Emergency Family Assistance

Director: Delores Scott
Phone: (716) 883-9800 x232
Email: Delores_Scott@use.salvationarmy.org

Hours of Operation: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM, Monday - Friday

The Emergency Family Assistance Program (EFA) serves as a central intake for thousands of clients, providing tangible assistance (food, clothing, etc.) to those with documented need. EFA administers several other initiatives, including Christmas assistance, providing toys, gifts, and food during the holiday season. Through this program, individuals can register for Residential Camp, which gives 60 children the opportunity to attend a week long camping adventure at Long Point Camp on Seneca Lake. In addition, the program operates the Neighbor for Neighbor Heat Fund for those 55 years and older, those receiving unemployment benefits and/or individuals with disabilities struggling to pay their heating bills.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• EFA is a basic needs program whose primary focus is the provision of food to hungry individuals, receiving food for 21 meals/household member each time they qualify for food.

• Services are free to all customers and may be in the form of vouchers issued to purchase clothing, household items, specific personal care items and pajamas for children donated by the Pajama Program's Buffalo Chapter. Our program also refers customers to additional appropriate agencies and/or advocacy services.

• Customers needing assistance may sign in for an interview and needs assessment with a caseworker Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. If there is an emergency after hours or on the weekend, there is also a 24 hour answering service available.

• The Christmas Assistance Program is provided free of charge to all eligible customers. Parents choose gifts for each child between birth and 12 years of age. If qualified, the family will receive holiday food assistance. Books donated through Project Flight are also distributed. Families with exceptional needs are referred to our Sponsored Family Program.