Maybe you just lost your job. Or your home. Or you're on a restricted income and are having trouble making ends meet. Maybe you're a little down on your luck and need some assistance.
As we see with the resilience of Ruby Duncan in the documentary "Storming Caesars Palace," (now available to stream for free online) there's nothing wrong with needing and asking for help.
Here's a list of community resources to help you get by and get back to thriving.
CEO: Food Pantry, WIC, Weatherization Assistance, Free Tax Preparation.
City Mission (Schenectady): Shelter, Food Programs, Employment Programs, Clothing Programs.
Equinox: Help for domestic violence survivors including Emergency Shelter, Food, Clothing, Case Management, Legal Assistance, and more.
Free Food Fridge: Access to Fresh Food, Ready-Meals, Local Farm Items, and more.
Regional Food Bank of NENY: Backpack Program, School Pantry, Mobile Pantries, Senior Food Delivery, and more.
Joseph's House: Supported Housing, Community Meals, Emergency Shelter, Family Resettlement and Support Services, and more.
Legal Aid Society of NENY: Legal Support in cases including on Domestic Violence, Housing, and Public Benefits.
NYS Social Services: Apply for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), Check Eligibility for Childcare Assistance, Apply for Heating/Cooling Assistance.
Sidewalk Warriors: Food Distribution, Free Pick-Up of Household Items, and more.
Troy Area United Ministries: a Furniture Program, Scholarships, the Damien Center of Troy for those impacted by HIV/AIDS, and Computers for Kids.
United Way of the Greater Capital Region: Free Tax Preparation, Prescription Savings, Summer Meals, and more.
Unity House of Troy: Career Planning, Housing, Domestic Violence Services, Child Care, Free Legal Consultation, and Young Programming.
Upper Hudson Library System: Coordinated Outreach Services, Free Tax Help, Access to Tools/Equipment/Games, Free Programming.
YWCA of the Greater Capital Region: Assistance with Housing, Ready for School programs, Ready for Work programs, Food Pantry, and Community Meals.
Not sure where to start? Simply dial 2-1-1. This service connects individuals with resources that can help, including emergency food and shelter, services for families and senior citizens, health care, childcare, services for people with disabilities and more. The 211 resource is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. More information is available here.
Let us know on our social media platforms which organizations you go to for help when you've needed it!