General assistance a part of the Resources Management Department

General Assistance is a part of the Resources Management Department within the City of Presque Isle. Therefore I would like to take a moment to explain the purpose of this department and why we offer these services. General Assistance (GA) is mandated by the State and is defined as “a service by the municipality for the immediate aid of persons who are unable to provide the basic necessities essential to maintain themselves or their families” (22 M.R.S.A.§ 4301 (5))
   All municipalities must, according to State law, have a resource to provide immediate help for people who are unable to meet basic necessities for themselves or their families. Basic necessities are food, shelter, utilities, fuel, and certain other items, when they are essential. Anyone can apply for assistance under this mandate, but not everyone will qualify. There are strict income guidelines that must be adhered to, so not everyone can receive help.
It is important that people understand that general assistance is actually considered a “last resort”; all other avenues should have been exhausted. Qualifying persons must bring all their income and expense receipts when they apply and in some other circumstances other compliance rules may require further information. The application process is needed to help determine need by considering income levels and comparing with levels of need, then matching them with assistance maximums, which are pre-established by the State. A person should apply as soon as they realize they may require assistance because General Assistance does not pay for arrearages (back bills). Please keep in mind that all general assistance information is confidential and can not be disclosed to the general public.
In summary, the City is here to help citizens in need of assistance. The understanding is there will be occasions when people will experience a job loss or illness preventing them from working. This is the purpose of the General Assistance department, to temporarily assist individuals that have nowhere else to turn, with basic necessities.
Our General Assistance office is located on the first floor of City Hall and is open every Tuesday and Friday from 8:00 a.m. through 5 p.m.
LaNiece Winslow is director of resource management for the city of Presque Isle.