welfare Archives - The Portland Press Herald

Bipartisan bill to expand education program for low-income Mainers draws support

by Eric Russell February 14, 2018February 15, 2018

The legislation sponsored by Democratic House Speaker Sara Gideon would leverage federal funds to expand an under-used program known as Parents as Scholars.

Op-eds, Opinion

Commentary: TANF worked, but reforms are sorely needed

by Katherine Bradley and Robert Rector Tribune News Service August 6, 2017August 4, 2017

Work requirements have eroded and states have found ways to game the system.

Editorials, Opinion

Our View: ‘Workfare’ the right move for Westbrook and the needy

by The Editorial Board June 7, 2017June 6, 2017

A work mandate for those on General Assistance will help move more people into the workforce.

Cops & Courts, Maine

Westbrook brothers plead not guilty to welfare fraud

by Matt Byrne May 4, 2017May 5, 2017

They are accused of using a Portland grocery store owned by the older brother to defraud the government in a cash-back scheme involving welfare benefits.

Cops & Courts, Maine, News

Westbrook brothers charged with plotting welfare fraud at Portland store

by Dennis Hoey April 25, 2017January 26, 2018

Officials say the men schemed to divert tens of thousands of federal benefit dollars at Ahram Halal Market, a small store on Forest Avenue.

Maine Voices, Op-eds, Opinion

State should make greater investment in the future of our children

by James Elkins Special to the Press Herald April 15, 2017April 14, 2017

The current approach runs contrary to what will help meet the needs of a vulnerable population.

Maine, News

Bill would help Portland seek reimbursement for shelter, General Assistance aid

by Kevin Miller April 10, 2017April 10, 2017

The proposed changes to the residency determination process would make the jurisdiction where a person lived before applying for aid responsible for the costs.