Westport Island selectmen will hold a public hearing on Monday, Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. at the town office to discuss adopting the general assistance appendices for 2016-2017.

According to information provided by Kate Dufour, senior legislative advocate for Maine Municipal Association, the general assistance program is mandatory for Maine municipalities. The amount granted varies depending on each situation and size of family. For example, the proposed rates would provide up to $1,163 for one month for a family of four. Of this, 30 percent is paid by the community and 70 percent is reimbursed by the state.

The program is intended to provide temporary help. Applicants must intend to remain in the community that provides the assistance and financial needs must outweigh the individual or family’s income.

General assistance is used most often to assist with emergency expenses for housing, heat and food. First Selectman George Richardson, Jr. administers the program.