Our Resource Assistance Program:
Providing Food, Housing, and Transportation Benefits to Eligible New Yorkers
Our Resource Assistance Program – which serves New York City residents that receive Medicaid – provides real, tangible support entirely free-of-charge to those who qualify!
Funded by New York State, we offer no-cost immediate material and financial support to those in need.
Our Care Navigators speak with participants about their concerns, and then connect them with solutions. This can range from food deliveries, kitchen supplies, payment of back rent, assistance with transportation to important appointments, home remediation such as pest and mold removal, and more.
As Tyler Terriault, Social Care Network Enrollment Manager, explains, the program provides participants “with as many services as possible so they can improve their quality of life. If we can meet these needs, hopefully this frees them up to tackle needs in any other part of their life.”
Our person-centered approach works to meet people where they’re at in moments of need – giving them short-term aid to maintain autonomy and stability in their lives. Most of our navigators live in the communities they serve, and are knowledgeable and adept at providing responsive, culturally competent assistance.
“We get a lot of referrals, a lot of word of mouth, people recommend their family members and friends to us. Everybody knows someone who can benefit from these services,” says Tyler.
Food/Appliance Crisis Support
A household was facing food insecurity, as their refrigerator had broken and all the food had spoiled. We arranged for immediate food delivery and provided a new refrigerator & microwave.
Eviction Prevention
A family of five was facing eviction. The program provided funds to pay the rental arrears, and assisted with the application process to successfully obtain a monthly housing voucher.
Court Transportation
A parent wanted to ensure that her justice-involved son was making his court dates and related meetings. Our team set up car service appointments from their home to the courthouse.
Baby Care Supplies
A family with a young infant needed help purchasing diapers. Our staff was able to connect them with a natal care service provider, and they received diapers and other necessary baby care items free of charge.
Grocery Assistance
An expectant mother who relied on EBT benefits missed a recertification deadline, and had no means to get groceries until her EBT was reinstated. We connected her with food deliveries within 2 days.
Learn more about the benefits of this program – and whether you or someone in your network may be eligible to apply – by reading the FAQs below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for The Foundling’s Resource Assistance Program?
Residents of New York City (all 5 boroughs) who have at least 1 household member covered under Medicaid are eligible for the program. The program will assist the entire household, even if only one member has Medicaid. The program’s full services are available to Medicaid Managed Care members. Medicaid Fee-for-Service members can still receive a limited version of the program, with referrals to other community benefits and services.
What is the application process?
A potential participant first completes a quick screening questionnaire, administered by our staff via phone. To start this process, they may complete the inquiry form here or call The Foundling at 212-633-9300. Once receiving an inquiry, a Foundling staff member will reach out within 2 weeks to conduct the screening, and then the applicant will be quickly connected with services if approved.
How long can participants receive services once enrolled in the program?
Participants may receive most services for up to 6 months. After 6 months, services may be reauthorized if there is still a need. They can also reapply for services if their circumstances change.
What types of food support can the Resource Assistance Program provide?
The program can provide New Yorkers facing food insecurity with free meal boxes and grocery deliveries, nutrition planning support with trained dietitians, cooking and kitchen supplies, and large kitchen appliances (refrigerators, etc.) when needed.
What types of housing support can the Resource Assistance Program provide?
The program can provide New Yorkers who need help with housing with financial assistance. Through the program, Medicaid provides funds to pay past-due rent and utility bills, conduct pest and mold remediation, or install safety modifications in the home. They also can help participants navigate finding and applying for suitable housing, and can help them obtain city housing benefits such as vouchers.
What types of transportation support can the Resource Assistance Program provide?
The program can provide New Yorkers with free OMNY cards or car service reservations to access necessary appointments. Eligible situations include doctor appointments, meetings with social service agencies, court dates, and more.
Does this program come with any obligations or strings attached?
No – the Resource Assistance Program is a state-funded program offering free resources for Medicaid members to improve their quality of life. Participants receive services entirely free of charge, and have no obligation to enroll in further services or oversight programs.
How can I share the Resource Assistance Program with my networks and community?
Feel free to download and share the program flyer, and send interested people to the program page here. If you are a representative of a nonprofit organization or community institution and would like to connect with our team for further partnership opportunities, email 1115@NYFoundling.org.