GENERAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (GA) - provides monthly cash grants for vulnerable persons who qualify. Must have disability or be unemployable.

DIVERSIONARY WORK PROGRAM (DWP) – 4-month program that provides services and support to eligible families to help them move immediately to work rather than go on welfare. Supports your family while you work or look for work. May be eligible for support such as help with rent, utilities or other housing costs; personal needs allowance and childcare assistance. May be eligible for food support, health care and childcare assistance while on DWP. After the 4-months, you may be eligible for MFIP.

MINNESOTA FAMILY INVESTMENT PROGRAM (MFIP) – This is the state welfare program. All participants are expected to be employed within 6 months of being on the program, with a few exceptions. There is a 60-month lifetime limit for assistance.

MINNESOTA SUPPLEMENTAL AID (MSA) PROGRAM - provides a monthly cash supplement to those who are recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or to those who are eligible for SSI.

FOOD SUPPORT PROGRAM - assists low-income persons and families so they can purchase food and better meet their nutritional needs.

Also offering ground transportation services for cancer patients and/or family members.

TRANSPORTATION PROGRAMS:

General Route Bus System: A wheelchair accessible bus runs through all areas of the county with destinations of Park Rapids & Bemidji. The bus can deviate from a given route to pick you up at home or a designated pickup point. There is generally a 3-4 hour layover at the destination and the bus can take you from point to point once you are there. Call ahead to 218-732-9328 for reservations. Hours for calling: 8:00am - Noon, Mon – Fri. Fee: $3.50

Dial - A- Car: Volunteer drivers in their own vehicles can take you for medical appointments that can't be scheduled for the bus. 24 hour notice is needed. Call 218-732-9328.

City Bus Service: The city bus is wheelchair accessible. Ride for $1.25 each way. At least a 2 hour notice call to 218-732-3500 is needed for initial pick-up. Phone is answered 8:00am - 4:30pm. Bus Runs 8:00am - 4:00pm Mon – Fri, No Service: 1:00 - 1:30pm. To guarantee pick-up times call 218-732-3500 the day before. Schedule your appointments so you are done by 4:00pm. Last pick-up time is 4:15pm.