Social Services & Assistance

If you or your family needs help with food, housing, health coverage, disability services, or long-term care, start here.

Start Here — Emergency & Crisis Resources

Emergency Call 911
Mental Health Crisis Call/Text 988
Resource Navigation Dial 211
211 Toll-Free 1-800-346-2211
Text Message Help Text your ZIP to 898-211

Yates County Department of Social Services

417 Liberty Street, Suite 2122, Penn Yan, NY 14527

Main: 315-536-5183 | HEAP: 315-536-5184

Quick Jump to:

Housing Food & SNAP Medicaid Disability Long-Term Care Utilities Mental Health Domestic Violence Checklist

Browse by Topic

Select a category below to access dedicated resources and information

Emergency Shelter & Housing

Homelessness prevention, emergency shelter, housing vouchers

Emergency Food & SNAP

Food pantries, SNAP benefits, WIC program

Medicaid / Health Insurance

Free or low-cost health coverage, NY State of Health

Disability Supports

OPWDD, vocational rehab, independent living

Long-Term Care & MLTC

Managed care for long-term services and supports

Utility Assistance (HEAP)

Heating/cooling costs, emergency utility help

Mental Health & Substance Use

988 crisis line, counseling, treatment services

Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault

24/7 crisis hotlines, safety planning, shelter

Veterans Resources

VA benefits, healthcare, employment assistance

Dental Emergency

Emergency dental care, free clinics, dental assistance programs

What to Bring / How to Apply

Common documents and information you'll need when applying for benefits.

ID & Identity

  • Photo ID (driver's license, passport)
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Birth certificates
  • Immigration documents (if applicable)

Income & Housing

  • Pay stubs (last 30 days)
  • Bank statements (all accounts)
  • Lease or mortgage statement
  • Utility bills

Health & Disability

  • Medicare/Medicaid cards (if currently enrolled)
  • Health insurance policy information
  • Medical records (if applying for disability)
  • Prescription medication list

Other Documents

  • Tax returns (most recent)
  • Child support/alimony orders
  • Student enrollment verification (if applicable)
  • Utility bills (for HEAP)

Tips for Applying

  • • Don't give up — applications can be denied for missing documents. Ask what you need to provide.
  • • Call 211 if you need help gathering documents or understanding the process.
  • • Keep copies of everything you submit.
  • • Ask about expedited benefits if you have an emergency.

Disclaimer

Information changes frequently. This page is not legal or medical advice. Call 211 or the listed agencies to confirm eligibility, hours, and documentation requirements before visiting in person. PennYanCitizens.com is an independent, nonpartisan civic resource and is not affiliated with any government agency.

© 2026 PennYanCitizens.com — Last updated: February 2026