General Assistance

Contact us for information at   
  • A short-term assistance program when between jobs or during illness.
  • A financial aid program for those who are not qualified for other assistance (state or federally funded aid).
  • Applicants must meet requirements for eligibility as contained in the Township’s General Assistance Handbook.
  • Eligibility for aid is generally based on financial, non-financial, and workfare assigned requirements
  • In addition to being a resident of Harlem Township, information regarding you and your family, financial status, and registration with the Department of Employment Security is required.
  • Call our office to make an appointment at 815-633-9382.
  • Your current Illinois Driver’s License or Identification Card and Social Security Card are required.
  • Applications for General Assistance Clients may be picked up during regular business hours, daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
  • Social Security Card
  • Verification of residence within the Harlem Township boundaries. Trailers are not eligible for Township assistance.
  • Medical Card or verification of insurance
  • Unemployment status- Letter from IDES within the last 30 days
  • If pending disability status, please bring documentation from an attorney 
  • Sources of Income-Bank Statements,Pay-stubs
  • Parole/Probation (if applicable)
  • A current utility bill for verification of residency
  1. The applicant is not receiving General Assistance from another governmental unit.
  2. The applicant is without dependent children and applying as a single adult case.
  3. The applicant’s current available non-exempt income falls within the income guidelines.
  4. The applicant is able to work and actively seeking employment -or- if applicant is unable to work, a physician statement is required.
  5. EA eligibility is determined in the interview process.