General Assistance

General Assistance Program

One of the main responsibilities of townships is providing General Assistance. General Assistance (GA) is a locally administered welfare program which provides monthly financial assistance to persons who do not have adequate income or resources to provide for their own basic needs. Basic needs may include shelter, food, household supplies, utilities, personal essentials and other expenses deemed essential to the health and well-being of the family. All townships in Illinois are statutorily mandated by the legislature to levy taxes and administer general assistance for destitute township residents.

In addition, the township offers Emergency Assistance for those who are facing “life-threatening” circumstances such as rental eviction or utility disconnection. Below outlines in detail both General and Emergency Assistance.

Eligibility for General Assistance

There are certain criteria that the individual must meet to qualify. Below are the listed criteria:

Applicant must be a resident of Joliet Township.
Applicant must meet certain financial and residential criteria and not be eligible for any other State or Federal Assistance programs.
Applicant must be 18 years or older.
Applicant must be a U.S citizen or have legal residency.

To apply for General Assistance, application must be picked up from the Joliet Township building. Once the application is completed and returned, a caseworker will be seen for the intake process. You will be given a list of required documentation to provide and a follow-up appointment will be scheduled.

This program has a workfare component that is required for applicants that have zero income. Program provides 1-on-1 mentoring to aid clients in seeking employment. Workfare investigator will assist clients to develop the necessary skill set to attain employment, resume creation, and interview skills. Applicants currently pending social security disability or are on unpaid workman’s comp will have workfare/job search waived.

For rent assistance, once the applicant has all of the required documents turned in and their eligibility has been verified. The caseworker will issue a disbursing order, which must be signed by landlord and returned to our office.

Emergency Assistance Program

Emergency Assistance is available to individuals who do not qualify for the Township’s General Assistance program. Emergency Assistance offers support for past due rent, mortgage payments, first month’s rent, utility disconnections (electric, gas, water), and vehicle repairs.

For rental assistance, applicants must provide a current 5-day eviction notice from their property owner and proof of being at least 5 days behind on rent. If the required assistance exceeds the Township’s payment amount, the applicant must pay the balance before funds can be released.

For utility assistance, applicants need to present a current disconnection notice from the utility company. They must also demonstrate that the remaining balance will be covered through their own funds, assistance from other agencies, or by providing proof of a signed landlord agreement or a payment schedule with the utility company.

Assistance amounts are based on household size, needs, and qualifications, and are available once every 12 months.

Eligibility for Emergency Assistance

There are certain criteria that the individual must meet to qualify. Below are the listed criteria:

Applicant does not qualify for the Township’s GA program.
Applicant must be a resident of Joliet Township.
Applicant must meet certain financial and residential criteria and not be eligible for any other State or Federal Assistance programs.
Applicant must be 18 years or older.
Applicant must be a U.S citizen or have legal residency.

To apply for Emergency Assistance, application must be picked up from the Joliet Township building. Once the application is completed and returned, a caseworker will be seen for the intake process. You will be given a list of required documentation to provide and a follow-up appointment will be scheduled.

Referral Services

Joliet Township case manager have established a strong networking relationship with many other Joliet/Will County agencies. Case managers work extensively with all individuals to ensure they are given every resource above and beyond our assistance program to assist them in their individual situations.

"Working in GA allows you the unique opportunity to impart knowledge and resources to our clients in need. Often times for our homeless clients they find kind words are few and far between and something as simple as that provides them with encouragement. We are fortunate to be able to find satisfaction in our jobs but providing assistance to those in need and we go home at the end of the day with a sense of accomplishment."

Patricia VenzianoGeneral Assistance Director

"Being born and raised in Joliet it is gratifying to be able to share so many resources in the community for them. It is very rewarding also when you hear back the positive feedback after following up with the resources. It makes me realize no matter what your problem are…you don’t have too look far to count your blessings."

Sue BustinMedical Caseworker

"As the Bilingual Caseworker, I have the opportunity to provide direct support to Spanish-Speaking client and engage with individuals of various backgrounds. My role allows me to develop relationships with organizations and individuals to share regarding our services. The General Assistance program provides a helping hand with comfort and guidance. The goal is to connect clients with our services and additional resources they may benefit to enhance their well-being."

Alejandra ZamudioBilingual Caseworker

Frequently Asked Questions About Service

No, while you may be eligible for up to $500.00 monthly the funds will be disbursed directly to the vendor.

You may stay on the program indefinitely as long as you are in compliance with the program

You will need to put in 33 hours.

Yes, we have resources to provide assistance for expungement.

You may receive Emergency Assistance once every 12 months.

Assistance varies dependent on household size

Contact us

We understand the importance of listening to our residents. We highly encourage you to reach out with any questions or concerns.

For more information regarding the content of shown above, please contact the Joliet Township’s General Assistance Department.