General Assistance is a program that has been available in every city and town in Maine for many years to help individuals or families who find themselves unable to provide for their basic needs such as utility bills (electricity and heat), food and housing. General Assistance provides a specific amount and type of aid for defined needs during a limited period of time and is not intended to be a continuing “grant-in-aid” or ‘categorical’ welfare program”(such as DHS ). General Assistance is available to anyone who is in need at any particular time. It is the program for last resort and is intended to be a “safety net” to help people who have no other resources.
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If you are looking to apply for General Assistance, you may call the City of Ellsworth Social Services Department at 207-669-6630, or you may complete the General Assistance Application available at the link below.
Application_for General Assistance 8_13_2026
Please be aware that all General Assistance applications are completed by appointment only.
If you complete an application through the website, you may submit it by:
- Email: thowes@ellsworthmaine.gov
- In person drop off location: Ellsworth City Hall, 1 City Hall Plaza, Ellsworth, ME 04605
Once your application is received, you will receive either a phone call or an email confirming receipt. At that time, you will be provided with an appointment to complete the application process.
Please note: Submitting an application by email or dropping it off at City Hall does not mean that your application is complete. Your application will be reviewed and completed during your scheduled appointment.
General Assistance Hours:
Monday–Thursday
8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.For emergencies outside of regular office hours, please contact the Ellsworth Police Department at 207-667-2168.