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Every town in Maine has a General Assistance Program that helps individuals and families with little or no resources to meet their basic needs.

This may include help paying for:

  • Household or personal supplies (toiletries, cleaning supplies)
  • Food
  • Housing (e.g., mortgage, rent, room rent, temporary housing)
  • Fuel & utilities
  • Medical, dental, prescriptions, medical supplies/equipment
  • Burial costs​

How to apply:

Click the link to download and complete the application

You may also obtain applications at the town office during regular business hours.

Applicants Must Provide:

  • Identification documents (photo id preferred)
  • Proof of any money available to the household during the last 30 days (wages, TANF, child support, social security benefits, veteran’s benefits, gifts, etc). Applies to ALL household members.
  • Proof of current expenses
  • Name of landlord
  • Current eviction or disconnection notice
  • Statement from doctor (if you are unable to work)
  • Proof of all current assets and/or benefits received (including bank statements)

Other Requirements:

Applicants are required to seek any and all resources that would reduce their need for General Assistance, such as:

  • Benefits such as SSD, SSDI
  • Veteran’s benefits
  • DHHS benefits (SNAP, MaineCare, TANF, FedCap)
  • Heating Assistance
  • Child Support
  • Money from others or bills paid by others on your behalf
  • Lump sum payments: Workers Compensation or SSI
  • Financial aid for school
  • Land claim settlements

It is a basic requirement of the program that everyone works or looks for work.

NOTICE​

The municipality of Etna administers a General Assistance program for the support of the poor. Pursuant to Title 22 M.R.S.A. § 4305, the municipal officers have adopted an ordinance establishing that program. A copy of this ordinance and relevant statutes is available for public inspection at the Town Office. Persons who wish to apply for General Assistance may do so at the Etna Town Office during the following time(s):

Tuesday 7 am – 1 pm
Wednesday 7 am – 1 pm
Thursday 1 pm – 7 pm
Friday 7 am – noon

Applicants may call 207-269-3551 to have an application mailed or to schedule an appointment to have their completed application reviewed by the General Assistance Administrator. The General Assistance Administrator will issue a decision regarding eligibility to all applicants within 24 hours of receiving an application.

The Department of Health and Human Services toll -free number to call with questions regarding the General Assistance Program is: 1-800-442-6003

In an emergency, applicants may contact the Penobscot County Sheriff Office at 207-945-4636.

This notice is posted pursuant to Title 22 M.R.S.A. §4304-4305.