Samaritan Center
The Samaritan Center provides urgent, short-term financial assistance, free
clothing and personal care items to families and individuals in immediate
crisis. Unique in Tompkins County, we help low and moderate income individuals
and families with utility payments, clothing, emergency prescriptions and
other miscellaneous needs. We can also help individuals and families request
health insurance coverage and food stamp benefits by assisting with Food
Stamp enrollment and enrollment in the NYS Child Health Plus/Family Health
Plus programs.
Clothing Closet: Free clothing is available to all Tompkins County residents.
Linen Closet: Linens and bedding items are available for families in need.
Personal Care Items: We offer personal care products such as shampoo, laundry soap, toilet paper and diapers for those needing short term assistance or for individuals and families in crisis. Donations of personal care items are always needed, and are tax deductible.
Financial Assistance: Financial assistance is available to Tompkins County residents only. These funds are very limited. Assistance that may be available includes help with rental security deposits, emergency prescriptions, and utility payments to avoid a shut off. Financial assistance is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Child Health Plus/Family Health Plus Enrollment: Facilitated enrollers are available at our Ithaca location to assist with the application process for Child Health Plus, Family Health Plus and Medicaid. To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-231-0744.
Referrals:
Samaritan Center staff will make referrals to many programs in
the Tompkins County area. We advocate for individuals, families and
communities, supporting those who are most vulnerable, while working
to challenge the conditions causing poverty and despair.
See contact information to reach Samaritan Center staff.