Community Action relocates emergency services, case management to Main Street, behind thrift store

Provided photo: A food pantry and other services from Community Action are now located at 131 S. Main Street, accessible from Platt Street.

Press Release, Community Action of Orleans & Genesee

ALBION – Community Action of Orleans & Genesee is excited to announce that its Orleans County Emergency Services and Case Management programs will officially open today at a new location.

The new office, located at 131 South Main St., is just steps behind the agency’s Main Street Thrifts, Gifts, and More store in Albion. Customers are advised to enter through the Platt Street entrance to the plaza.

This move from 409 East State St. reflects Community Action’s commitment to being more accessible to the people it assists. With a more central location, the agency hopes to remove barriers for families who rely on support programs, especially those without reliable transportation.

“We know how important it is for our programs to be easy to find and even easier to access,” said Ryan Lasal, Director of Community & Family Program Innovation at Community Action. “This move brings us closer to the heart of our community and allows us to better meet people where they are.”

The new office will also house the food pantry, previously located at the State Street address. However, the overnight pantry at 409 East State Street will remain open, ensuring that individuals in immediate need continue to have after-hours access to food assistance.

“Sometimes it’s just helping someone get through a tough month — whether it’s paying a bill, getting food, or finding a bit of stability,” Lasal said. “This move brings us closer to the people who rely on us, making it easier to be there when they need us most.”

In addition to the existing programs CAOG offers to help people become self-sufficient, CAOG is actively involved in the New York Health Equity Reform (NYHER) Program, also known as the “1115 Waiver Program.”

This initiative allows all Medicaid members to be screened for unmet needs related to housing, nutrition, and transportation. Based on screening results and other eligibility criteria, Medicaid members may receive free services to support their overall health and well-being, including rent or utility assistance, medically necessary home modifications, food prescriptions, pantry stocking, transportation, and more.

Community Action of Orleans and Genesee is contracted with the FLIPA “Social Care Network” for which Community Action CEO, Renee Hungerford serves as co-chair of the governing board. The program is funded in New York State through March 2027.

“We will soon be offering these screenings at all locations, including the 131 South Main Street location,” Hungerford said. “We are excited that the new location will make these opportunities more accessible.”

All other Community Action programs will continue operating from their current locations. To learn more about Emergency Services, Case Management, or food assistance, community members are encouraged to call (585) 589-5605 or visit www.caoginc.org.