Erie County Department of Social Services

Marie Cannon, Commissioner of Social Services

We envision a community where children, adults and families are healthy and safe and enjoy a quality life. As a responsive and efficient organization, we seek to continually engage the community in defining the role of Social Services. Our mission is to engage people in need and provide a broad range of efficient and effective assistance and services with community partners to facilitate a better future for the people of Erie County.

What's Happening in Erie County Department of Social Services

How to obtain a NYS Benefit ID Card

For your convenience...

It is reminded that those seeking New York State Benefit ID cards at the Rath Building may do so on the first floor, 158 Pearl St. side.

How do I obtain my NYS Benefit ID Card?

Go to the self-server kiosk on on the first floor to attain a Photo ID ticket.
Have a seat in Waiting Area D.
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Erie County Department of Social Services offering supports to furloughed federal employees

Federal workers affected by the government shutdown are facing unnecessary uncertainty in providing for themselves and their families while the shutdown continues. The Erie County Department of Social Services is offering supports to these furloughed workers with two programs for emergency assistance that furloughed fedearl workers may qualify for and utilize immediately: Emergency Temporary...

Federal Shutdown Impact on SNAP - update

Our Department is in communication with both New York State and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) about the impact a prolonged federal shutdown will have on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. We are hoping to prevent a disruption of benefits for Erie County residents.

If you received a SNAP benefit in January and were scheduled to receive SNAP in...

Erie County Department of Social Services Vendor List

The Erie County Department of Social Services (ECDSS) is looking for vendors to provide products or services for ECDSS customers. If interested, please fill out the attached ECDSS Vendor Application and submit to ECDSS via e-mail, fax or mail. Applications received will be reviewed by...

HEAP office moves to 460 Main St.

The Erie County Department of Social Services has moved its Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and Emergency Services offices to 460 Main Street in Buffalo from the location of the old HEAP office, located at 478 Main St. The Department is currently accepting applications for 2018-2019 HEAP Regular benefits. The season will run through March 15, 2019, or sooner if funding is exhausted....

Code Blue temperature provisions in effect this week in Buffalo

Beginning Thursday, November 15, 2018, Code Blue temperature provisions are in effect in Buffalo. These provisions include when the temperature, or wind chill, is 32 degrees or colder, Harbor House being open for those needing housing, a meal, and a warm place to stay the night. Harbor House is located at 241 Genesee St. in Buffalo and will be open as a warming center from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. on...

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