DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES (DSS), TOMPKINS COUNTY

Assistance to persons with emergency need for housing and/or food or are victims of domestic violence. Determines eligibility and refers those eligible to appropriate services. processes referrals from Rescue Mission to determine eligibility for staying in the shelter conducts home studies to determine eligibility for public assistance applicants under 18 living on their own administers Housing First, helping homeless families and individuals obtain housing that otherwise might be unaffordable.(see Social Services Department, T.C., Housing First/STEPH for details) one-time furniture vouchers. If furniture is destroyed by fire, flood, etc, additional voucher can be obtained if individual applies and is determined income-eligible for DSS services.Email addresses specific to caseworkers.Applicants denied benefits can request fair hearings by calling the Office of Administrative Hearings, 800-342-3334.To determine eligibility and submit an application online, go to www.mybenefits.ny.gov