Housing

The cost of housing in the U.S. has been steadily increasing in years, especially in major cities. Families that do have housing often struggle to regularly pay utilities bills, rent, and other necessary expenses. Despite programs like Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), millions of people in the U.S. are unable to find or stay in safe, accessible housing and over 500,000 are homeless. 2-1-1 receives more requests for help with finding housing or shelter or paying utility bills (over 4.4 million each year) than for any other issue. Whether you need to find an emergency shelter, avoid homelessness, or find help staying in your home, contact 2-1-1 for support.

 
 

Catholic Charities of Cortland County

We know housing expenses can be tough. But we may have the resources to help those who are homeless or at-risk of homelessness, access the services they need.  Funding is very limited so requests are prioritized as they are received.

​​This program is available as a last resort and applicants must apply for other benefits from the Department of Social Services, such as the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), before our resources can be used.

cortland housing assistance council

Our Services Are Available To All Of Cortland County

  • Apartment rentals for low to moderate income families and handicapped persons

  • Affordable home ownership program for first time home buyers

  • Housing counseling

  • Handicapped ramp program

  • Modifications of homes to adapt to the needs of persons with disabilities

cortland housing authority

The Authority has 306 Housing Choice vouchers (Section 8) for Cortland County to help people rent private apartments. With these vouchers, tenants pay a maximum of 40% of their income for rent and utilities. The balance is covered by a federal subsidy.

Area Agency on Aging

The mission of the Area Agency is to advocate, plan, develop, and provide a coordinated system of programs and services on behalf of all senior citizens of Cortland County so that they may live with maximum independence, autonomy, and dignity.