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

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Refugee Services (RS)

OTDA Home Programs & Services Refugee Services Trafficking Human Trafficking Awareness Campaign

Human Trafficking Awareness Campaign: Know the #TruthAboutTrafficking

Human traffickers prey on vulnerability

The Interagency Task Force on Human Trafficking is sharing a series of graphics aimed at correcting these misconceptions, along with information about how to report trafficking cases. The Task Force has designed seven unique graphics to share on social media, with each including a quote about human trafficking that is either false or misleading. Underneath each quote is a fact that corrects the misconception and provides the contact information for victims to get help and for the public or service providers to report trafficking.

Please help spread this message by sharing these graphics on social media with the hashtag, #TruthAboutTrafficking.

Click on the images or links below to download full-size versions.