Catholic Charities in Oswego assistance programs.
There are times when families in Oswego New York, the city of Fulton, and individuals across the county need help. Catholic Charities administers a number of programs and resources for the less fortunate and working poor. Most of the aid they administer is focused on people who are faced with a crisis that is not of their doing. Someone may need help with paying bills or rent due to an unexpected job loss, medical emergency, car repair, or some other expense.
Emergency services for rent, utilities, and basic needs
Thousands of families have been supported over the years from their Emergency Services. This Catholic Charity resource has been a source of comfort and financial aid to thousands of lower income individuals, families and senior citizens throughout Oswego County. The Catholic Charity Emergency Assistance Program provides qualified individuals with a wide array of vital services to help people satisfy their basic needs. All resources are limited and based on funding and donations. Examples include the following.
- Health care – This can include vouchers or assistance with prescription drug costs. Some limited assistance for unexpected medical bills may be offered as well. Social workers at Catholic Charities are also a great place to learn about, and apply for public health care such as Medicaid.
- Heating and utility payments – More focused on people who are faced with a disconnection, or who are about to run out of oil or have had their power shut off during the cold upstate New York winter.
- Basic needs – Apply for vouchers for items such as free diapers and baby formula, furniture & household items, and clothing and personal hygiene items. Individuals may be able to also buy some of these items at reduced prices at the local thrift store.
- Infant supplies - In addition to above, Catholic Charities may offer diaper assistance programs for very low income parents in Oswego.
The Step By Step Wellness Program oversees the local Thrift Store. The center provides the needy and more moderate income people with the ability to acquire a number of items, including furniture & appliances, clothing for the entire family, winter coats, housewares, and books and games. The items tend to be gently used, yet still higher quality, and can be bought at reduced prices.
The Oswego Catholic Charity Food Pantry provides clients some ability to pick up what they want, and is therefore called the Client Choice Food Pantry. It offers nourishment to low to moderate income families and individuals in desperate need of groceries and free or affordable food. There are Holiday Food Baskets (including Thanksgiving and Christmas) as well as emergency food boxes for 3 days.
Self-sufficiency from Catholic Charities in Oswego
For people raising children, in particular for those who, through a variety of circumstances, have taken on the tremendous responsibility of raising and caring for their relatives children, Catholic Charities is there to help. Programs can assists them in becoming self-sufficient and case managers will work with people in achieving permanency for the children. Services offered include Needs & Strengths Assessment, Development of Child’s Interests and Abilities, Family Support Groups, Groups Emotional Support, Informal Support, Referrals to Food Pantries and Emergency Services, Advocacy, and General Solution focused planning.
Staff and volunteers from the Oswego Catholic Charities provide information and referrals on a variety of other issues and needs. These include Counseling Services, Child Care, Tutoring & Mentoring, Employment Resources, and Transportation Services.
One of the keys is helping people become self-sufficient, and that is where finding a job or acquiring new skills is so critical. A higher income level goes a long way towards helping someone pay their bills or rent. The employment assistance programs available in Oswego can help meet that need.
How to get financial help from Catholic Charities in Oswego County
Catholic Charities is located at 365 West First Street, Fulton, New York 13069, and can be reached at (315) 598-3980.
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