How to apply for Tompkins County Emergency Aid — Referral Coordination in New York

Tompkins County DSS + OFA + community-based organizations — coordinated emergency aid framework

Who it's for

Tompkins County emergency aid: (1) Tompkins DSS for Temporary Assistance, Emergency HEAP, and one-time grants (607-274-5276); (2) Tompkins OFA for senior-specific case management (607-274-5482); (3) Tompkins hospital safety net (607-274-4011); (4) Tompkins transit (607-277-7433); (5) Catholic Charities Tompkins/Tioga (Samaritan Center emergency financial assistance); (6) The Salvation Army; (7) Tompkins Community Action (the county's Community Action Agency, Ithaca). Dial 211 for general referrals.

Tompkins: referral-coordination model. Catholic Charities Tompkins/Tioga and Tompkins Community Action are the main nonprofit pillars; each sets its own rules.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

  • Proof of age 60+
  • Proof of all household income
  • Proof of Tompkins County residency
  • Photo identification

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 211

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Tompkins County Emergency Aid — Referral Coordination. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 60+, proof of all household income, proof of Tompkins County residency — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

as-needed

Official source →Last verified · October 18, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.