General Assistance
The municipality of the Town of Rumford administers a General Assistance program for the support of the poor. Pursuant to Title 22 MRSA Section 4305, the municipal officers have adopted an ordinance establishing that program. A copy of this ordinance is available for public inspection at the Rumford Town Office. Also available for inspection is a copy of the State’s General Assistance Statutes, as copies of the State law are made available to the municipality by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.
Persons who wish to apply for General Assistance may do so by calling 207-364-4576 ext. 219 or inquiring by e-mail: ga@rumfordme.org. Please be aware that appointments for applications will be made for Tuesdays and Thursday only, unless it is an emergency situation.
In an emergency (after office hours), applicants may contact the Rumford Police Department at 207-364-4551. Applicants are responsible for providing the General Assistance Administrator with the information necessary to determine eligibility, including proof of all income and expenses.
“Emergency” situations include homelessness, or any life-threatening situation; or a situation beyond the control of the applicant, which if not alleviated immediately, could reasonably be expected to pose a threat to the health or safety of a person; a situation which is imminent, and which may result in homelessness, undue hardship, or unnecessary cost if not resolved immediately.
The General Assistance Administrator must issue a written decision 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.
Workfare Program
The Workfare Program is a means for able bodied persons to work in exchange for the assistance that they receive, and to acquire the skills necessary to obtain and maintain permanent employment. The workfare program also consists of training and educational mandates that assist clients in securing employment.
- Maine Career Center – Information on employment and training Phone: 207-645-7981
- Maine Department of Health and Human Services – Information on various programs including TANF, Food Supplement, and Maine Care Phone: 207-743-8798
- Pine Tree Legal Assistance – Information on evictions and tenant rights Phone: 207-784-155