County starts one-stop resource hub for residents in need

Press Release, Orleans County government

ALBION – In response to the recent stop to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit payments due to the federal government shutdown, Orleans County Emergency Management, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health), the county Department of Social Services, and the Orleans County Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) have collaborated to create a new online, one-stop hub to help residents find free or affordable sources of food.

The hub also provides links to 211NY, CODE BLUE, and additional county social services and mental health resources.

The COAD, which is a coalition of local nonprofits, faith-based organizations, government agencies, and volunteers, recognized the growing need for a single reliable information source for residents. The group worked closely with the various COAD partners to develop a single location where residents can find information regarding food pantries, food drives, and free or reduced cost meals.

“This initiative reflects the county’s and COAD’s shared mission of strengthening community resilience,” said Lynne Johnson, chairman of the Orleans County Legislature. “By pooling resources and expertise, Orleans County is ensuring that residents know that help is out there and available to everyone.”

Residents, by clicking here, can access the resource center and explore the various options available to them.

“The halt to SNAP benefits has placed an added burden on many families across the county that are already facing economic challenges,” said Justin Niederhofer, director of Emergency Management. “This issue is impacting over 10 percent of our residents, so our goal is to ensure that every resident knows where to turn to get the help they need.”

Holli Nenni, commissioner of Orleans County Department of Social Services, wanted to remind SNAP recipients that any available SNAP benefits that remain on the SNAP EBT card are still available for use.

“Recipients can check their card balance online at ebtEDGE.com or by calling 1-888-328-6399,” said Nenni. “And, of course, we will release any updates from the SNAP division of the Office of Temporary and Disability as they become available.”