Editor’s note: The article was updated with new information at 9 a.m. Dec. 9.
The increased demand experienced recently by food pantries and other support programs has not been felt by the town’s General Assistance Fund, according to Dawn Moreau, General Assistance director.
Since July 1 the town has spent only $2,568 of the $31,500 approved by taxpayers to fund the State-mandated General Assistance fund at annual Town Meeting in May. The line item is included in the town’s spending package every year, and the State reimburses towns 70% of the amount spent on General Assistance.
South Berwick’s current unexpended balance is $28,932. Any funds remaining in the account at the end of the fiscal year in June will return to the General Fund as unappropriated surplus, according to Jennifer Janelle, town finance director.
The income threshold for participation is so low, said Janelle, that very few people in South Berwick meet the eligibility requirements.
According to the town’s General Assistance website, that threshold is determined by individual situations including number of people in the household, their income, assets and expense statements, along with other types of assistance received.
The General Assistance fund is a program of “last resort, meant to be used after applicants have applied for and accepted all other means of help,” said Moreau.
According to State regulations, applicants are required to provide photo identification, Social Security numbers for all household members, immigration paper work (if applicable) and medical statements or correspondence from Social Security if unable to work. Proof of all household income and expenses as well as a list of all assets – including retirement accounts and life insurance – are also required.
Applicants must reapply for the funds every 30 days, according to Moreau, who schedules appointments for both prospective and current recipients from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Monday through Thursday, and can be reached at 207-384-3040.
At that time the applicant must provide documentation (receipts) of all expenses and all income sources due 30 days before the next application date.
All clients, regardless of whether they received benefits in the past, are responsible for showing they have taken all available measures to avoid needing future GA, including accessing resources like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP, Maine Care health insurance, HEAP heating assistance, and subsidized housing.
Those who are reapplying must also provide proof they have been seeking employment, in accordance with a recent State mandate.
The General Assistance program and all eligibility requirements are described at length on the Town website.
Individuals or households that ultimately may not meet the qualifications for General Assistance may still be struggling to make ends meet and can access support available through other State and community programs.
Local community assistance programs
The following are local community assistance programs offered through SoBo Central, a non-profit organization with multiple programs supported by the community.
South Berwick Community Food Pantry: A recent event hosted by the South Berwick/Eliot and the Kittery Rotary clubs raised over $12,000 for the food pantry, stocking its shelves. The Food Pantry is managed by volunteers. For more information, contact Bridget Pote at 207-384-4324 or go to the food pantry during its regular hours, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and 10 to 11:30 a.m. Fridays.
Keep South Berwick Warm: An annual Soup Supper fundraiser provides a one-time fuel delivery of 150 gallons to residents who do not qualify for General Assistance but still have significant need as determined by Moreau, General Assistance director. Last year, 12 households received fuel deliveries, according to Bridget Pote, who distributes the funds for SoBo Central.
SoBo Cares: The Central School-based program helps families facing financial struggles. The organization raises funds to provide necessities during the school year and assistance with holiday giving during December. It also helps families with after school care and summer opportunities. During December it collects gift cards to give families in need. The family of any Central School student can receive help by contacting Sheila Cleary, Central School counselor, at sheila.cleary@rsu35.org or at 207-384-2333.
In addition to the SoBo Central programs, Community Refrigerators have been established 0utside Marshwood High School and Marshwood Middle School. The refrigerators are available 24 hours, seven days a week, for people to either drop off donations or pick up what they need.
Other area resources include:
Mainspring Collective: Nonprofit partners work together to provide comprehensive programs and services. Through centralized intake and assessment, data sharing, case management and ongoing collaboration, Mainspring offers a care program that empowers households to navigate the pathway out of poverty.
Address: 22 Shapleigh Road, Kittery General Line: 207-439-6376 Intake Line: 207-439-0246
email: info@mainspringcollective.org Website: Mainspring Collective
Property Tax Fairness Credit: Maine’s Circuit Breaker program has been replaced by a refundable Property Tax Fairness Credit that can be claimed on the Maine Individual Income Tax Form. A worksheet will be included with Form 1040ME to calculate the amount of credit.
Maine Department of Health and Human Services: The agency offers a variety of services for individuals, children and families, and is the first call people are advised to make if they are in need of help. Visit their website for more information: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/
York County Community Action Corp, 6 Spruce St., Sanford. 207-459-2950
