In compliance with RSA 165, the Director of Welfare is the administrator of general assistance for individuals and families who may be poor and needy, and who may require emergency help. Requests may be made to this office through a written application process. All decisions are made free of bias, and in a strictly confidential manner. Eligibility is based on a financial review of basic needs. It is our mission to provide quality assistance to those in a difficult circumstance, and to do so in a financially responsible manner for the taxpayers of the City.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the difference between State and Local Welfare?
NH Health and Human Services (sometimes called State Welfare) is a program that includes Food Stamps, TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), Medicaid, APTD (Aid for the Permanent and Totally Disabled), Title XX (ChildCare), OAA (Old Age Assistance), etc. If you are poor and living in Strafford County, you may call 332-9120 to find out if you are eligible for any of these programs.
Every city and town in New Hampshire has a local welfare office where an individual may apply for emergency assistance in compliance with RSA 165.
What is Fuel Assistance (FAP) and how do I apply for it?
The Community Action Program runs the Fuel Assistance Program. This program helps families and individuals with low income to pay for their heat during the winter months. Potential recipients must be found eligible within the poverty guidelines set by HUD. Normally, applications are made between December and April. You may call 332-3963 if you live in the Rochester area.
Are there food pantries in the area?
Gerry's Food Pantry is on the main floor of the Community Center (behind Spaulding High School). It is open on Monday (1-3:30); Wednesday (10-3:30); Friday (1-3:30).
The Salvation Army (36 Autumn St.) has a food pantry in operation on Monday (9-2); Wednesday (9-4); Friday (9-2). They request that you show proof of residency. They also serve meals at noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. No proof of residency needed.
How can I apply for Public Housing and Section 8?
If you have low income, and you are either elderly (over 62 years), or disabled or you have minor children in your household, you may be eligible for the subsidized housing program. You may get more information by calling the Rochester Housing Authority at 332-4126. Also, you can call the New Hampshire Housing and Finance Authority Office at 800-439-7247 to request information about the State subsidy program.
Who do I call if I have a concern about a child's well being?
You can call 1-800-894-5533.
How can I contact the Homeless Shelters in the area?
Strafford County has two shelters for the homeless. The phone number for My Friend's Place in Dover is 749-3017.
The Homeless Center for Strafford County is open during the winter months (mid- October to approximately mid-April) for women and families on an over-night basis. You may call My Friend's Place to get more information, or call the Local Welfare Office in your town.
Cross Roads House is located in Portsmouth and can be reached by calling 436-2218.
What is the Mobile Health Van?
This is a Health Care program that was developed essentially for the homeless and uninsured. It is equipped with staff personnel who can help with paper work for applications regarding disability, food stamps, health concerns, and information and referral. This van stops at several towns in the Seacoast area of the state. Please call 1-888-922-0055 for a schedule.
Is there a Christmas program for kids in the City of Rochester?
Every year, the Rochester Firefighters (Rochester, Gonic, and East Rochester) run a program called the Toy Bank. This is not a City budgeted program. Any family may apply for their children up to age 14. Gifts are distributed then at a Christmas party held at the Community Center. The City Welfare Department will accept applications for the children over the phone (332-3505) or in person during the months of November and December.
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