County Provides Update For Benefit Programs Affected by Government Shutdown

With the ongoing federal shutdown, Cortland County has provided an update for residents who are on benefit programs affected by the shut down. As of now, Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for the month of November will not be issued at this time. The county says once the federal government reopens, or other federal funding is provided, all missed benefits will be issued retroactively.

Households on SNAP will continue to be updated on their status of SNAP benefits through three websites, NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, NY MyBenefits, and FIS EbtEdge. A hotline is also available by calling 1-888-328-6399. Text messages will also be sent to SNAP households.

The Cortland County Department of Social Services (DSS), will continue to process SNAP cases without change or disruptions, this includes accepting and processing applications, recertifications, expedited screening, required closing actions, and other case actions. Language in the notices have not been edited to inform SNAP households regarding the suspension of SNAP benefits, the county noted.

The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) also provided updates on the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). As of now, DSS cannot accept HEAP Regular Component applications until the OTDA opens the season. The date on when the season will open is dependent on the release of federal funds. Cortland County says early outreach applications will continue to be processed, but no payments will go out until federal funds are received and then disbursed by the OTDA. Applications for heat-related emergency benefits under the Public Assistance program income guidelines can be accepted through DSS. These are different from those of the HEAP program.

Cortland County says Public Assistance benefits are not impacted by the ongoing federal shutdown at this time.

Residents in the county may utilize the 2-1-1 number to assist them in getting connected with services in their community. The number is available 24/7 with access to call counselors ready to offer you assistance with information and referrals to human service agencies and programs.

Cortland County has also provided a food pantries food connect map, which can be found HERE.