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CODE BLUE: Schenectady County has declared Code Blue in effect from Tuesday, January 21st through Friday, January 24th at 7:00 am, as temperatures are forecasted below freezing.   View Code Blue Shelters

  • Temporary Assistance Programs

  • Temporary Assistance Programs

  • Temporary Assistance Programs

  • Temporary Assistance Programs

  • Temporary Assistance Programs

Safety Net Assistance

Safety Net Assistance (SNA) helps individuals and some families who are ineligible for Family Assistance or other government help.

  • Safety Net Assistance consists of cash and non-cash support
  • The assistance program is funded primarily by state and local sources

Am I Eligible to Receive Safety Net Assistance? 

People applying for and receiving Safety Net Assistance must meet all eligibility requirements for other public assistance programs. Several important factors are considered when determining eligibility for Safety Net Assistance programs:

  • Household Income
  • Resources
  • Living Arrangements
  • Monthly Expenses
  • Employability
  • Immigration Status
The following low-income people and families may qualify for Safety Net Assistance: 
  • Single adults
  • Couples without children
  • Children living apart from any adult relative
  • Families of individuals struggling with alcohol or substance use
  • Families of individuals who refuse substance or alcohol screening, assessment, or treatment
  • People who have exceeded the 60-month time limit on Family Assistance
  • Immigrants who are eligible for public assistance but who are not entitled to federal reimbursement

Eligible households can typically receive Safety Net Assistance cash benefits for a maximum of 24 months over their lifetime. If you qualify for benefits beyond the 2-year limit, Safety Net Assistance may be provided in the form of non-cash benefits. Non-cash benefits are given to families of individuals struggling with alcohol or substance use disorders, or to those who refuse alcohol or substance use screening, assessment, or treatment.

Apply for Safety Net Assistance

 

ONLINE

Apply online using
myBenefits NY

Apply Now

In Person

Department of Social Services
797 Broadway, Schenectady, NY 12305