When appropriate, Catholic Charities helps in emergencies with basic needs such as financial, food, prescription and heat.
Many families are facing multiple problems. Although one problem may be presented, generally financial in nature, the staff member must be able to assess other possible needs and problems of the family. Appointments for personal and family counseling are also assessed by the intake staff and referred to the appropriate satellite office or community resource.
Emergency Basic Needs Assistance Services
Emergency Food |
Food aid is provided by referral to food pantries and dining sites, through on-site food items, or through other emergency food programs. |
SNAP enrollment
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Households can be screened for eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps) and can enroll or re-certify for benefits. |
Utilities
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Neighbor-for-Neighbor Heat Fund: Applicant must meet one of the eligibility guidelines: age 55+, veteran, receiving unemployment or disability benefits, or have a medical condition made worse by the absence of heat. May apply once per heating season for up to $500 towards gas bill arrears. (ongoing when funds are available)
Care and Share: Must be a National Grid account holder and have already exhausted HEAP benefits. May receive up to $200 credit towards electric bill. May apply once per heating season. (Program available typically February – March each year. Closed when funds are exhausted) |
Personal Care |
Personal hygiene products are available on a limited basis for emergency need. |
Clothing |
Clothing is provided free by referral to Ladies of Charity thrift store, located at 1122 Broadway. Must have referral from Catholic Charities worker. |
Household Items
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Fresh Start packages are available by referral to individuals in need of small household items such as linens, cooking utensils and bedding. No furniture items are available. |
Baby Items |
Layette packages available by referral for new or expecting parents. |
Prescriptions
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Individuals with serious medical conditions may be assisted on a one-time basis when all other resources have been exhausted. |
Information and Advocacy
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Referrals to services inside and outside Catholic Charities for needs such as: shelter, domestic violence, counseling, employment, housing, re-entry, legal services, substance use, parenting classes, healthcare, and furniture. |
Other Assistance
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In the case that a catastrophic life event causes severe financial hardship, additional assistance may be available depending on the availability of funds and a detailed eligibility assessment conducted by program staff. |
Required documents to receive assistance:
Identification for all household members
Proof of all household monthly income
Proof of address
For Neighbor-for-Neighbor program:
Depending on the type of assistance requested, workers may request further documentation of need.
Erie County main office - Downtown Buffalo
525 Washington St.,
Buffalo, NY 14203
(716) 856-4494
Hours: Weekdays 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Closed on major holidays.
*For all other counties, please contact your local Catholic Charities office.
For a PDF of services, locations and hours, please click here.