Last Updated on January 30, 2024 by Lori Pace
New York is a state that can offer many financial opportunities and housing assistance. This is common sense, but it can be difficult to live economically in New York. Apartment rents in New York are prohibitively expensive because of the high cost of living there. Renting a house is the most expensive expense for working individuals. As a result, living as a single mom requires additional responsibilities.
It can be difficult to find affordable housing for your family. There are many options for single mothers who are struggling to pay the household bills. Let’s look at the federal, state and local programs that are available in New York.
Rental Assistance In New York
CityFHEPS Rent Supplement Program
CityFHEPS, which is a merger of the LINC and SEPS in New York, aims to provide rent assistance for those in financial need. To make it easier for both landlords and tenants, the federal government combined these rental assistance programs under one roof. This program is available to single mothers at risk of becoming homeless or who are already homeless. This program provides safe and healthy shelters for long periods of time, in addition to rent assistance.
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York
This organization is the largest in New York and has been serving low- and moderate-income individuals since 1917. The institution offers a variety of services and programs throughout New York. This organization can help single mothers in financial hardship. They can help you with housing and rental assistance. Visit their website to learn more about their programs and eligibility requirements.
Neighbors of Watertown, Inc.
Neighbors of Watertown, Inc., a non-profit local organization, is dedicated to ensuring each neighbor has a safe and affordable place to call home. The community provides financial and rental assistance to its low-income residents. It offers a homebuyer education program for first-time homebuyers. Visit their website to learn more, or call 315-782-8497.
Homeless Shelter Assistance In New York
Pathway Home
Another program sponsored by New York’s federal government is the Pathway Home. This program is unique in comparison to other assistance programs. Pathway Home allows you to leave their shelters and move in with your family or friends. These families are called “host families” by the program. They offer to let you live with your children in their shelters until you find a family. They will also assist you in reorienting and getting back to your normal city life as quickly as possible. The Pathway Home provides monthly rent assistance once you have moved in with a host family and your children. This program requires that you spend no less than 90 days in shelters.
Salvation Army Greater New York Division
This division was established in 1880 and provides various services to low-income New Yorkers. They provide a safe and decent home until you are financially independent. This option may be an option if you require housing assistance. Visit their website to learn more.
Watertown Housing Authority
The Watertown Housing Authority was created and funded by both the State of New York and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This authority’s main purpose is to ensure that all people in need of housing have a safe, affordable place to live. This option is available to single mothers. For more information, visit their website or call 315-782-1251.
The National Low-Income Housing Coalition
This coalition works to end homelessness in New York and offers affordable and decent housing. They may be able to help single mothers. Visit their website to learn more about eligibility criteria.
Covenant House New York
Covenant House is New York’s largest homeless shelter. It is available 24 hours a day for young single mothers who need a safe and decent place to live with their children. You can always consult an authorized person whenever you need.
New York City Homebase
This program is funded by New York’s Department of Social Services. They provide housing for New Yorkers with low incomes. This program is available to single mothers who are facing homelessness. The program allows eligible families to first place their family in a safe shelter and then find a permanent home for them.
Bronxworks
Bronxworks, another local organization in New York, has been operating since 1972. Their mission is to ensure that every person in need receives financial, legal or personal assistance. Bronxworks is able to assist you in the legal process if you are being evicted.
Bronxworks will ensure that your home is not lost. If you’re homeless and have no other options, they will help you settle your family in a decent shelter or living space that provides hot meals, laundry services, and showers. Bronxworks offers emergency cash assistance to those who cannot pay rent or utility bills. Visit their website to learn more and view eligibility criteria. You can also dial 718-731-3114 for information.
Housing Financial Assistance In New York
Elmira Housing Authority
New York’s Elmira Housing Authority (Non-Profit) is an example of a non-profit organization. You must be eligible for section 8. They can also interview you face–to–face to make a decision on your case. This agency primarily provides housing assistance to low-income New Yorkers. They can help single mothers who are facing financial hardship or are about to lose their homes.
NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD)
HPD offers several programs for housing financial assistance, including rental assistance, affordable housing programs, and home repair programs.
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA)
OTDA offers several programs for housing financial assistance, including emergency housing assistance, homeless prevention, and subsidized housing programs.
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)
NYSERDA offers several programs for energy assistance and energy-efficient home improvements, which can help reduce the cost of utilities and improve the energy efficiency of your home.
New York State Division of Veterans’ Services (DVS)
DVS offers several programs for housing, financial assistance and other support services for eligible veterans and their families.
Utility Bills Assistance In New York
The New York Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The federal government sponsors the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program of New York. This program assists low-income families monthly with cooling and heating expenses. LIHEAP is available to single mothers who need financial assistance with utilities. Visit their website to learn more, or call the hotline at 212-331-3150.
The New York Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
WAP is one of the most important utility programs funded by the federal government. Its main purpose is to improve energy efficiency and provide hot water for families with low incomes. New Yorkers are spending more energy today than ever before and paying more for their energy bills. This program is more beneficial to New Yorkers over 60 and single mothers who live with their children. Your household income must not exceed 60 per cent of the state’s median income.
Eviction Prevention And Legal Assistance In New York
New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG)
New York Legal Assistance Group, a civil legal aid office, is designed to assist those in need. This service is available to single mothers who are facing a forced conviction or have legal issues regarding their household. The New York Legal Assistance Group provides financial assistance as well as legal guidance regarding housing issues.
Foreclosure Relief Unit
As its name implies, the Foreclosure Relief Unit is designed to assist with foreclosures. The Department of Financial Services of New York sponsors it. This program is open to single mothers who are facing foreclosure and don’t know what to do. You can call 800-342-3736 for an emergency or visit their website.
Tenant Protection Unit (TPU)
TPU is a statewide agency that provides assistance to tenants facing harassment, eviction, or other issues related to their housing. TPU can provide legal assistance, mediation, and other support services. You can contact TPU at 718-739-6400 or visit their website.
New York State Office of Court Administration (OCA)
OCA provides information and resources for tenants facing eviction, including information on their rights and legal options.
New York City Housing Court Help Centers
Housing Court Help Centers are located in each borough of New York City and provide free legal assistance to tenants facing eviction or other housing-related legal issues.
Emergency Housing Assistance In New York
The One Shot Program
This program is designed to assist with emergency assistance such as homelessness, forced removals, utilities, and other services. The federal government funds the program. You can find out more information on their website if you need any of these services.
Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)
ERAP is a statewide program that provides rental and utility assistance to eligible households experiencing financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program provides up to 12 months of rental and utility arrears, as well as up to 3 months of future rent payments.
Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP)
HPRP is a program offered by the New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) that provides emergency rental assistance, case management, and other support services to eligible households at risk of homelessness.
