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Corrine Routhier, General Assistance Director & Administrator

Every town in Maine, including Portage Lake, offers a General Assistance program to help individuals who have exhausted all other resources. This program provides essential assistance for basic needs, such as affordable housing, utilities, and food. Please note that Portage Lake’s General Assistance is available exclusively to residents of Portage Lake.


General Assistance applications are available at the Portage Lake Town Office located at 20 School St., Portage Lake, ME.

You can visit us during the following hours:

  • Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8 AM to 3 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM to 1 PM

For any inquiries, please contact the Town Office at 207-435-4361.

Application Process

To apply for General Assistance, you can either download the application form from the link below or pick up a hard copy at the Portage Lake Town Office. Please ensure you review and complete the General Assistance Packet before your appointment.

General Assistance Packet
General Assistance Application



Steps to Apply:

  1. Fill in all sections of the application as thoroughly as possible.
  2. Do not sign the application until your interview is conducted, either in person or via phone.
  3. All adults living in the household listed on the application must apply at the General Assistance office.
  4. Contact the Town Office to schedule your General Assistance appointment. If we need to return your call for scheduling, please be ready to answer your phone.
  5. A caseworker will conduct the interview to complete your application.

Please Note: You must demonstrate a good-faith effort to reduce your need for General Assistance by utilizing available resources, including other government benefit programs, assistance from legally liable relatives, and employment opportunities, as outlined in subsection 4317 of the Notice of GA Eligibility. Remember, if you miss your appointment, you will need to call again to reschedule.

Emergency Assistance

If you experience a General Assistance EMERGENCY during our regular office hours, please call the office immediately to speak with the General Assistance Administrator. DO NOT just show up at the office!

For emergencies outside of office hours, contact the State of Maine Sheriff’s Office, and they will arrange a phone interview with you as soon as possible.

Important Resources

  • For more information about the General Assistance Ordinance and state statutes, please visit: General Assistance Ordinance State Statutes
  • State of Maine General Assistance toll-free number: 1-800-442-6003.
    (Please note that this number is not to be used as an after-hours or for emergencies but for information only.)