Cortland County Community Resources

GHS Federal Credit Union is Committed to Building Financial Wellness for All

Discover local support with GHS FCU’s Community Resources page! Our goal is to connect members and neighbors to trusted, local non-profits and government programs for housing, food, healthcare, family services, and more. We’re here to help marginalized and under-served communities thrive with access, support, and financial wellness.

Access to Independence of Cortland County (ATI)

Access to Independence of Cortland County (ATI) is a nonprofit, community-based organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in their communities. As a Center for Independent Living, ATI provides services such as independent living skills training, peer support, advocacy, information and referrals, and transition assistance. ATI works to remove barriers, promote inclusion, and ensure individuals have the tools and support to make their own choices and lead self-directed lives.

adaptive physical education at suny cortland

The Physical Education Department at SUNY Cortland offers a variety of physical activity opportunities for children and adults with disabilities. All programs begin the third week in September. Registration is required, so call early as some programs have limited enrollments.

Catholic Charities of Cortland County

Catholic Charities of Cortland County (CCOCC) is a non-profit human service agency providing services in Cortland County since the 1970s. Services are targeted to those affected by mental health and substance use disorders, people living in poverty, and at-risk youth. Care coordination, residential and housing services, peer supports services and emergency assistance are available. The agency was incorporated in 1925 as part of the larger seven county Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Syracuse, which includes Cortland, Broome, Onondaga, Oneida, Madison, Chenango, and Oswego Counties.

Child Development Council

The Child Development council of CNY is a non-profit 501(c)3 that has been serving Tomkins and Cortland Counties for over 55 years. The Child Development Council promotes and advocates for the healthy development and wellbeing of children and families at home, in child care, and in our community through inclusive individualized services, education, and connections to community resources.

cortland Child Find and early intervention Programs

The Child Find Program is a developmental monitoring program for infants and children who are “at risk” for developmental delays. The Early Intervention Program provides developmental evaluation services to children with a suspected developmental delay and treatment services to eligible children and their families, in order to promote optimal development. Services offered include: Assistance in Transition from EIP to Pre-School Programs, Audiological, Evaluation, Family Counseling, Group Therapy, Individual Therapy (Physical, Occupational, and/or Speech), Respite, Screening, and Service Coordination.

CHILDREN AND YOUTH WITH SPECIAL HEALTH CARE NEEDS (CYSHCN)

The Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Program seeks to improve the system of care for children and youth with special health care needs from birth and up to 21 years of age and their families. The Program helps to shape public policy so families can get the best health care for their children. Children served by the CYSHCN Program have an illness or condition for which they need extra health care and support services. These children might have a serious or long-lasting: Physical condition, intellectual or developmental disability, and/or behavioral or emotional condition.

Children’s Health Home of Upstate NY

Navigating the current health care system can be difficult for many children and families who are experiencing new health issues or trying to maintain chronic conditions. Health Home services are provided through a network of organizations – providers, health plans and community-based organizations. When all the services are considered collectively they become a virtual “Health Home.” Children from birth to age 21 must be enrolled in Medicaid AND meet eligibility criteria by having two or more chronic health conditions. Through a Care Manager a Children’s Health Home provides: Comprehensive Care Management, Care Coordination and Health Promotion, Comprehensive Transitional Care, Individual and Family Support, and Referral to Community and Social Support Services.

Cortland County Children’s Home

The Children's Home office located at 165 Main Street, Suite B-1 Cortland, NY 13045 provides services and resources to children and their families in Cortland and Tompkins County.

cORNELL cOOPERATIVE EXTENSION OF CORTLAND COUNTY

Since 1913, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cortland County (CCE-Cortland) has responded to the needs of local residents with unbiased, research-based information, tools and education that people have come to depend on and trust. Their programs are developed in direct response to community input, and are based on the most current information available from Cornell and other Land Grant universities from across the nation.

The mission of Cooperative Extension is to enable people to improve their lives and communities through partnerships that put experience and research knowledge to work. Extension staff and trained volunteers deliver education programs, conduct applied research, and encourage community collaborations. Their educators connect people with the information they need on topics such as commercial and consumer agriculture; nutrition and health; youth and families; finances; energy efficiency; economic and community development; and sustainable natural resources. Our ability to match university resources with community needs helps us play a vital role in the lives of individuals, families, businesses, and communities throughout Cortland County.

Cortland County Office for Aging

The mission of the Cortland County Office for Aging is to educate, empower, and enrich the quality of life for all older adults as well as individuals with disabilities in Cortland County. The Office for Aging ensures an inclusive system that promotes services which provide maximum independence and dignity for older adults, families, and caregivers.

Cortland Youth Bureau

The Cortland Youth Bureau will provide the community the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of recreational and educational programs. They will strive to provide the highest quality programs and facilities that meet the needs of the diverse communities it serves. It is their desire to combine a positive environment with a rewarding experience. They will enhance healthy and active lifestyles while connecting more people to parks, programs and youth services. They will do this through stewardship of public resources and by providing programs and spaces to fulfill unmet needs.

Cortland Community Center

The Cortland Community Center is dedicated to promoting community pride and neighborhood attachment by working to increase resident involvement and satisfaction and by offering positive, healthy social /recreational activities to Cortland, New York. The Cortland Community Center provides diverse classes open to all ages and skill levels, fostering personal growth and community engagement.

Cortland Community Foundation

The Cortland Community Foundation is the only public foundation responding exclusively to the needs of Cortland area organizations and the people they serve. Grants from the Foundation help support capital improvement projects and provide many types of equipment, materials and supplies for local organizations.

Cortland County Health Department

The Cortland County Health Department offers a variety of services with the goal of promoting health, preventing disease, disability, and injury, while enhancing thew quality of life across the Cortland community.

Cortland County Mental Health Department

The Cortland County Mental Health Department provides a variety of resources to residents of the Cortland area including a mental health clinic, family support services, prevention services and resources for children and youth, and a variety of collaborations with the community at large.

Cortland County SPCA

Cortland County SPCA is a proud staple of the local community. They are a no-kill, private animal shelter that adopts out dogs and cats, provides low cost spay/neuter services to the public, and enforces animal cruelty laws county wide. 

Cortland County Community Action Program

Cortland County Community Action Program, Inc. (CAPCO) is the community action agency serving all of Cortland County with additional services in Chenango & Tompkins counties. Their mission is to provide programs and resources that promote self-reliance and dignity. CAPCO has been providing quality services and programs to the community since 1974. As a community action agency, CAPCO has a unique commitment to the community. Community action changes people's lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. They care about the entire community, and are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other. They invite you to join in this commitment to make the Cortland community a better place to live for everyone individuals and families, children, adults and seniors.

Cortland Free Library

UHS Hospital has one of the largest opioid treatment facilities in NY. Addiction medicine at UHS partners with other local hospitals, jails and other community organizations to train staff on how to deal with addiction and substance abuse. With direct access to medical personnel on staff they are able to prescribe medications to help those in need.

Cortland Housing Assistance Council, Inc.

Central New York Housing Counseling Agency certified by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Administrators of First Time Homebuyers program through the Affordable Housing Corporation of New York State. Owner/manager at Pomeroy School Apartments, 33 units of affordable housing for low to moderate income, elderly, handicapped, disabled residents. Sub-contract handyman and ramp programs from the Cortland County Area Office on Aging, as well as erecting tubular aluminum handicapped ramps for elderly person with accessability issues.

Cortland Loaves and Fishes

Loaves and Fishes mission is to feed those in need in the Cortland and surrounding communities. A safe place with free meals, hospitality, and companionship.  No questions asked, no judgements passed. Since1984 Cortland Loaves & Fishes has been in Cortland County, providing free, nutritious meals and gentle hospitality. Loaves & Fishes serves free daily meals Monday through Saturday from their location in the parish hall of Grace and Holy Spirit Church located at 13 Court St. in Cortland.

Cortland Migrant Education Outreach Program

The Cortland METS assists school districts in their efforts to meet the special needs of migrant students and works to bridge educational and social service equity, access, and opportunity gaps.  The Cortland METS  supports high-quality, comprehensive educational programs designed to improve migrant students’ academic and life outcomes and eradicate barriers to academic persistence and achievement, with the goal of ensuring that every migrant student reaches challenging academic standards and graduates with a high school diploma or its equivalent. Additionally, the Cortland METS provides cross-sectoral advocacy services to MEP-eligible students and families, including facilitating access to educational, healthcare, employment, nutritional, legal, and other government- and community-based services for which they may be entitled or eligible. The Cortland METS is tasked with providing the aforementioned services to MEP-eligible students and families across a 12-county region of Central New York and the Southern Tier.

Cortland Prevention Resources

Cortland Prevention Resources provides evidence-based drug, alcohol, and tobacco prevention services and educational programs for youth and families. They collaborate with other Cortland County agencies, school districts, and businesses to promote positive change and build healthy communities through educational programs, workshops, and training. They work on policy and enforcement efforts to reduce underage drinking and create positive alternative activities for youth. Cortland Prevention Resources is a division of Family & Children's Counseling Services.

Cortland Veterans Service Agency

The mission of Veterans Services is to provide professional services for military veterans and their dependents and survivors who are entitled to benefits from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the State of New York, and other agencies as applicable.

The Veterans Service Office was established to serve the veteran population of Cortland County. The office assists veterans and their dependents and survivors to obtain benefits from the federal, state and local agencies administering programs for veterans, and provides advocacy to the veterans community regarding entitlement rights to federal, state and local benefits programs.

Cortland Works Career Center

Cortland Works Career Center is designed to help provide a full range of assistance to job seekers and businesses under one roof.  They offer access to training, job search assistance, and organizational aid.  They can help with resumes, cover letters, career guidance and exploration, training options, job postings and more.  They are there for all job seekers whether young or old, recently released or disabled, new to the working field or long term employee, veterans or heading to college. 

Country Acres Animal Shelter

Country Acres Animal Shelter is a not for profit animal shelter. Located in Homer, NY they provide boarding, adoption, vaccination, and dog control services in Homer and surrounding areas.

Elizabeth Brewster House

It is the mission of the Elizabeth Brewster House to provide a safe and comfortable home that ensures quality care and a healthy lifestyle for its' senior citizens. They are passionate about providing seniors with the care and attention they need to thrive. Elizabeth Brewster House is proud to be a 501C3 organization, and the board of directors ensures that we maintain the highest standards of care. They truly believe that our residents deserve nothing but the best, and we go above and beyond to make sure that they feel valued and respected. If you're looking for a senior care facility that puts your loved one's health and happiness first, Elizabeth Brewster House is a perfect choice.

Family and Children’s Counseling Services

Family and Children’s Counseling Services is a private, non-profit organization offering professional counseling and prevention services. Their mission is to support and strengthen individuals, families and the community by building resilience and promoting health, happiness and recovery in all aspects of life. They offer a variety of youth, mental health, and substance abuse assistance programs.

Family Connection inc.

Family Connections, Inc., is a not-for-profit, New York State authorized private adoption agency who has been caring for families through domestic and international adoption since 1994. They are dedicated to supporting birth parents, adoptive parents, and children touched by adoption throughout the life-long journey of adoption.

Family Health Network of CNY Inc.

Established in 1972, Family Health Network (FHN) is a Federally Qualified Health Center(FQHC), serving Cortland and contiguous counties. FHN is the only source of care in three of the five communities served, and the only source of sliding adjustments for low-income individuals and families in the Cortland County region. In addition, they are also a FTCA Deemed Facility. Programs include: Family Practice, Women’s Health, Perinatal Program, Pediatrics, Occupational Health, School Health Program, Family Dentistry

FHN accepts private insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare. They also offer a sliding fee for those who qualify. FHN offers assisted enrollment in Child Health Plus, and Medicaid for Adults.

Food Bank of CNY

Established in 1985, Food Bank of Central New York is a not-for-profit organization leading the fight to end hunger across an 11-county service area that includes Central New York, Northern New York, and the Mohawk Valley. The Food Bank acts as the primary food distribution hub for hundreds of food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and faith-based organizations in the region.

In addition to food acquisition and distribution, Food Bank of CNY address the root causes of food insecurity through innovative programming, nutrition education, outreach, and collaboration with non-traditional food bank partners such as healthcare providers. The Food Bank also engages in state and federal advocacy efforts to strengthen anti-hunger policy and work alongside community partners to create lasting solutions that ensure all neighbors can thrive.

Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties

Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a global, nonprofit housing organization working in nearly 1,400 communities across the United States and in approximately 70 countries around the world. They build strength, stability and self-reliance in partnership with people and families in need of a decent and affordable home.

Habitat for Humanity of Tompkins and Cortland Counties partners with first-time homebuyers in the community to help them build or improve a place they can call home.

Helping hands caring heart

Helping Hands Caring Heart is a faith-based pregnancy & parent support center helping those in need. They are open Monday, Wednesday, or Thursday from 10am-12pm. 25 Church St., inside the United Presbyterian Church.

Homer Food Pantry

The pantry serves the residents of Homer, New York and the surrounding communities of the Homer School District.  The pantry is supported by Homer First United Methodist Church, Homer Congregational Church, and the greater Homer community. Individuals are welcome to access the pantry once a month to receive a generous distribution of food.  Amounts vary depending on number in household.  Items include hot/cold cereal, canned vegetables and fruits, pasta/pasta sauce, beans, rice, peanut butter, jelly, soups, frozen meats, eggs, cheese, margarine, bread, desserts, and toilet paper.  A different personal care item (such as laundry detergent or shampoo) is distributed each month as well.

JM Murray

JM Murray is a unique organization with two interconnected divisions:

• Services Division: Provides compassionate support to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

• Business Division: Offers business-to-business solutions to public and private organizations globally.

Together, these divisions create meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in community-based work environments. Their approach not only teaches valuable skills but also fosters confidence and enriches lives.

josie’s journey

Josie’s Journey has been created to provide canine comfort to individuals/organizations during times of crisis and what constitutes a crisis is identified by the individual/organization. Their mission is to use the presence of canines to provide support, comfort and encouragement to individuals and/or groups during times of crisis and stressful situations. Through the use of volunteers, grant funds, sponsorships and donations, canines will provide a free of charge support session to individuals during times of crisis.

Kiwanis Club of Cortland

Kiwanis Club of Cortland is an organization made up of an eclectic mix of ages, genders, occupations, backgrounds and interests. They are all passionate about making the community and the world a better place for children so they can thrive. Members are devoted to serving the children in our local community and also children all across the country and worldwide through unique and innovative service projects and fundraising initiatives.

Mothers and babies perinatal network

Mothers and Babies mission is to improve pregnancy and birth outcomes to support the health and development of all individuals and families. To accomplish this they educate our communities, connect individuals and families to health and other services, advocate for system improvements, and partner with other agencies, government and providers to strengthen families. Mothers and babies focuses on every element of care, from the individual to the health care system to policymakers. For over 25 years, they have been at the forefront of innovative strategies, serving as a trusted resource and authority in maternal and child health care.

Person to Person

The mission of Person to Person: Citizen Advocacy (PPCA) is to reduce the risk of social isolation for adults with developmental disabilities. PPCA programs respond to these needs by fostering the growth of meaningful relationships rooted in community support and one on one connections.

The PPCA staff make a match between a protégé (a person with a developmental disability) and an advocate (community volunteer) in which both share their gifts, talents, and friendship. The match is formed by mutual agreement between the advocate and protégé and exists as long as they both are satisfied. There are no minimum requirements or expectations on the duration of a match, when and how often the advocate and protégé are together, or what activities take place during their time together.

Puzzle solvers inc.

Puzzle Solvers, Inc. is  a non-profit organization founded in 2009. The organization was started by a small group of professional women who wanted to help improve the quality of life for families in the Cortland community, impacted by autism spectrum disorder. Puzzle Solvers works to provide resources,  increase acceptance and raise funds for families and individuals impacted  by ASD so families have an  enhanced quality of life.

Rural Health institute of NY

The Rural Health Institute of New York (RHI) works to measurably improve public health through facilitation of targeted community driven initiatives. Based in Cortland, New York, they are a public health institute committed to helping rural communities across the state improve population-level health through use of data, collaboration, and communication.

score cny

SCORE Central NY offers FREE business advice, small business workshops, and numerous templates and tools to help you start or grow a business. SCORE is a group of experienced business professionals who guide those desiring to start up a new small business or assist existing small businesses in improving their profitability. SCORE’s volunteers are experts with experience in areas such as; accounting, finance, human resources, consulting, import/export, law, operations, production, retail, wholesale, manufacturing, sales, marketing, management, business plan preparation, strategic planning, and many other business disciplines.

seven valleys health coalition

Seven Valleys Health Coalition (SVHC) has been working to improve the health and well-being of the Cortland County community since 1994. Their commitment to the rural communities they serve guides everything that they do: helping people access healthcare services, educating the public on prevention and management of chronic health conditions, encouraging good oral health, increasing access to mental health services, creating an environment that fosters physical activity and healthy eating, and expanding transportation options.

Southern Tier Connect

STC provides comprehensive care management by referring and connecting our members to appropriate healthcare providers, social programs, and community-based organizations, including support and faith-based groups by request. Their network of exceptional providers and care managers is vital for anyone managing a diagnosis of an intellectual and/or developmental disability.

Springbrook

Springbrook’s mission is to empower individuals with developmental disabilities by providing exceptional and individualized services that foster independence, promote personal growth, and nurture a sense of belonging. Through their family of companies, they are dedicated to creating inclusive communities where every person is valued, respected, and supported in reaching their full potential. Springbrook’s commitment to providing local services is unwavering, as they strive to create innovative and sustainable solutions that not only address today’s challenges but also pave the way for a better tomorrow. Springbrook offers opportunities for everyone to grow to their fullest potential, learn without limits, and thrive within the community. Each person at Springbrook is treated with dignity and respect, and their staff take the extra time to get to know each person and work tirelessly to make sure all of their needs are met. 

The Arc Madison Cortland

The Arc Madison Cortland is a chapter member of The Arc New York who’s sole purpose lies in the support of people with special needs. At the Arc, all people are valued and productive members of society and are treated with dignity and respect. They encourage creativity by adapting to the unique and varying needs of each individual. The Arc Madison Cortland is a strong parent/family based organization with several members of the Board of Directors being relatives of a person with a disability. They offer unique experiences to ensure the best quality of support and services The Arc can provide.

The Cortland LGBTQ Center

The Cortland LGBTQ Center seeks to create a visible and empowered community through education, advocacy, resource enhancement, and linkages to essential services for all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer-identified people, as well as their families and other supportive community members. The Cortland LGBTQ Center, as a Division of Family & Children's Counseling Services, is committed to serving all clients regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or ability to pay.

The Racker Center

For over 75 years, Racker has provided strength-based support for individuals with disabilities and their families in Tompkins, Cortland and Tioga counties. Guided by the vision of a world where all people know they belong, Racker offers programs and services to more than 3,500 people, helping them to build lasting connections and lead fulfilling lives.

United Way for Cortland County

The United Way is specifically structured to support and partner with numerous service programs to amplify impact in addressing the needs of area individuals and families. They currently support programs that improve physical and mental health, address immediate financial needs, promote economic self-sufficiency, and create healthy and safe families. The United Way works with agencies to identify and support programs that make positive impacts.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Tioughnioga Post #2354 

The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States is a nonprofit veterans service organization comprised of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, guard and reserve forces. The VFW’s core values are to always put the interests of members first, treat donors as partners in their cause, promote patriotism, honor military service, ensure the care of veterans and their families, serve their communities, promote a positive image of the VFW, and respect the diversity of veteran opinions.

YMCA of Cortland

The YMCA believes that every man, woman, and child has the right to a safe and supportive place where they can meet their wellness goals. Currently, almost 3,000 people participate in programs or utilize services at the YMCA each year. The YMCA is working hard to expand programs to better meet the needs of our community members regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

The YMCA believes all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve, under the guidance of caring adults who believe in their potential. They see every interaction with young people as an opportunity for learning and development, all grounded in the Y’s core value of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. They help people and families build and maintain healthy habits for spirit, mind, and body in their everyday lives. By helping kids, adults, families, and seniors from all walks of life improve their health and well-being, we build a stronger community. Their doors are open to all, bringing together people from all backgrounds, to support those in need. They take on the most urgent needs in the community and inspire a spirit of service in return. Members, volunteers, supporters, and staff demonstrate the power of what can be achieved by giving back together.

YWCA of Cortland

YWCA Cortland is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. As a service agency, the YWCA offers a climate where women and family members of all ages may find a place to enrich their lives through experience in the fields of health, recreation, personal and social relationships, knowledge and skills, vocational aids, leadership training, public affairs, community services, and international relationships.

211 Cortland

This 3-digit phone number, 2-1-1, provides 24 hours/day, 7 days/week access to call counselors ready to provide you with information and referrals to human service agencies and programs serving the area. Specialists assist you in finding the help and answers you need, as quickly as possible. 2-1-1 works a bit like 911. Calls to 2-1-1 are routed by the local telephone company to a local or regional calling center. The 2-1-1 center's I&R specialists gather information on the caller's needs, access databases of resources available from private, not-for-profit, and public health and human service agencies, match the callers' needs to available resources, and link or refer them directly to an agency or organization that can help.