Schenectady County Department Of Social Services

This program offers short-term support to individuals and families in need as they aim for self-sufficiency. It can assist with either a security deposit or the first month's rent, but not both. Additionally, it is responsible for funding and coordinating burials for Schenectady County residents who pass away without financial means or family to manage the arrangements. The Family Assistance (FA) program provides financial aid to families with children, with cash benefits capped at five years over a recipient's lifetime. After this period, individuals may still receive assistance if an adult is disabled and unable to work or may need to transition to the Safety Net category. Safety Net Assistance (SNA) offers financial support for basic living costs to single adults and childless couples, or families who have exhausted their five-year FA limit, with cash benefits limited to two years. After two years, benefits are provided through a non-cash Safety Net Assistance voucher system. Emergency Temporary Assistance, available through Emergency Assistance for Families (EAF) or Emergency Safety Net Assistance (ESNA), addresses crisis situations like evictions, moving costs, utility shutoffs, and diversion payments to help individuals avoid ongoing assistance. Notably, individuals do not need to be receiving public assistance to qualify for Emergency Temporary Assistance.

Intake Procedure: Call or visit in person to apply.

Fees: None.