NY Office of Mental Health – Safe Options Support Launches in Cortland; Program Assists Those Experiencing Homelessness

The State Office of Mental Health has announced the launch of their Safe Options Support (SOS) team which helps bring stability to those who are experiencing chronic homelessness to three counties, Cortland, Tompkins, and Tioga. The program will be jointly operated by Catholic Charities of Cortland County and Rehabilitation Support Services Inc. Teams will be in each of the three counties and will assist those experiencing homelessness with mental health and substance use challenges.

“The SOS program uses Critical Time Intervention, an evidence-based practice that helps connect vulnerable individuals in crisis to housing and supports, including critical mental health services. Teams work with individuals experiencing homelessness to strengthen their skills and support network so that they can be successfully housed, and their care can be transferred to community-based providers.”

The NY Department of Mental Health said in a release.

The Office of Mental Health says Catholic Charities was recently awarded $5 million dollars over 5 years to operate the program within Cortland, Tompkins, and Tioga Counties. Teams began earlier this summer canvassing areas in both Tioga and Cortland Counties and began to take referrals this fall.

The program offers structured and personalized support for those experiencing chronic homelessness. Teams provide peer specialists, housing specialists, and mental health professionals who will guide those going through a transition period and connect them with long-term resources needed.

“Catholic Charities is excited to take on this opportunity of bringing direct street outreach support to the unhoused in our region. The SOS program presents a different approach of low-barrier service delivery and housing support. The team we have assembled is very dedicated and motivated and is ready to meet the needs of homeless individuals across the 3 counties. The team will build upon the strengths of each individual to support them on a path toward permanent housing.  There is a lot of work ahead, but we are confident we can make a difference in people’s lives.”

Said Tim Lockwood, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of Cortland County.

More information on the Safe Options Support now available through Catholic Charities of Cortland County may be found HERE.