The United Way/2-1-1 ALICE Program was partially reactivated in November 2025 in response to the pause on the New York Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Thanks to the generosity of a $20,000 grant made by the Community Foundation’s Lane Family Fund in support of Tompkins County and other UWTC donors, households facing utility shut-offs or a lack of fuel for heating their homes can contact 2-1-1 at 1-877-211-8667 for information on what supports and services are available in Tompkins County through this and other programs.
ARE YOU, OR IS SOMEONE YOU KNOW, FACING FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES?
Residents and those who work in Tompkins County may be eligible for a mini-grant of up to $500 per qualified household to address basic-need expenses.
The United Way/2-1-1 ALICE, in collaboration with the Human Services Coalition, supports households at or below United Way’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) thresholds. ALICE thresholds include more moderate-income households than many other programs that provide financial assistance. To learn more about ALICE, please visit unitedforalice.org.
A grant of up to $500 could help your household pay for: car insurance and repairs, child care expenses, essential appliances, health insurance, phone and utility bills, rent, or other expenses agreed upon by United Way.