211 WNY is here to help. Click the links below to find resources in your area by filtering the results by zip code, county or city/town. Stay up to date regarding SNAP/HEAP by visiting: OTDA Federal Government Shutdown - Information and Resources
FOOD
SNAP households may not be paid until the federal government shutdown ends and funds are released. If you need help finding food, click the categories below.
Food Pantries: Programs that provide a variety of canned, boxed, fresh, and sometimes frozen food.
Formula/Baby Food: Programs that supply infant formula and/or baby food, usually in addition to other groceries.
Food Lines: Programs that provide boxes or bags of food on a first come, first serve basis to people who line up.
Packed Lunches/Dinners: Programs that provide fresh or frozen lunches or dinners packed in portable containers and typically picked up and eaten elsewhere.
Soup Kitchens: Programs that provide a sit-down meal.
Congregate Meals/Nutrition Sites: Programs that provide hot meals on a regular basis primarily for older adults who may be at risk for nutritional deficits and social isolation without assistance.
Food Vouchers: Programs that supply food coupons which can be exchanged in grocery stores for food. Vouchers are generally provided on an emergency basis.
Fresh Food: Programs that provide free fresh, perishable food. Please note, “Erie Grown” records are private farms or roadside stands where food can be purchased. Also, please be aware that Community Fridge & Shelves may not always be stocked.
Instacart: SNAP recipients can save 50% off your next order - up to $50
DoorDash: Waiving delivery and service fees for recipients at Dollar General and Wegmans
Utilities
HEAP season has also been delayed due to the government shutdown. If you need help with your utility bills please click the categories below.
Electric Service Payment Assistance: Programs that pay all or a portion of the electric service expenses of people whose electricity has been or is at risk of being shut off.
Gas Service Payment Assistance: Programs that pay all or a portion of the gas service expenses of people whose gas has been or is at risk of bing shut off.
Heating Fuel Payment Assistance: Programs that pay all or a portion of the home heating fuel expenses of people who are unable to purchase the resources to heat their homes without assistance.
Utility Bill Payment Plan Negotiation Assistance: Programs that help people negotiate manageable utility payment plans in situations where there are some resources available for this purpose. These programs do not provide funding to pay the bill or back bills.
Utility Bill Payment Plans: Utility companies that offer a variety of utility bill payment plan options that facilitate the ability of customers to bring delinquent accounts up to date and/or make their regular payments on time.
Utility Disconnection Protection: Programs, generally funded through utility rates, that prohibit utility disconnections during severe weather for households with vulnerable members including people who are ill or elderly or have disabilities or other hardships.
