Catholic Charities’ Genesee County office, Community Action of Orleans & Genesee and Salvation Army Batavia Corps are joining together to meet the needs of the local community when it comes to providing basic emergency assistance as a result of the ongoing pandemic. All three organizations received Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds to provide basic emergency assistance, including utility bills, food and rent/housing costs. The funds are only available for a limited time for residents of Genesee County.
“While there are currently no disconnect notices or eviction notices for renters with moratoriums in place, the day will come when the moratoriums, which have been in place throughout the pandemic, will be lifted,” said Lisa Wittmeyer, case manager of emergency services, Community Action of Orleans & Genesee. “Please don’t wait for the notices to receive help, we’re here and able to assist those in need now.”
“The ongoing pandemic has impacted all of us, including many who may not have needed assistance before,” said Kelly Grimaldi, tri-county district director, Catholic Charities. “We are ready to help meet basic food needs, providing food vouchers to shop at a local grocery store to choose the items needed to supplement items available from food pantries. In addition, our staff is always available to provide hope for both individuals and families by connecting them with other programs and services they may need.”
“It’s very concerning that people are in the mindset that they can wait or do not have to pay their rent,” said Todd Rapp, coordinator of emergency disaster services, The Salvation Army. “Eventually, evictions will happen and those in need should not wait to reach out to us for help. We have funds available to assist them now.”
If you are or someone you know needs basic assistance, please contact Catholic Charities (for food assistance) at 585-343-0614, Community Action of Orleans & Genesee (for utility assistance) at 585-343-7798, or Salvation Army (for rent/housing assistance) at 585-343-6284.
