*Effective October 19, 2026, the ECDSS Emergency Services unit has re-located to 460 Main St., 2nd floor.
The unit had previously been located on the fourth floor of Rath Building, 158 Pearl St., Buffalo. Application drop boxes remain available on the first floor of 95 Frankin St. as well as the first floor of 460 Main St. (new location).
The Department of Social Services offers temporary help for needy men, women and children. If you are unable to work, can't find a job or your job does not pay enough to meet your basic living expenses you may be eligible to receive help. Erie County has a Work First policy that focuses on the temporary nature of cash assistance and an individual's responsibility to achieve self-sufficiency.
Review the information included in the links above to learn more about the different types of assistance available.
Temporary Assistance