Federal Government Shutdown

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown and the lack of federal funding, the start of applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) has been delayed until further notice. The shutdown is not yet affecting other programs overseen by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance — including Public Assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Applications for Public Assistance and SNAP are continuing to be accepted, benefits are being provided, and use of benefit cards are not impacted at this time. If the shutdown continues into November, benefits for SNAP could be delayed. This message will be updated as additional information becomes available.

Call your member of Congress now to let them know how these cuts would impact you, your family, and your community..

Last updated: October 23, 2025, 9:10 AM

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.

Lived Experience Advisory Board Flyer

Back to Top

Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance

Home

Programs

Resources

Select a Language