BACKGROUND

The Town of Yarmouth administers General Assistance (GA) as a safety net for residents who are unable to provide for their basic needs, including shelter, food, utilities, and personal supplies. GA is an emergency program of last resort and designed to encourage self-reliance and accountability. All assistance is granted in voucher form; no cash assistance is given. Applicants must provide verification of income and expenses and, if unable to work, medical documentation substantiating work limitations. Applicants are required to seek work if physically able, and repeat applicants are asked to apply for assistance from state/local programs, such as TANF, SNAP, HEAP, and MaineCare. Determination of eligibility is made for a period of 30 days. 

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HOW TO APPLY

Applications are by appointment only. GA hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays 9:00 am - 1:00 pm; Wednesdays 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm. Appointments can sometimes be made outside these hours. To schedule an appointment, please call Christy at 207-846-2406 or email ga@yarmouth.me.us. A first-time appointment will include a screening over the phone to communicate eligibility requirements, including what documents to provide. If an applicant needs assistance completing the application form, the GA administrator can help.  

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Required documents to bring to your appointment:

• Photo identification

• Proof of residency (if housed)

• Social security cards for everyone in the household

• Employment verification / paystubs

• Medical statement if unable to work

• Proof of all household income**

• Proof of all household expenses/bills

• Current bank statement

• Receipts to show spending (repeat applicants only)

• Signed lease / rental agreement

• Passport and immigration paperwork

• Correspondence from Social Security

• Correspondence from DHHS

**Income includes:

• Cash on hand

• Income tax refunds

• Unemployment benefits

• Child support benefits

• TANF benefits

• Social Security benefits

• SSI/SSDI disability benefits

• Checking/savings

• Veteran's pensions

• Rental income

• Loans

• Worker's compensation

• Savings bonds

• Trust funds annuity

• Life insurance policies

• Retirement accounts

• School loans

• Financial resources

• Car/recreational vehicles

• Real estate holdings