Individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in Tompkins County now have new resources to help them transition to stability, thanks to a statewide initiative expanding into the Southern Tier.
The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) announced the launch of a Safe Options Support (SOS) team, designed to assist people living unsheltered and dealing with mental health and substance use challenges. Operated by Catholic Charities of Cortland County and Rehabilitation Support Services, Inc., the program began taking referrals this fall and is already helping individuals in Tompkins, Cortland, and Tioga counties.
“The Safe Options Support program is helping New Yorkers who were experiencing homelessness and with complex medical and behavioral health needs to get the care and housing they need to recover in their communities,” said Dr. Ann Sullivan, OMH Commissioner.
The SOS initiative employs a multidisciplinary approach, with teams that include peer specialists, housing experts, and mental health professionals. These specialists guide participants through transitional periods, helping them secure permanent housing and access long-term care resources.
Catholic Charities of Cortland County was awarded $5 million over five years to implement the program in partnership with Rehabilitation Support Services. Since its inception in the Southern Tier, the SOS team has enrolled individuals in critical services using the evidence-based Critical Time Intervention model, which aims to build stability during periods of crisis.
Across New York, SOS teams are addressing homelessness in 22 counties. Since their launch, the program has enrolled over 400 individuals and helped more than 140 secure permanent housing. Governor Kathy Hochul has expanded funding for the program in recent years, with an allocation of $35.2 million in the state’s fiscal year 2025 budget.
For Tompkins County, the program represents an opportunity to bridge gaps in services for the homeless population, ensuring vulnerable individuals have access to the care and support they need to thrive.
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