Federal Government Shutdown

The federally-funded Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) remains delayed until further notice as New York awaits funding from the federal government. Households lacking resources that can't afford a fuel delivery or are facing a utility shutoff can apply for Emergency Assistance through their local department of social services.

New York State has completed issuing full November SNAP benefits using federal funds. December SNAP benefits will be issued on a regular schedule without delay. The recently enacted federal spending bill also fully funds SNAP through the end of the federal fiscal year 2026.

Last updated: November 14, 2025, 3:40 PM

Balance of State Continuum of Care

OTDA Home Resources & Data Balance of State Continuum of Care

Overview

A Continuum of Care (CoC) is a communitywide planning approach to promote the goal of ending homelessness. As designated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a CoC provides the basis for communities to plan for and provide housing resources to address the needs of homeless families and individuals in the community.

The CoC is tasked with designating a Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) lead agency, providing oversight of HMIS, CoC planning and submitting an application for CoC program funding through HUD's annual Program Competition.

A Balance of State (BoS) CoC typically covers a large geographic area, sometimes rural and non-contiguous jurisdictions. The New York State Balance of State Continuum of Care (NYS BoS CoC) was established in October 2018 and currently covers nine counties: Cattaraugus, Clinton, Fulton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Otsego, Putnam, Schoharie and Sullivan Counties. The Collaborative Applicant for the CoC is the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) and the HMIS Lead is CARES of NY, Inc.

2025 Training Calendar

Contact

For more information on Balance of State Continuum of Care email us at: bos.nys@otda.ny.gov

Please fill out the NYS BoS CoC Interest Form to be added to our email list.

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