Getting started.
Who this helps
Bowdoinham residents who show financial need and meet the state and town limits may qualify for General Assistance. The Heat Assistance Fund is usually for emergencies when a household does not qualify for General Assistance.
How to get started
The administrator decides whether you qualify and gives you a decision sheet. A household member who is able to work may need to complete a workfare assignment before assistance is issued.
Schedule an appointment.
Call the General Assistance administrator at (207) 666-5531, extension 106, to set an appointment.
Complete an application.
Each person applying must complete an application. Use the General Assistance application for either program. Pick up a form at the Town Office or in the green mailbox by its front door.
Bring your records.
Bring identification for each household member, records of household income, and documents showing basic and work-related expenses.
How they can help.
The Town runs General Assistance with Maine DHHS. General Assistance is provided as a voucher or paid to a vendor, not as cash. The same application can be used for General Assistance and the Heat Assistance Fund.
- Help with rent and housing costs
- Help with food
- Help with medication
- Help with heating fuel
- Help with utility bills and other essential services
A few questions before you go.
Proof of identification for each household member, records of all household income, and documents showing basic and work-related expenses.
- What bills can the Town help with?
- Can the Heat Assistance Fund help if I do not qualify for General Assistance?
- What records should I bring?
- What happens after the appointment?