Applying for General Assistance

Background of Program

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. View the Maine State Statute website for more information. 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.

Emergency Applications

The City is required to have someone available 24 hours a day to take applications in an emergency. If this is an emergency and the office is closed, please contact Westbrook Public Safety at 207-854-0654.

The Importance of 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:

  • 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

What to Bring With You When You Apply

  • 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