Getting started.
Who this helps
Harpswell residents who cannot meet basic needs may qualify. Applicants must use available resources first. Eligibility is based on household income over 30 days.
How to get started
The General Assistance administrator must give you a written eligibility decision within 24 hours of receiving your application.
Call the GA office.
Call (207) 833-5771, extension 108, to ask about applying and arrange an appointment.
Apply at Town Office.
Apply at the Town Office during its posted hours. Applications are by appointment.
Use the emergency form.
For emergency help, use the General Assistance application on the Town's Assistance & Community Services page. Emergency applications are available 24/7.
How they can help.
The Town administers the program. Applicants must use available resources first. Household income is reviewed over 30 days, and appointments are confidential.
- Rent assistance
- Food assistance
- Electricity bills
- Heating fuel
- Household and personal items
A few questions before you go.
Bring ID, proof of residency, Social Security numbers and birth dates for everyone in your household, and records for rent or mortgage, electricity, prescriptions, water, heat, child care, and car registration. Also bring household income and asset records, receipts for spending in the past 30 days, recent bank statements, your latest tax return and W-2, and a doctor's statement describing work limits if a medical reason keeps you from working.
- What documents will I need for my household?
- How is my household income reviewed?
- Could I qualify if I receive other benefits?
- Can I get help with an urgent bill?