Federal Government Shutdown

Due to the ongoing federal government shutdown and the lack of federal funding, the start of applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) has been delayed until further notice. The shutdown is not yet affecting other programs overseen by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance — including Public Assistance and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Applications for Public Assistance and SNAP are continuing to be accepted, benefits are being provided, and use of benefit cards are not impacted at this time. If the shutdown continues into November, benefits for SNAP could be delayed. This message will be updated as additional information becomes available.

Call your member of Congress now to let them know how these cuts would impact you, your family, and your community..

Last updated: October 23, 2025, 9:10 AM

Refugee Services (RS)

OTDA Home Programs & Services Refugee Services Information for Asylees

Information for Asylees

Have you recently been granted asylum?

The NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance through its contracted providers offer free services to asylees across New York State.

Visit a provider in your area that can assist you with:

  • Finding employment
  • Free health screening and immunizations
  • Accessing other support services

Do you need immigration assistance?

The NYS Office for New Americans (ONA) provides free and confidential services to all immigrants in New York State including:

  • Naturalization support and civics test preparation
  • Free legal services and direct representation
  • Informational community workshops and seminars
  • Mobile English Language Learning

To access any of the immigration assistance services, call the confidential, multi-lingual New York State New Americans Hotline at: 1-800-566-7636 (9am – 8pm, Monday-Friday)

To locate your nearest ONA provider and find out about free workshops & seminars visit: newamericans.ny.gov

View and print the asylee and immigration services palm card.

This page contains links to PDF documents. Download Acrobat Reader to view these documents.

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