Finding Help in Hard Times: A Guide to Financial Assistance in Ithaca
- Allen Williams
- Jul 11
- 2 min read
Life in Ithaca can be beautiful—but it can also be expensive. Whether you’re facing a sudden job loss, struggling to keep up with rent, or deciding between groceries and medication, you’re not alone. Many Ithacans face financial stress at some point, and fortunately, there are local resources designed to help you get back on your feet.
Here’s a guide to where and how to seek help if you’re struggling financially in Tompkins County.
Housing & Utility Assistance
Tompkins County DSS
If you’re facing eviction or struggling to pay utilities, the Department of Social Services (DSS) can help with:
Emergency housing assistance
Temporary Assistance (TA)
HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program)
320 W Martin Luther King Jr St, Ithaca
607) 274-5348
Food Assistance
Friendship Donations Network
Connects people to free food that would otherwise go to waste. Offers community food distributions and supports neighborhood pantries.
Food Bank of the Southern Tier
Provides food boxes, pantry referrals, and community meals. Use their Find Food tool to locate nearby options.
Loaves & Fishes of Tompkins County
Provides free hot meals in a welcoming space—no questions asked.
St. John’s Church, 210 N Cayuga St, Ithaca
Healthcare & Mental Health Support
Ithaca Free Clinic
Provides free basic healthcare, acupuncture, and herbal medicine. No insurance needed.
521 W Seneca St, Ithaca
Mental Health Association in Tompkins County
Offers peer support, recovery services, and connections to crisis intervention.
Job Assistance & Workforce Support
Tompkins Workforce New York
Provides help with job searches, resume building, and training programs.
171 E MLK Jr St, Ithaca
Legal & Financial Counseling
Legal Assistance of Western New York
Offers free legal help with housing, benefits, and consumer issues.
Alternatives Federal Credit Union
Their Financial Empowerment Center offers free credit counseling and budgeting advice.
Community Support & Emergency Help
2-1-1 Tompkins/Cortland
Dial 2-1-1 or visit the website for a full directory of local resources, from shelters to childcare to crisis assistance.
Final Thought
Asking for help isn’t easy—but it’s brave, and it’s a step forward. Ithaca has a strong safety net of neighbors, nonprofits, and programs that exist because someone out there cares. You are not alone, and there’s no shame in seeking support.
Have a resource to share or a story to tell? Contact us—we’re here to listen.
Follow Life in Ithaca for more guides, local updates, and ways to connect with the community.
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