What is General Assistance?

General Assistance (GA) is a program of last resort – it is the “safety net” intended to help those people who have no other resources.

General Assistance (GA) is a “service administered by a municipality for the immediate aid of persons who are unable to provide the basic necessities essential to maintain themselves or their families. GA is intended to provide immediate aid, thus a decision on eligibility for assistance must be provided within 24 hours of an application. It is for people who are unable – not unwilling – to maintain themselves or their families. Finally, GA is intended to help people with basic necessities which include:  food, shelter, utilities, fuel, clothing, and certain other items, when they are essential". 

Notice of the Right to Apply

The municipality of Kennebunk administers a General Assistance program for residents in need. Pursuant to Title 22 M.R.S.A. § 4305, the municipal officers adopted the Maine Municipal Association General Assistance Ordinance 2024 (PDF) establishing that program. A paper copy of this ordinance and relevant statutes is available for public inspection in the General Assistance Office.

• Persons who wish to apply for General Assistance may do so during the regular office hours of 8:00 am - 4:00 pm.
• Or by calling the General Assistance Office at 207-985-2102 x1394 to schedule an appointment. 
• In an emergency, applicants may contact the Kennebunk Police Department by calling the Public Safety Dispatch at 207-324-3644 and a dispatcher will assist you. 

The municipality’s General Assistance administrator must issue a written decision regarding eligibility to all applicants within 24 hours of receiving an application. The Department of Health & Human Services toll-free telephone number, to call with a question regarding the General Assistance Program, is 1-800-442-6003. This notice is posted pursuant to Title 22 M.R.S.A. § 4304-4305.

 Confidentiality 

The information concerning your request for assistance including the application and all supporting documents is strictly confidential. You, your attorney, the GA Administrator and certain government personnel may review your records but the general public may not review your records unless you have given your express permission. 

Poverty Abatement Application

Taxpayers having difficulty paying their real estate taxes may apply for an abatement due to poverty or infirmity. Applications (PDF) are processed through the Social Services office. Please call (207) 985-2102 ext. 1394 for more information or to schedule an appointment.