Eviction Resources
When facing eviction, tenants have a number of resources aimed to help them legally and financially. These resources will tell you about your rights as a tenant, provide free legal assistance, if needed, and help you determine if you qualify for rental assistance.
Below are the most common resources. For more information or further resources such as employment assistance, healthcare, childcare, and financial assistance, tenants can dial 2.1.1 (1.877.211.8667), email iandr@hsctc.org or visit 211Tompkins.org.
211 Tompkins Cortland is a program of the Human Services Coalition.
Tompkins County’s Homelessness Emergency Hotline: This DSS hotline (607.277.5500) provides assistance to persons experiencing homelessness and a range of other emergency situations. Callers can be connected to local resources for housing, food and furniture. There is also a 24-Hour Homeless Emergency Hotline: 607.354.8990.
Tompkins Co.’s Home Energy Assistance DSS’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps Tompkins County residents meet the high costs of home energy and offers emergency assistance. Call 607.274.5264.
Residential (non-commercial) tenants can get free legal advice through the Tenants Legal Hotline.
Callers will be connected with a Cornell law student who works closely with a licensed attorney to provide brief advice. Call 607.301.1560 or email tenantslegalhotline@gmail.com.
The Legal Assistance of Western New York, Inc. is a non-profit law firm that provides free legal aid to people with civil legal problems in Western New York. Their expansive resources cover services in health, housing, employment, family, income, and more. Call 607.273.3667.
The Ithaca Tenants Union is a community organization of Ithaca tenants with a focus on tenant solidarity and community organizing. With a building database of landlord reports and reviews, they provide helpful information to Ithaca renters and stand by their side through any issue they may face. Email them at ithacatu@gmail.com or call 607.358.5048.
Tompkins Community Action Program Rental Assistance Housing Voucher provides rental subsidies to income-eligible individuals and households through the Ithaca Housing Authority and Tompkins Community Action. Call 607-273-8816.
Housing Stability Supplement Program (HSSP)
Open to Low Income City of Ithaca Residents who are:
- Currently in eviction proceedings and/or
- Rent burdened and/or
- Fleeing Domestic Violence
Program benefits include:
- Direct payments of $300 per month, up to 18 months
- Personalized assistance from a 211 Housing Specialist
Priority will be given to BIPOC applicants due to the disproportionate instability faced by this community owing to systemic racism.
To learn more or apply for HSSP dial 2.1.1 (1.877.211.8667) or email one of our housing specialists.
Brett Irish
birish@hsctc.org
Simone Gatson
sgatson@hsctc.org
Contact Us
To learn more dial 2.1.1 (1.877.211.8667) or email our housing specialist.
Brett Irish
birish@hsctc.org