Are you struggling to make ends meet with your utility and rent bills? Don't worry, you're not alone. Many families face financial challenges, and there are resources available to help. Whether you're experiencing temporary financial hardship or need long-term support, There are various resources and information that may help:

• Government programs like HEAP ( Home Energy Assistance Program) and ERAP (Emergency Rental Assistance Program).

• Working with your utility company to create a payment plan that works better for you

• Non-profit organizations that offer financial assistance and support services.

• Local resources in your community, such as community action agencies and utility company assistance programs.

What You Can Do:

• Negotiate with your utility provider: Contact the provider, explain the situation and request an extension. Often times, simply contacting your provider and asking them for an extension, a payment plan or a discount may be effective.

• Have due dates moved- If your provider cannot offer a discount, you can inquire about moving your due dates to a better time in the month, such as right after you’ve received your paycheck.

• Plan ahead - A balanced billing payment plan helps even out bills that are high in one season and low in another so that your energy charges stay pretty much the same throughout the year.

• Look for assistance programs

What You Can Do:

• Contact your landlord-

  Let your landlord know your financial situation and try to negotiate a payment plan.

• Check your lease-

  Your lease may have a grace period or outline your landlord's options if you're late on rent. 

• Consider various housing options- Consider alternatives, like finding housing which the government help pay (subsidized housing options), finding a place with cheaper rent, or finding a roommate. To qualify for subsidized housing, you'll need to meet certain eligibility criteria.

• Look for assistance programs

The Department of Social Services (DSS) offers a wide range of resources and support programs to individuals and families in need, including cash assistance, HEAP, housing and rent assistance programs. Contact Cattaraugus County Dept. of Social Services Friday 8:30 am - 4:00 pm, except on holidays. Phone: (716) 373-8065. They are located at 1 Leo Moss Drive, Suite 6010, Olean, New York 14760

The Salvation Army: (716) 372-6740

Connecting Communities in Action (CCA) (only after a family is denied assistance from DSS)- Address: 25 Jefferson St #1, Salamanca, NY 14779 / Phone: (716) 945-1041

Catholic Charities: Help offered on a case by case basis. Address: 2636 West State St. Suite 301 Olean, NY 14760 / Phone: (716) 372-0101

Love Inc.: Help offered on a case by case basis. Address: 15 W Main Street Gowanda, NY 14070
Phone: (716) 532-3541 / Email: gowandaloveinced@gmail.com

Trading Post: Help offered on a case by case basis. Open Monday - Wednesday - Friday 10-4pm. Address: 11 Washington St, Cattaraugus, NY 14719 / Phone: (716) 257-3077