City of South Portland - General Assistance

The City of South Portland offers a General Assistance (GA) program that assists eligible residents, for a limited period of time, who are unable to provide basic necessities essential to maintain themselves or their families. Eligibility is determined according to income and guidelines. GA is administered in accordance with the City of South Portland Ordinance and Maine State Statute, Chapter 22. This program provides confidential financial assistance to South Portland residents who are having difficulty meeting basic needs for shelter, food, fuel, electricity and medical expenses. This program is designed to be the program of “last resort” for residents of the community who are unable to provide for their basic needs. The department works with clients to self-sustain, utilizing a myriad of social services within Cumberland County. The program is funded by local property taxes with 50% reimbursement from the state. All assistance is granted in voucher form to local merchants. The City works with applicants to ensure that appropriate community referrals are made to support services.

Assistance for basic necessities such as Rent, Food, Fuel, Electricity and Medical Expenses