General Assistance is intended to provide aid to people who are unable to provide basic necessities for themselves or their families. Only basic necessities such as rent/mortgage, food, heating fuel, medications, and other items that are considered essential, in accordance with the standards of eligibility as provided within the City Ordinance, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) policy, and Maine Revised Statutes Title 22 will be assisted with upon a finding of eligibility.
General Assistance is considered to be the last resort when all other resources have been utilized, and is not intended to be a continuing welfare program.
General Assistance applications are taken by appointment only. People wishing to apply may do so by calling the Brewer General Assistance office at (207) 989-7020. In an emergency after City Hall hours, applicants may contact the Brewer Police Department at (207) 989-7001.
Applicants are responsible for providing the General Assistance Administrator with all information necessary to determine eligibility. Applicants may be required to seek any and all resources that would reduce their need for General Assistance, such as:
- State/Federal assistance programs
- Employment benefits
- Veteran’s benefits
- DHHS benefits (SNAP, MaineCare, TANF)
- Heating assistance (LIHEAP)
- Child support
- Governmental or private pensions
- Lump sum payments, such as Workers’ Compensation or SSI
It is applicant’s responsibility to show that they are eligible. If an applicant does not bring in all the information that has been asked for, the administrator may have to deny the request for assistance until provided with the necessary information. It is the administrator’s job to verify the information supplied. This may include obtaining information from a landlord, employer, doctor, or any other person having information about an applicant’s income, expenses or other information necessary regarding an application.
The current General Assistance Maximums Reference Sheet- Bangor HMFA effective October 01, 2024 to September 30, 2025 can be found here.
The Department of Health and Human Services’ toll free number, to call with questions regarding the General Assistance Program is 1(800) 442-6003.