Catholic Charities, Tompkins/Tioga Counties (Cctt)

As of July 2024, the Samaritan Center features a NOEP coordinator to aid with SNAP eligibility and applications. They provide referrals and support for low-income individuals facing urgent needs at their Ithaca location and food pantries in Danby, Groton, and Caroline. The center offers free clothing, personal care items, linens, towels, sheets, and diapers, and accepts gently used donations of bedding, towels, and clean clothing for men, women, and children, including shoes. Emergency financial assistance is available once a year when resources permit, with specific eligibility criteria for security deposits, including being a Tompkins County resident moving within the county, not having received a security deposit voucher from the Department of Social Services, and having an income below 60% of AMI guidelines. The application and approval process typically takes around two weeks, and applicants cannot move into the unit before the inspection or approval. For utility assistance, applicants must provide a shut-off notice and a denial from DSS during HEAP, with some flexibility regarding DSS denial letters. Minimal fills for propane are also available. Back rent assistance is offered when funding allows, following similar eligibility criteria as the security deposit program. The center also provides transportation assistance, such as bus passes or gas vouchers for education, employment verification, or medical appointments within Tompkins County. Limited funding for car repairs is available, requiring a quote and a mechanic's W9, with the applicant covering any costs exceeding $500. Moving assistance is available on a limited basis, partnering with Reuse to offer store credit for furniture and household goods, as well as access to a moving truck, driver, and movers for up to two hours for one move per year within Tompkins County. Low-income households (60% AMI guidelines) can access this program, but the service is not equipped to handle multiple floors, and all items must be packed and ready for moving. Items can be moved to a storage facility if a new apartment isn't secured yet. The center also assists with Fidelis, Child Health Plus, Medicaid, and Medicare applications, as well as food stamps screening. Their annual Winter Event, "Share the Warmth," collects clothing donations at red bins across Tompkins County, seeking clean, gently used items in good condition, typically during late November or early December. To initiate assistance, individuals should call the center.