resources
It is important that an applicant use their income for basic necessities. If an applicant chooses to spend their income on non-basic items, they may not be eligible for GA.
Applicants must apply for and use all other resources available prior to applying for General Assistance:
- Food Supplement Program (SNAP)
- Government assisted programs and community resources
- LI-HEAP
- MaineCare / Medicaid / Medicare
- Subsidized housing programs
- Support from legally liable relatives
- TANF and other DHHS programs
- Unemployment Benefits
- Salvation Army and other Charitable Organizations
What to Bring with You to Your Appointment
- Signed lease / rental agreement
- Current bank statement and current balance
- 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
- The Application-We will go over this with you during your appointment and help you fill it out. When possible, it will help expedite the process if you download the application in advance and complete the basic personal information sections on page 1 and 2.