Buffalo City Mission assistance programs in Erie County.
Residents of the city of Buffalo can get help from the City Mission. They strive to assist those that are struggling to survive in the city and in this challenging economic environment. The goal is to meet nutritional needs, help people or families find shelter and housing, and to try to end the cycle of poverty or homelessness.
Free food and groceries are offered weekly. Each family or resident from the county that qualifies will receive enough to last for several meals. This can include items to allow them to cook for themselves, including recipes.
Not only are the groceries offered by the Buffalo City Mission, but clients will also meet with case managers. They will try to address the root cause of the issue facing the client. They may have referrals to employment agencies, government programs such as SNAP food stamps, and very limited emergency financial aid for a number of needs.
Holiday assistance is available, and this includes for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. One of the main Rescue Mission programs is known as Turkey Express. This uses hundreds of volunteers from the Erie County New York region. They also rely on donations from local businesses and retailers. Thousands of low income families, children, home bound, and seniors are able to get a full Turkey Dinner from this resource. Many people from Buffalo will also be able to have the meal delivered directly to their home.
During December and for Christmas, another program operates. Hambone Express, or other partner agencies, offer home delivery of food and meals to the less fortunate. They may also have small gifts or other items for the Christmas holiday. Many people served by the Buffalo Rescue Mission are single working mothers or isolated elderly people who can’t afford the ingredients or groceries for a special holiday meal on their own.
During the holidays of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and maybe even winter, the organization will host a traditional feast. They will serve turkeys, hams, toppings, dressing and the trimmings. So call the Rescue Mission in Erie County and Buffalo if you can volunteer or need help.
A Thrift Store is available and serves as a Bargain Hunter Paradise. It is based at 510 Dick Road in Depew. Call (716) 681-9128. The public, regardless of their income, can buy low cost clothing, knickknacks, household items, linens, small appliances and more. There may even be some vintage items for sale as well. The money raised goes to pay for many of the Buffalo Mission’s meals, shelter, housing and other life-changing programs.
A shelter and transitional housing unit is available for men, and is located at 100 E. Tupper Street. Not only will they find a place to stay (if there is room), but meals, clothing, personal items, and other support is available. Social workers offer compassion, guidance, and case management to guests. It can also serve as a recovery program and emergency dorm as well.
Women and children from Buffalo have programs available to them as well. It is a smaller facility for single parents, children, victims of domestic violence and others. Buffalo City Mission will offer shelter along with food and other social support.
Some of the other resources can include a room for adult and childhood education, life skills courses and even recreation. The Cornerstone Manor Women and Children’s Shelter has helped hundreds of homeless and very low income women over the years get on the path to stability.
There is also an After School Program at Cornerstone Manor. This is a fully comprehensive program that provides a safe, nurturing, spiritual and structured academic learning environment for children and students all grades. The program also allows children that are staying at the center to build strong relationships, learn, and grow as well.
For more information on these housing programs and other resources, call the Buffalo City Mission at (716) 854-8181. The main center is located in Erie County at 100 E. Tupper Street.
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