What does the Welfare Office do? The Welfare Office in Hillsborough complies with the State of NH Guidelines in meeting the responsibility as outlined in RSA 165, which states “Whenever a person in any town is poor and unable to support himself, he shall be “relieved and maintained” by the overseer of public welfare of such town.”
What does Relieved and Maintained mean? The Welfare Office helps with basic needs such as rent, mortgage payments, utilities and some medical costs whenever inability of the applicant to pay would result in eviction, utility disconnect and other adverse events. The assistance is designed to be an emergency response. It does not mean regular sustained aid that substitutes for employment or services provided by the State of New Hampshire and/or the Federal government.
What kind of aid will the Welfare Office pay? Rent/Mortgage, Non-food hygiene products, Utilities, Food, Diapers and Prescriptions.
What kind of aid will the Welfare Office not pay? In general, anything that is other than basic needs such as but not limited to: car payments, credit card debt, dental work, taxes, fines, legal settlements, cable/internet and arrearages.
Will you provide a security deposit? Typically, no, but we can assist with a first month rent if you meet the requirements for sustainability. There are other social agencies that may provide assistance for security deposits.
I am behind in rent and may be evicted. Will you pay my back rent? No, we do not pay arrearages. There are other social agencies that may provide assistance.
How do I apply? Pick up and application at the Town Offices or on the town’s website www.hillsboroughnh.org and fill it out as completely as possible. All expenses claimed must be accompanied by receipts, bills, cancelled checks and other proof of payment. All income including but not limited to employment, Social Security payments, child or spousal income must be declared and verified. Sign the area allowing Hillsborough officials to request information if needed to verify your statements. It is important to fill out the application as completely as possible to avoid delay or disqualification.