General Assistance

General Assistance Program Services

The General Assistance program in Maine is administered by each municipality in order to provide immediate help to eligible people who do not have enough money for basic needs. General Assistance provides essential items such as:

  • Food
  • Heating Fuel
  • Rent / Mortgage
  • Clothing 
  • Diapers
  • Personal and Household items
  • Funeral and Burial Expenses

In order to receive assistance, enrolled individuals must follow program rules and meet the eligibility conditions. Please note the General Assistance Administrator will only be able to assist Belfast residents


How to Apply:


All adults in the household must apply by calling 207.338.3370 ext 120 to make an appointment with The General Assistance Office at 131 Church Street Belfast, ME. 

Applicants Must Provide:

  • Identification documents (photo identification preferred)
  • Proof of any money available to the household during the last 30 days (this includes wages, TANF, child support, social security benefits, veteran’s benefits, etc.)
  • Proof of current expenses
  • Name of landlord
  • Current eviction or disconnection notice
  • Statement from doctor (if you are unable to work)
  • Proof of all current assets and/or benefits received

Other Requirements

Applicants are required to seek any and all resources that would reduce their need for General Assistance, such as:

  • Benefits such as SSI, SSDI
  • Veteran’s benefits
  • DHHS benefits (SNAP, MaineCare, TANF, and FedCap)
  • Heating assistance
  • Child Support
  • Money from others or bills paid by others on your behalf
  • Lump sum payments, such as Workers’ Compensation or SSI
  • Financial aid for school
  • It is a basic requirement of the program that everyone works or looks for work.