Connecting to Public Benefits
Connecting families to public benefits involves three steps: identifying the right service provider, referring families, and building a strong network of partners.
Service Providers
NYC's Department of Social Services/ Human Resources Administration (DSS/HRA) is dedicated to fighting poverty by providing New Yorkers in need with essential benefits.
Connect with DSS/HRA through one of the sites found on the map below or online with ACCESS HRA.
Single Stop is an organization that partners with nonprofits around NYC to connect families with free public benefits. Services vary by site.
You can find a full list of available services and Single Stop locations on the map below.
Referring Families
Tips for referring families for public benefits:
1. Consistent messaging from school staff.
2. Know where you're sending them.
3. Find conversation starters and other tools for interacting with families from Children's Health Fund's Healthy and Ready to Learn Training and Resource Center.
Coming soon: Public Policy Lab is collaborating with Community Schools on phase 2 of a pilot to better understand communicating with parents. We're excited to share what we learn in the coming months.
Network of Partners
Coming Soon: Asset and Needs Assessment.
To find the closest sites near your school for referring families to benefits, look under
Single Stop (Green Icon)
DSS/HRA Sites (Yellow Icon)
For additional partners offering services in this field, visit our Partnerships Directory.
Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Reach us on our WhatsApp chat or email communityschools@schools.nyc.gov.