General Relief
The General Relief program provides temporary assistance to low/no income adults ages 18 to 64, with no dependent children. When no other source of assistance is available, General Relief can help with the most basic living needs, including rent, utilities and incidentals. This program is fully funded and managed by the County of Ventura.
Eligible adults may receive direct payments to their landlord and/or utility companies, up to a maximum of $310 per month, for a household of one. General Relief payments are considered a loan and must be repaid to the County.
To be considered for General Relief, you must apply in person. Once you apply, you will be given an appointment and asked to attend an orientation, as well as an interview to discuss your situation and need for General Relief.
- Find a Community Service Center near you or call 888-472-4463 for assistance
- Community Service Center hours are from 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday
Applying for General Relief
Eligibility
Factors used to determine eligibility and benefits for the General Relief Program include income, identification, property, citizenship/immigration status, age and residency. An assessment will be conducted to determine if you are able to work. Certain activities will be required of you based on your individual situation. If you are disabled, you will be required to apply for Social Security Disability benefits.
Your property and income from any source will be considered to determine whether you qualify for General Relief and your benefit amount. Your income must be within the allowable income limits, your property value cannot exceed $1,000, and your liquid resources (cash on hand, checking/saving accounts, stocks, etc.) cannot be over $100.
Program Requirements
Program Requirements
Activities Requiring Participation – In conjunction with their General Relief worker, applicants/recipients will need to complete and sign a Personal Responsibility and Services Contract. This contract helps participants move toward self-sufficiency, and helps determine the type of activities participants are assigned to complete.
To continue receiving General Relief, you must comply with required activities and maintain appointments. Additionally, you must notify your General Relief worker within five (5) days when there are changes to your situation, such as changes to your housing, living arrangements, employment, income or property.
Support for Clients
Eligible adults are supported in their efforts toward achieving self-sufficiency through referrals to services including: employment-related workshops, job search assistance and rehabilitation services. Participants also have access to various services available through local job centers. Eligible participants receive assistance with securing income through Veterans’ benefits, Social Security, Workers’ Compensation, and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
