No One Left Behind - Rochester Chapter
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No One Left Behind – Rochester
Chapter
http://www.nooneleft.org/
NOLB Volunteer Information
This guide was assembled by Ellen Smith, Cindy Malone,
Cheryl Arena, Theresa Eckert, Irwin Solomon, Tim Pryor
and Birgit Coffey to supplement the national NOLB manual.
About NOLB
A 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to the resettlement of military interpreters and support
personnel who supported the U.S. missions in Afghanistan and Iraq, and because of their faithful and
honorable service were targeted by the Taliban and ISIL. The Rochester NOLB Chapter works in partnership
with Catholic Family Center in resettling these families. NOLB is the only charitable organization in the U.S.
chartered with this mission. Federal Tax ID # 47-1251659.
Core Mission of the NOLB Organization
To help resettle those refugees arriving under the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program through:
● Rental assistance (first month and security deposit) (NOLB Chapter must fund-raise);
● Finding co-signers for apartments (NOLB chapter head responsibility);
● Offering emergency food assistance/first grocery shopping (NOLB Chapter must fund
raise);
● Assistance with mail when needed; understanding how to pay bills using checks or debit
card with help from help from NOLB Caring Circle members.
● Introduction to public library system, Post Office; Bank/Credit Union, Using an ATM with
help from NOLB Caring Circle members.
● Teaching to use public transportation, the RTS schedules, and how Google Maps works
with bus routes with help from NOLB Caring Circle members;
● Job search assistance (with help from NOLB Employment Committee);
● Rides for appointments when public transportation is not feasible (from NOLB general
volunteer list);
● Introductions to Rochester through visits to parks, museums, points of interest (Caring
Circle);
● Car grants (not always available - NOLB Chapter head must fund-raise).
Please remember that what we do for one, we must do for all.
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Help families develop independence, not dependence.
Understand the difference between needs and wants.
NOLB is chartered to help newly-arriving SIVs. We do not
support secondary resettlement.
Register as a NOLB Volunteer
All volunteers must fill out the volunteer form with the national organization.
https://docs.google.com/a/nooneleft.org/forms/d/1DnO4nVP9eKv-
PNEjKoa9aAVaf56pcmUjBi3oqdxcS1U/viewform?edit_requested=true
All volunteers will need to sign a confidentiality agreement and a volunteer agreement.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1LeksLcSkp8aEZvai1lRTREcDA/view?ths=true
See our local chapter on Youtube at this link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MzCb5sJTkZ4&t=201s
Rochester Chapter Volunteer Contact Info
Contact Information
NOLB - Rochester Chapter President, head of caring circles, housing, cars and car grants,
fund raising: Ellen Smith ellen@nooneleft.org
Committees:
Volunteer: Tim Pryor donationsnolbroc@gmail.com (Furniture donations)
Volunteer: Irwin Solomon irsolnolb@gmail.com (Maintains volunteer directory, sends e-mails to
volunteers, Diaper Deliveries)
Volunteer: Kim Schmidt kimschmidtphd@gmail.com (bikes)
Volunteer: Cindy Malone louwho2@hotmail.com (monthly food baskets - Asbury connection)
Volunteer: Birgit Coffey bmcldc@rit.edu (Car driving lessons)
(*Andy Dutcher will assist if SIV failed their first driving test).
Volunteer: Dulcy Lecour dmlecour@frontiernet.net (Welcome Baskets)
Volunteer: Dennis Moss dennismoss@gmail.com (Jobs / employment)
Volunteer: Theresa Eckert riedmaneckert@gmail.com (Clothing referrals)
Volunteer: Cheryl Arena carena13@hotmail.com (Caring Circle Organizer)
Volunteer: Theresa Eckert riedmaneckert@gmail.com (Caring Circle Coordinator)
Volunteer: Jacqui Lipschitz jacwayne@rochester.rr.com (Emergency Ride Coordinator)
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Volunteers needed: to help coordinate small fundraising dinners, larger events (Ellen@NoOneLeft.org
)
Table of Contents
Click on the heading to go directly to the section (mobile device only)
No One Left Behind – Rochester Chapter
NOLB Volunteer Information
About NOLB
Core Mission of the NOLB Organization
Register as a NOLB Volunteer
Rochester Chapter Volunteer Contact Info
Table of Contents
Volunteer Positions
Summary of Things to Do Before Arrival
Summary of the First Days in Rochester
What to Expect when working with SIVs!
Past Injuries in Afghanistan or Iraq
PTSD Help
Providing a Circle of Support/Caring for New Families
Helping SIVs get Cell Phones and/or Cell Coverage
Providing Computers to SIVs
Helping SIVs open Bank or Credit Union Accounts
Collecting Donations of Clothing
Providing Clothing to SIVs
Collecting Donations of Household Items, Furniture, Toys, Electronics etc.
Request Tax Deductible Receipt
Providing Welcome Baskets to SIVs
NOLB Home Furnishing Requirements
Monetary Donations & How Funds Are Used
Social Security Information
Understanding Benefits and Financial Processes
SNAP Benefits
WIC (Women, Infants and Children)
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Page 4 Department of Social Services (DSS) Temporary Assistance Benefits (TA) Renewal of DHS/DSS Paperwork Federal Guidelines on Benefits Catholic Family Center (CFC) REQUIREMENTS Medicaid Information Employment for SIVs Starbucks Employment Housing Information Finding Affordable Housing Healthcare Information Medical Appointment - Rides Coordinating Food, Diaper and Pad Deliveries Food Donations and Distribution Diaper Supply Donations and Distribution Education - School Enrollment Adult Education (OACES, ESL, Certifications) Info on Registering at OACES ESL Tutors at the Pines of Perinton ESL Tutors near Ellison Park Apt. Transportation/ Bus Driver Ed and Licensing Car Grants and Car Ownership Fundraising for Car Grants NOLB Accepts Donations of Used Vehicles Car Repairs Bicycles Recreation Resources for Families Markets of Interest Public Relations / Arrivals NOLB Fundraising and Grant Writing NOLB Past Community Events End-of-Year Letter from Ellen Smith, December 2016 Page 4
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Volunteer Positions
As of 3/2017 Ellen Smith coordinates all of the following NOLB tasks with the help of volunteers. We
are currently seeking volunteers interested in coordinating the following tasks. Contact Irwin Solomon
irsolnolb@gmail.com to indicate which task you are interested in coordinating.
1. Housing Coordinator (Ellen Smith; Ellen@NoOneLeft.org): Work with volunteers to find
affordable, safe and clean housing. Seek out co-signers for apartments. Ellen will go over budgets to
make sure rent can be met for one year. For more information, read: Housing Information
2. Donations Coordinator (Tim Pryor; WTPryor@gmail.com): Work with a team of volunteers to
receive, organize, transport household items. For more information, read: Collecting Donations of
Household Items, Furniture, Toys, Electronics etc… and Collecting Donations of Clothing
A. Additional donations (Hope House)
B. Clothing donations may be brought to the following locations:
Asbury Storehouse (Rochester - Charlene Lajewski & Wendy Cohen)
Hope House (Webster - Dave Kinard & Gene)
Saints Place (Saints Place, 8 Wickford Way, Fairport) **Please note that the
clothing donations are in FAIRPORT, not Pittsford.
3. Social Security Coordinator (TBD): We are looking for a team of 4-5 volunteers who will
become an expert in properly filling out SS paperwork and getting SIVs to appointment approximately
3 days after arriving. Volunteers for this position will need to be able to drive SIVs / families to the
Social Security office, and fill out paperwork. Note: City SS office does NOT require an appointment,
Greece SS office does.
4. Phone Coordinator (TBD): Research the best cell phone plans for SIVs. Phones, sim cards,
activation and must be paid for from welcome money. Look into securing a grant for phones. For
more information, read: Helping SIVs get Cell Phones and/or Cell Coverage
5. SNAP and DSS/DHS Benefits Coordinator (TBD): Works with a team of volunteers who are
available to help SIVs navigate the Monroe County SNAP and Temporary Assistance (TA) benefits
process. INITIAL benefits are taken care of by Catholic Family Center, but families may need help for
recertifications. For more information, read: SNAP Benefits
6. R-Community Bike Coordinator (Kim Schimdt; kimschmidtphd@gmail.com): Works with
volunteers to arrange a free bicycle per family. For more information, read: Bicycles
7. Clothing Coordinator (Theresa Eckert; riedmaneckert@gmail.com): Work with a team of
volunteers to make appointments and arrange rides to Asbury Storehouse, Saint’s Place or Hope
House to get clothing. For more information, read: Providing Clothing to SIVs
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Page 6 8. Money and Banking Coordinator (TBD): Brings every SIV and spouse to bank after receiving “welcome money” to set up bank account. Begin developing credit. For more information, read: Helping SIVs open Bank Account (currently done by Caring Circle). 9. Food Delivery Coordinator (TBD): Cindy Malone (louwho2@hotmail.com) coordinates with Asbury Methodist Church for monthly donations. For more information, read: Food Donations and Distribution 10. DMV Coordinator (TBD): Work with a team of volunteers to assist SIVs in getting a learner’s permit, paying for a non driving ID for SIVs wife, getting signed up for 5-hour course (free when enrolled in OACES) and start preparing to take the road test. For more information, read: Driver Ed and Licensing 11. Employment Search Coordinator (Dennis Moss; dennismoss@gmail.com): Work with a team of volunteers to write and review resumés and begin job search. Volunteers may end up specializing in job search fields. For example, one volunteer may have numerous restaurant connections. Another may have connections in auto repair, etc. For more information, read: Employment for SIVs 12. Car Grant Coordinator (Ellen Smith; Ellen@NoOneLeft.org): Research Craigslist and other auto listings for inexpensive vehicles that can be purchased for SIVs that qualify for the car grant*. Keep a list of preferred car repair shops friendly to NOLB. For more information, read: Car Grants 13. English Language and Adult Ed Coordinator (TBD): Work with a team of volunteers to assure that SIVs and wives attend OACES and are maximizing opportunities to improve English language skills and receive other training. For more information, read: Adult Education (ESL, Certifications) 14. Caring Circles Coordinator (Theresa Eckert; riedmaneckert@gmail.com): Work with a team of volunteers on a shared goal of answering questions and assisting SIVs in their first months in the US. For more information, read: Providing a Circle of Support/Caring for New Families 15. Public School Education Liaison Coordinator (TBD): Work with the public school contacts to help make good decisions for children. Assist families in enrolling in school when family has not arrived through the International Office of Migration. For more information, read: Education - School Enrollment 16. Diaper Delivery Coordinator (Irwin Solomon; irsolnolb@gmail.com): Work with volunteers to arrange monthly delivery of diapers. For more information, read: Diaper Supply Donations and Distribution Summary of Things to Do Before Arrival NOLB Rochester chapter head will, whenever possible, get flight information on each family. In the days leading up to the arrival the chapter head signs up for flight alerts for the flight so that we will know if the flight is delayed or canceled. This can occur through Flight Aware Page 6
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(https://flightaware.com/ ) or through the website of whichever airline the SIV is flying. Local
Rochester flight information is available here: http://www2.monroecounty.gov/airportflights
We have the SIV communicate via Viber, WhatsApp, Signal, or another messenger service that uses data/Wifi
so that upon arrival they can send you messages if they connect to the airport Wifi. We try to track each flight
change so we know they have not been detained.
For safety and security reasons, do not post names and flight information on Facebook.
Things to do before arrival:
1. Find host housing.
2. Find apartments or houses for families and individuals within CFC financial guidelines (2 - 6 weeks).
3. Collect donations for a complete home furnishing.
4. Work with Hope House, friends, volunteers for furnishings.
5. Help raise money for first month’s rent, security, food
6. Make sure we have car seats for children under the age of 8 to transport from airport to host home or
apartment.
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Summary of the First Days in Rochester
1. Meet and greet at the airport.
2. Bring to Social Security office within first week of arrival. Ideally, family should go on 3rd
business day (not before). A receipt of the Social Security paperwork for each individual
must be delivered to Catholic Family Center. You will be told if the SS process was started in
their home country (they don’t know). If it was started, you still need a receipt for CFC. They
should have their SS forms in their RED folder from CFC. Best to go first thing in the morning
when they open at 9:00 (I was told they actually open before 9:00). They are close at noon
on Wednesday afternoons. Do Not go at noon and Do Not go the first of the month. If there
are no forms in the RED FOLDER, they will provide forms once you are called to the window.
You can ask for an interpreter if needed.
3. Bring to Saints Place, Asbury Store House or Hope House for clothing (ideally within the first 7-
14 days). Appointments must be made and a referral from N.O.L.B. with case number must be
provided. Contact NOLB Volunteer Theresa Eckert; riedmaneckert@gmail.com to have her set
up an appointment and submit the referral letter. Asbury Store and Hope House also require
appointments.
Asbury Store House: 1050 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
Saints Place: 8 Wickford Way, Fairport, NY 14450
Hope House: 1450 Ridge Rd, Webster, NY 14580
This will be a one time visit unless we deem another is necessary due to circumstances.
For more information, see: Providing Clothing to SIVs.
4. Help with food before SNAP is available (through donations of gift cards, or NOLB shopping).
For more information, see: Understanding Benefits and Financial Processes
5. Get the SIV’s phone a SIM card and service (must be paid out of Welcome Money at this
time). For more information, see Helping SIVs get Cell Phones and/or Cell Coverage. Owner
TBD?
7. Arrange rides to important appointments.
8. Have family fill out AR-11 form with address as soon as they move in apartment (must be
completed within 10 days of permanent address). This form must be filled out for every
member of the family. We ask that CARING CIRCLE VOLUNTEERS HELP FAMILIES WITH
THIS FORM. https://www.uscis.gov/ar-11
AR-11 Forms MUST BE MAILED TO:
U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security,
Citizenship and Immigration Services
Atten: Change of Address
1344 Pleasants Dr.
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Harrisonburg, VA 22801
9. Fill out NOLB Intake Form within 24 hours of arrival (Ellen will fill out this form):
https://docs.google.com/a/nooneleft.org/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7jwxuvOukt6Zf9491-
eYActfiA5Bv-v8Kq9zrbah6C0H47w/viewform?c=0&w=1
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What to Expect when working with SIVs!
What you may expect when dealing with the Afghan and Iraqi Culture....certainly, every family is
different however, these seem to be trends we’ve encountered:
● Tea! Our families always have time for tea and you will be invited to join them.
● Time! Plan for extra time when getting to appointments -- especially with families, and stress
for them to be ready at a specific time.
● Take off your shoes when you enter their home/apartment.
● Many families will only eat halal meat. No pork. No gelatin either: including things like fruit roll
up, jelly beans, etc.
● Assume No Photos - or, at a minimum ask. You may not post a photo without permission.
● With some families, a woman may not shake a man's hand.
● Almost every SIV will ask for help in bringing over a brother, sister, mother, etc. They may
meet with Catholic Family Center to understand the process. Do not offer advice on the very
complicated, and often changing immigration process.
● The financial stresses are enormous for new families. Each person is in debt for
approximately $1,330 in airfare, which must be paid back to the government within 5 years.
This said, we must figure out ways for the families to become financially independent, and able
to payback these loans. We go over strict budgets for survival. Many SIVs held the equivalent
of “middle management” positions. It is unlikely they will have similar positions in the U.S.
What to Watch for with you and families
Re-traumatization
Re-traumatization or PTSD are issues that all volunteers need to be aware of when working with
families and individuals. When working with traumatized populations, it is not advisable for volunteers
who do not have appropriate qualifications in counseling, psychology, or social work to ask SIV
families to talk about their trauma in depth. By asking certain questions, a well-meaning volunteer
may cause a person to bring their trauma back to the surface without having the capability to assist in
processing that trauma. PTSD is a recurring issue, because our SIV families do not escape from the
news, and have family members back in Afghanistan or Iraq whom they worry about. We can refer
SIVs and their families to the Refugee Health Center (222 Alexander St), where they can get help
from people and doctors with who have experience in dealing with these issues among refugees. If a
family has asked for assistance, let them know that there is help available by asking their doctor at
the Health Center. If there are concerns, please contact Ellen@NoOneLeft.org.
Secondary Trauma
Secondary trauma is a term used to describe the stress and trauma experienced by persons helping
populations that have experienced trauma. Volunteers and employees who do not practice good self-
care can experience physical symptoms of secondary trauma and burn out. It is important to practice
good boundaries, get enough sleep, and to find ways to “destress.” Secondary trauma is something
that volunteers participating with clients at NOLB may experience.
Page 10Page 11 Secondary trauma is a real concern, with physical symptoms such as trouble sleeping, heartburn, frequent illness, etc. For an in depth list of warning signs, this guide goes into great detail. Overall, every volunteer should watch for any signs that they are taking personal accountability for our clients’ safety, or signs that they are investing too much time and mental energy. Please contact Ellen if you need time away from this work. Past Injuries in Afghanistan or Iraq If an SIV is asking about help getting supported/compensated for an injury while employed by a contract in Afghanistan or Iraq by a local national, please direct them to the following lawyer for assistance: Jon B. Robinson Strongpoint Law Firm, LLC 1070-B West Causeway Approach Mandeville, LA 70471 Phone: (985) 246-3194 Fax: (985) 246-3193 Website: http://strongpointlaw.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StrongpointLawFirm Twitter: @MrJonRobinson PTSD Help If an SIV is seeking help for PTSD treatment,missing home, having trouble forgetting about the traumas of war, there is an opportunity to help them through an equine therapy program run by Dr. Joseph Lancia at Windhorse Farm in Hilton. We completely understand how hard it is -- especially for those with families still in Afghanistan and Iraq -- to focus on their new life here when they are always worried about your families and traumatized by war. If interested in meeting with Dr. Lancia, please contact our veteran connection: nicholasstefanovic23@gmail.com . Contact information will be confidential, and you will be referred to Windhorse Farm. The program is highly recommended by local veterans, and Dr. Lancia is ready to help with each family’s new journey and the difficulties they may be experiencing. Providing a Circle of Support/Caring for New Families Theresa Eckhart (riedmaneckert@gmail.com) is always looking for groups of friends who are willing to be a caring circle of support for a family. We encourage friends to create caring circles, since friends know each other, and probably already have contact information. Things to keep in mind with families: Page 11
Page 12 The first week is the hardest and the first year is the hardest! With this in mind, we have established a policy of each family having 2-4 dedicated volunteers to help them within their first 4-6 months. The goal is independence and teaching each family to use the resources available in the Rochester Community. NOLB Rochester is a partnership between former SIVs who have been here and can help based on their experience. It is a partnership with members of the Rochester community who are able to help because of their knowledge. We use these partnerships to help new SIVs secure their own needs through volunteerism, and help strengthen their family through new connections. We always encourage former SIVs to assist with new families, although we certainly do not require this, since it takes a solid two years to adapt into the community (studies show this, and it’s our experience). A circle of support is to be 2 - 4 people per family who will work with each new SIV or SIV family to assist with questions, mail, and be the point of contact for the organization. A Circle of Support is encouraged to bring individuals or families to points of interest in and around Rochester, we have a free NOLB pass for Rochester Museum and Science Center (RMSC) and Strong Museum (Strong tickets must be requested in advance), Mendon Ponds Park, Letchworth State Park, Sodus Point. We do not encourage volunteers to spend money for these outings. A Circle of Support is not to offer any financial assistance/ cash to any family or individual. If food is needed because a SNAP card doesn’t work, please contact the NOLB Chapter Head (Ellen@NoOneLeft.org) who will make food arrangements. If rental payments cannot be met for some reason, then the NOLB Chapter Head will determine if an NOLB grant is needed. It is necessary for a family to stay within a very strict budget in order to survive their first year. Ellen goes over a family’s budget with each family. We will share the budget with the Caring Circle, but this information may not be shared outside of the caring circle. Ellen is authorized to make financial requests here: https://goo.gl/forms/erElePZnNZ5VNreq2 At no time is any volunteer to be left alone with SIV children without an SIV parent in attendance. An SIV parent must be with children at all times when volunteers are interacting with families. This is for everyone’s safety and benefit. If you would like to offer a trip to a museum or playground, for instance, you must take one of the SIV parents with you if you are also bringing the children. If the parents have an appointment together, then the children must go. Helping SIVs get Cell Phones and/or Cell Coverage Many SIVs bring unlocked phones into the US. Metro PCS can offer phone service and a new sim card and work off the T-Mobile network. For $30/month (+ tax), a person can get 1 GB download (then downloads go to a lower speed), and there is unlimited talk and text. (They will need to also purchase a SIM card). SIVs are responsible for their own phone accounts, and this is to be paid from their welcome money. We ask CFC to Page 12
Page 13 give them some cash upon arrival, so that they may purchase phones. We do not have any grants at this time to pay for phones for families who are not entering through IOM who do not have their initial welcome money. Donations of phones and one month of service are accepted for families in this situation. Metro PC locations: > 175 Winton Rd North, 14610***** 11/17-Call ahead to see Chris. He has helped NOLB before and will sell up. Very honest & helpful! 929-217-9206 > 696 North Winton Road, 14620 > 673 Monroe Ave, 14607 > 779 N Goodman St. 14612 > 970 South Clinton Ave. (near the RTS & CFC) Cricket service does work outside of the city. This plan is limited to 1GB downloads per month for $30, and 3GB is $40. All families will receive a free phone through DSS after 4-6 weeks. This phone is a simple text and talk phone with no internet capabilities, and the minutes each month are limited. If this number is used on a resume or in a job application, the SIV must make sure the phone is working and not out of minutes. Information on qualifying for an “Obama-Phone” https://www.obamaphone.com/ Deb Abell reports on successfully obtaining a phone for a family: They came here with one good phone that the dad uses and pays for, and one cracked phone that the mother uses for Wi-Fi only. Because of their low income they are eligible for a government-funded phone that the wife now uses. All low-income families are eligible for one free phone if they meet criteria. The website I used is www.safelinkwireless.com. The directions are very straightforward. I registered the phone in the father's name, since most of the eligibility information (like SNAP benefits, etc.) are usually in the father's name. You will need to be prepared with the last 4 digits of the father's SSN, as well as the family's address, father's DOB. You will need to answer a bunch of questions attesting to the family's low income. And you will be asked to submit proof of the income. For my family, I submitted a copy of their Medicaid card, and a copy of their SNAP card. I was also asked to submit a copy of the dad's social security card (last 4 numbers only--I blocked out the first 5 numbers--VERY IMPORTANT), and a copy of his passport in order to verify his identity. A letter that delineates what the family receives in benefits each month would work, too, but we didn't have this. You can submit this information online, or by faxing. I did a combination of the two. Once the application has been submitted, it is assigned a reference number, and you can call and check on the application's status as needed. I did call a couple of times, just to make sure things were progressing, and they were. I would say the process took about 6 weeks from start to finish. The phone is a basic smartphone, with a set number of minutes and GBs of data each month. Buying more minutes and data as needed is possible, but I have not figured this part out. International phone calls, as far as I can tell, are not possible. I have not been able to get the phone linked to the family's Wi-Fi, but I haven't spent a lot of time doing this as the mom uses her old, cracked phone for Wi-FI communication with her family in Afghanistan. I hope this helps. I would definitely recommend getting this started as soon as the next family arrives. In our case, this was delayed for a couple of months because it was rumored that CFC would help out with this, but that is not the case. Page 13
Page 14 Providing Computers to SIVs Gordon Metz (clgc@earthlink.net ) is the NOLB volunteer who rebuilds computers and donates one laptop per SIV family when available, and if the family does not have a PC or laptop. Each incoming family or single SIV will receive one (1) computer (if available). If available, tablets may be given to appropriate age children.In all instances, repairs to the computers, laptops or tablets shall be the responsibility of the SIV. The policy is one computer per family when we have computers. If the family or SIV arrives with a computer, the NOLB-Rochester Chapter policy is that we do not offer a second computer. However, if the SIV is in an OACES vocational program, where a computer is needed, then we will try to find a second computer. We encourage the use of the public library. However, because Ellison Park has free wi-fi, having a computer is obviously a plus. If children break the computer, it is not the responsibility of NOLB to replace it, and “welcome money” will need to be used if they want a replacement. We have had several instances of children breaking computers, and we cannot afford to replace these. Future consideration: We may want to educate SIVs on *Identity theft (there were reports of calls requesting Social Security Numbers) *Don’t click on any links in emails Helping SIVs open Bank or Credit Union Accounts Bank accounts or Credit Union accounts need to be opened once an SIV family or individual receives a Social Security number and Welcome money. SIVs must have a Social Security card to open an account. This is why it’s important to get to the Social Security Office by day 3-5. SIVs also need a piece of mail with their name and address on it OR their land-lord statement. Because there are no monthly fees we recommend credit unions such as Genesee Co-op Credit Union (Micro loans in a pinch), ESL Federal Credit Union, Summit or Family First Credit Union. Due to the large number of ESL branches in the Rochester area, we suggest opening the account at the closest ESL branch. Developing Credit In the U.S., having a credit score is necessary for getting an apartment or loan. Making rental payments on time, paying the RG&E bills on time, and paying the IOM airfare loan on time will help a family develop a credit score over their first year. Where families have a cosigner for an apartment, they will need to develop a credit score so that they may take over their lease after the first year. The goal for establishing credit is so SIVs can eventually purchase a car or even a home. For future planning for homeownership, ESL Credit Union’s First Home Club provides eligible participants a Page 14
Page 15 grant of up to $7,500 through a match of $4 for every $1 that an SIV family can save in a special account. Take a look at the First Home Club program link for more information about eligibility and getting started. A family must be able to save $100 per month for 18 months, or $120/month for one year after they sign up for the program. The First Home Club will have them go through mandatory credit counseling, and the nuances of home ownership. Additionally many local governments including the City of Rochester and Monroe County offer down payment and closing cost grants for eligible first-time homebuyers. Free Tax Returns SIVs can have free tax returns completed. C.A.S.H. –Lake Ave, Henrietta (Kohls)--see Theresa for more info. https://www.esl.org/community/community-stories/cash-free-tax-prep Collecting Donations of Clothing NOTE: NOLB-Rochester DOES NOT ACCEPT CLOTHING DONATIONS. WE PARTNER WITH THESE ORGANIZATIONS SO WE DO NOT NEED TO COLLECT, SORT OR STORE CLOTHING. Clothing Donations to: Asbury Store House http://www.asburyfirst.org/serve/storehouse 1050 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607 Clothing Donations to: Saints Place http://www.saintsplace.org/donate.html Donations accepted at 2 locations: 8 Wickford Way, Fairport or 46 South Main Street, Pittsford, New York - next to St. Louis church Clothing Donations to: Hope House: 1450 Ridge Rd, Webster, NY 14580 Phone:(585) 265-6694 Providing Clothing to SIVs Typically, an SIV is permitted only one piece of luggage per person, and it must weigh 50 lbs. or less. NOLB has an arrangement with three organizations (see below) to obtain free clothing, however appointments are needed. Please allow NOLB volunteer Theresa Eckert (riedmaneckert@gmail.com) to make the appointments so there are not overlapping or multiple appointments made for one family. After the appointments are made, we can then use the Caring Circle for rides, or Irwin can place a note out on email if rides are needed. Once Theresa schedules the appointment, SIVs can be taken to: Page 15
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Saints Place http://www.saintsplace.org/donate.html
8 Wickford Way, Fairport. **only 1 visit allowed**
Please note:When going to Saint's Place for clothes, take into account the colors of the school uniform (example:
Rochester International Academy; khaki pants, green or brown shirt)
Hope House: 1450 Ridge Rd, Webster, NY 14580 Phone:(585) 265-6694
Asbury Store House http://www.asburyfirst.org/serve/storehouse
1050 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607 following are the rules for Asbury:
All clients must have an appointment to be served. To make an appointment, please call 585-473-0950.
The normal hours we are available for calls to schedule appointments are:
Monday: 9:30 a.m. - noon and 1 - 3 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 9:30 - noon and 12:30 - 3.
Friday: CLOSED
Saturday: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. (closed holiday weekends)
If the phone is busy, it means one of our volunteer receptionists is on a call. We are very busy, so please
keep trying! We do not make appointments via email.
Below is our referral process:
Agencies can make an appointment for each client every six months. At the time of the call, we would like
you to provide:
● Client name and phone number
● Number of adults and children to be served
● Type of items the person is most in need of (clothing, household goods, or linens)
● Your name and agency name, address, and phone number
We ask that you provide the client with a referral letter on your letterhead that includes the information
listed above, along with the date and time of the appointment.
Please communicate our expectations to the client:
● Bring the letter of referral: ****contact Theresa Eckert for the letter
● Bring bags to transport clothing
● Arrive ready to shop: appointments for clients who act inappropriately or arrive under the
influence of drugs or alcohol will be rescheduled
We are located in the lower level of 1050 East Avenue, at the rear (north side) of the building. Below is a
link to the campus map.
http://www.asburyfirst.org/files/campus-map.pdf
Please note we do not stock furniture, food, or toiletries for our clients.
If you have any questions about our policies or procedures, please let me know.
Betsy Christiansen
Asbury First Storehouse
Collecting Donations of Household Items, Furniture,
Toys, Electronics etc.
Goal: To furnish a home for a family who arrives with nothing.
Page 16Page 17 We are always interested in donations of computers, unlocked cell phones and the items on these lists: NOLB Home Furnishing Requirements and Providing Welcome Baskets to SIVs. Furniture and household items are stored at Ellen’s farm (NOLB-Rochester headquarters) in Mendon (888 Pittsford Mendon Center Rd., Pittsford, NY 14534). Donations of household Items may be brought to Ellen’s farm in Mendon. For directions or to arrange for a necessary pickup contact Tim Pryor at donationsnolbroc@gmail.com. Transportation for donations We prefer that donations be brought to the farm. If needed,Tim Pryor will help arrange transportation of donations. Contact Tim at donationsnolbroc@gmail.com. Ellen uses her personal truck for hauling donations. Please keep this in mind that NOLB does not have it’s own vehicle. We also cannot arrange for pick-up of donations on a short notice. Also realize that most volunteers with NOLB work and we need to arrange pick-ups around multiple schedules, and things may happen -- such as a volunteer who was making the pick-up maybe ill or have an emergency on the day of pickup. People who have offered to help transport goods on move-in day: Sam Rinaldo, Cathy & Steve Blackwell, Doug & Chris Lee, Dan Quirk. Donation Guidelines in General We don’t accept all donations. We will accept basic kitchen needs, basic furniture, lamps, mirrors, couches, coffee tables, small book shelves (not large wall units).. Easy chairs and recliners generally are not used by the families, and in fact, the families have “donated” them back to NOLB, so we actually have an overabundance of easy chairs. Please see our furnishings guide. We have been asked on many occasions to empty apartments or houses. If a donor wishes an apartment or house to be cleaned out in its entirety, the donor may make arrangements with a couple of SIVs and pay them, but NOLB will not clean out houses, apartments, or left overs from yard sales. We reserve the right to reject donations because we don’t need them at the time, or they are not in acceptable condition. For instance, most of our families do not consume alcohol, and therefore, we can’t use wine glasses or shot glasses. When donating used pots and pans, please make sure they are clean and grease-free. Early summer is the busiest time, and many not-for-profits must reject donations due to the volume of donations. We are in the same position with limited storage space. We will not accept certain pieces of furniture including: king-sized beds, recliners, sleeper- sofas/sleeper couches; large dining room hutches, large T.V. wall units. They will not fit into the small apartments, and impossible to get up two or three flights of narrow stairwells. Page 17
Page 18 We will not accept the “old style” T.V.s, and it cost us $25 per TV to dispose of these. Flat screen T.V.s that can be hooked up with a computer are accepted, and we have a list of families waiting for these newer T.V.s Toys and Books Any toy and book donations should be brought to Saints Place 46 South Main Street, Pittsford, NY 14534 http://www.saintsplace.org/donate.html. BABY Items We have a potential storage space available for baby items (cribs, car seats, infant swings etc). To Be Announced. Page 18
Page 19 Request Tax Deductible Receipt Need a tax deductible donation receipt? Contact Ellen (Ellen@NoOneLeft.org) and she will send one on NOLB letterhead. Tracking in-kind donations is an important part of NOLB, even if you don’t want a receipt! The amount of donations we take in and track to an SIV family helps us get grants for future operations. Providing Welcome Baskets to SIVs Dulcy Lecour (dmlecour@frontiernet.net) has been collecting items to create “Welcome Baskets.” The following is the “Welcome Basket” list. Please contact Dulcy if you would like to donate these items or to ask what is needed at any given time: Laundry detergent Bar soap (children’s soap when needed) Razors Shaving cream Lotions (baby lotion when needed) Shampoos and conditioners (children’s shampoo when needed) Mop Bucket Broom Kitchen trash basket Bathroom trash basket Trash bags 2 laundry baskets Dish soap Dish drain & dish pan 6 pack of sponges Counter cleaner kitchen Counter cleaner bathroom Toilet bowl cleaner Toilet bowl brush Hangers 1 tube of toothpaste per person (children’s when needed) 2 two toothbrushes per person Dental floss or dental picks Mouthwash Nail clippers Kleenex/tissues Feminine hygeine pads Shower curtain with rings Toilet paper - large pack Page 19
Page 20 Paper towels NOLB Home Furnishing Requirements (please stick to this list when furnishing an apartment. Extra donations offered will be used for the next family). Once an apartment is furnished, we will not offer additional donations. This is what is needed to get a family started in their first year. Keep in mind that this system allows a family to keep $150 PER PERSON in their Welcome Money (welcome money is $925 per person). If there is something they want (such as an electric teakettle versus a stove kettle, or an iron), they may purchase one with their welcome money. Please do not make purchases on behalf of families. “What we do for one, we do for all.” For instance, if a volunteer purchases a “gift” of a T.V. for one family, or a “gift” of a new microwave (as examples) then we will get requests from ALL families for the same item, and there has been some resentment between families when this occurs. We have worked with older SIV families to establish what is NEEDED for their first year in Rochester. If the item is something they “need,” please check with Ellen@NoOneLeft.org before you purchase it because we may have the item at the farm. If the item is something they “want,” please realize that as an organization, we may need financial donations for needed items, such as bags of rice, Halal meat, or other basic essentials for a family to survive. We must balance needs and wants. Basic Furnishing Requirements: BEDROOM Queen Bed for married couple (*we do not accept king-sized beds. They cannot fit up the stairwells) Full/twin for teen or single person Twin for child Two sets of sheets & pillowcases per person 1 new pillow per person 2 blankets per person (summer/winter) Bedside tables, if they fit in the room One dresser per bedroom One lamp per bedroom DINING Matching dining room set, when available LIVING ROOM A full living room (Example: full sized couch, love seat or full sized couch and chairs, coffee table, side tables to compliment furniture pieces. Bookcases when available. Two lamps for living room KITCHEN Two full place setting of flatware per person Page 20
Page 21 Two glasses per person plus additional Full place-setting set of dishes per person (large and small plate, bowl) with two to four extra place settings for guests Two sizes of sauce pans Two sizes of frying pans Large (8-10 quart) cooking pot Pressure cooker (*must be purchased by a donor) Two - four baking dishes and baking pans of multiple sizes Set or several mixing bowls and serving bowls Service dishes (for fruit and nuts) Large serving platters Measuring cups, spoons Can opener Microwave Toaster, when available Teapot (stove or electric) Pot holders and dish towels BATH Two complete towel sets per person (large towel, hand towel, wash cloth) Shower curtain, rings and rod (when necessary) CLEANING Dish soap Counter cleaner Sponges Paper towels (at least 4 rolls) Large bottle laundry detergent, or 2 smaller bottles Two waste baskets (kitchen and bath) Trash bags Toilet paper (large pack) Two laundry baskets Vacuum cleaner Mop PERSONAL CARE ITEMS Body soap (include children soaps when needed) ***Bar soap is preferred by families*** Two toothbrushes per person One tube toothpaste per person Dental floss or picks Children’s shampoo, if needed Hand lotion Razors Deodorant MISCELLANEOUS Alarm clock (mandated by CFC) Page 21
Page 22 Pens, pencils, paper (mandated by CFC) Tool kit including hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, scissors Television, when available Computer, when available Iron and Ironing board, when available Toys and books for children, when available, but they can get toys from Saints Place. Letter for R Community Bikes (provided by Cheryl) *Car grant (* based on financial need - SIV must fill out an application form and commit 50 volunteer hours - see below for additional information) Monetary Donations & How Funds Are Used Monetary donations are used to pay for first month’s rent, a security deposit, and a food shopping trip for each individual or family. Additional fundraising is also sought for car grants, so that our SIVs can expand their job opportunities. We permit individual fundraisers through “Pennies From Heaven” campaigns, but any fund-raiser must be cleared through Ellen@NoOneLeft.org. Car grants are given in a particular order, or may not be given at all if an SIV has the financial resources to purchase his or her own vehicle. (see car grant section for details). We also assist with emergency grants -- such as food shopping if SNAP card is not working, or an emergency rent grant. Monetary donations are not to be given directly to SIVs. Donate directly through NOLB: https://web.charityengine.net/default.aspx?tsid=5274 Checks can be made out to No One Left Behind and mailed to: NOLB, P.O. Box 3641, Merrifield, VA 22116 Checks can also be made out to No One Left Behind and mailed to 888 Pittsford Mendon Center Rd., Pittsford, NY 14534 (We will acknowledge, and send to headquarters in Merrifield, VA). We can also accept credit card donations. Organizations and individuals may also do fundraisers on behalf of No One Left Behind, but we ask that you inform NOLB of the fund-raiser. For instance, for two years, the Hamilton LaCrosse team has set up a Go Fund Me page on behalf of the Rochester Chapter with fund directly deposited to NOLB. We do NOT PERMIT fund-raising for an individual or family. Fund-raising for an individual or family can jeopardize their benefits, and we have encountered this problem with another chapter and their DSS agency, who cut off rent assistance, and SNAP where they received the benefits from a Go Page 22
Page 23 Fund Me campaign. While we do raise money for car grants, the grants are limited, based on financial need, and a gift of a modest vehicle is permitted under DSS guidelines. We accept Price Rite, Wegmans, Tops,Target and Walmart gift cards. These will be signed over to families on an “as need” basis. For instance, we will give a new family of four $200 in Price Rite gift cards for their first shopping trip. We ask that these gift cards are turned over to NOLB for logging and distribution. Social Security Information ** WE ARE LOOKING FOR A TEAM OF 3-4 INDIVIDUALS WHO WILL BRING A FAMILY TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE. THIS WOULD BE THE TEAM’S ONLY VOLUNTEER DUTY. IT REQUIRES ONE MORNING FOR EACH NEW FAMILY. Two cars might be needed if the family is large. Paperwork for Social Security is completed by the CFC caseworker in most instances. However, NOLB has agreed to take families to the SS office in downtown Rochester within the first week of arrival. Ideally, the family should go on the 3rd business day (not before) after arrival. A receipt of the Social Security paperwork for each individual must be delivered to Catholic Family Center (CFC), 87 N. Clinton Avenue, Rochester, NY 14604. You will be told if the SS process was started in their home country (they don’t know). If it was started, you still need a receipt for CFC. Please note: Everyone goes through a metal detector. Some of the women wear lots of jewelry they may want to leave at home that day. US Social Security Administration 100 Chestnut St # 1400, Rochester, NY 14604 Social Security Administration 4050 W Ridge Rd, Rochester, NY 14626 Note: City SS office does NOT require an appointment, Greece SS office does. Green Card Typically takes 6 months to receive. It is needed to leave the country but not for employment. Page 23
Page 24 Understanding Benefits and Financial Processes If a family arrives through the International Office of Migration (IOM), they will receive “Welcome money” of $925 per individual. If they do not come through IOM, they may be eligible for “welcome money,” but must apply for refugee assistance through Catholic Family Center within 10 days of arrival. These families will require a higher level of financial support because it takes longer to get a DSS appointment, and may not have the resources to cover food for a month, or their second month’s rent. These families will also need initial rides (not provided through CFC) because they did not come through IOM. It will take approximately 6 weeks for them to have access to “welcome money.” Catholic Family Center (CFC) Liaison Lisa Hoyt, Getachew Beshir (GG) Marlene Bassette, CEO and President Refugee Resettlement Case Manager Catholic Family Center 87 N. Clinton Ave. Rochester, NY 14604 Tel: 585.546.7220 x4732 Fax: 585.232.6486 Catholic Family Center will make an appointment with Monroe County Department of Human Services for the following food and temporary assistance (TA) program: SNAP Benefits For a SNAP card to work, it must be activated. To activate the card, call the number on the back of the card. When it asks for the last 4 digits of the Social Security #, put in 0000. When it asks for the zip code, put in 14604 (that is the CFC zip code). If this does not work, use 0000 and the client’s zip code. http://www2.monroecounty.gov/files/hs/DHS%20101%20April%202016.pdf Page 42 Page 24
Page 25 Snap Benefits--what are they and how do they work. What do SNAP benefits buy? SNAP benefits are only available to those SIVs whose income is below the column marked “Maximum Gross Monthly Income 130% of Poverty.” SNAP may only be used for food items. We encourage families/volunteers to help families get to the Rochester Public Market where $100 of SNAP benefits will purchase $140 in tokens that can be used with most vendors. For a single person, their SNAP benefit of $194 can purchase $280 of food at the Rochester Public Market, so this is an important resource for a family’s survival.. SNAP Benefits Document: http://www2.monroecounty.gov/files/hs/SNAP%20Rights%20and%20Responsibilities%20Rev- March%2015%202013.pdf WIC (Women, Infants and Children) SIVs with pregnant moms, and children under the age of 6 will qualify for the Women, Infants and Children program -- called “WIC.” This is a coupon program that will allow for additional purchases of milk, cheese, eggs, beans. WIC benefits can be applied for at the TB Clinic, and most families are registered for WIC at the clinic or through their doctor at the Refugee Health Care Center (222 Alexander St.). https://www.health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/wic/how_to_apply.htm Page 25
Page 26 Department of Social Services (DSS) Department of Social Services policy on limited English proficiency: http://www2.monroecounty.gov/files/Monroe%20County%20LEP%20policy%20final%20%207-8- 14.pdf Temporary Assistance Benefits (TA) http://www2.monroecounty.gov/files/hs/DHS%20101%20April%202016.pdf Page 43 The chart above shows Temporary Assistance available to individuals and families (numbers are misleading, and amounts available are typically less than shown). For instance, if heat is included in the apartment, you must discount the cost of electric and non-food items (this is where budgeting welcome money is important). So realistically, a family of 3 may have $732 for rent with heat included, but then they have no money for their electric bill, phone bill, and bus fare. They will get $2,775 in welcome money. They need to BUDGET that welcome money at $230/month for non-food items not paid for by SNAP and the DSS benefits. Page 26
Page 27 When NOLB helps to budget, “welcome money” is divided by 12 months (to help pay expenses not covered by SNAP). This includes all non-food items, electric & heat, bus passes, phone service. This amounts to $77 per month per person. 1 - $925 ($77/month) (no money available for car insurance or registration). 2 - $1,850 ($154/month) (no money available for car insurance or registration 3 - $2,775 ($231/month) 4 - $3,700 ($308/month) 5 - $4,625 ($385/month) 6 - $5,550 ($462/month) 7 - $6,475 ($539/month) 8 - $7,400 ($616/month) 9 - $8,325 ($693/month) NOLB tries to have families to set aside $1200 for car insurance and registration. Given the budget constraints, this is not always possible. Remaining money is spread out monthly for one year to help meet heat, electric, bus costs, items not covered by SNAP and DSS. ALSO NOTE: As families become self-sufficient, they will experience a cut in benefits. This means, if they earn $600/month in a part-time job, which must be reported to DSS within 10 days, they will experience a $600/month cut in benefits (does not include Medicaid). This is often a “shock” for many families. They must be prepared for the fact that as they earn money, they will lose rental and food assistance, AND they are expected to work, and they WILL lose their benefits. These benefits are only TEMPORARY. Renewal of DHS/DSS Paperwork DHS/DSS benefits MUST be renewed at 90 and 180 days. We have had several SIV families lose their benefits and get behind in rent because they did not understand the paperwork sent by Monroe County DHS. If you are in a Caring Circle, please encourage families to ask for assistance when mail arrives that they don’t understand. If those deemed employable don’t have jobs at the end of 180 days, they may be asked by DHS to work for 24 hours/week at a 501(c)(3) organization (not NOLB) to do chores such as sort and fold clothing. DHS benefits may be extended past 180 days if the SIV is in OACES http://oaces.net/ or one of the “Hart Street” programs on a FULL TIME basis. During this time (attending full time) they will also receive a free monthly bus pass. We encourage participation in OACES. In order to get rental assistance, the SIV needs a landlord statement by the 15th of the month for the next month. Page 27
Page 28 Federal Guidelines on Benefits Please note that we need to encourage employment as soon as possible. Eligible adults are limited to receiving benefits for a total of 60 months in their lifetime, including months of TA-funded assistance granted in other states. Once this limit is reached, that adult and all members of his or her household are ineligible to receive any more benefits IN ANY STATE. These are FEDERAL guidelines. The months need not be consecutive, but rather each individual month in which TANF- funded benefits are received is included in the lifetime count. Catholic Family Center (CFC) REQUIREMENTS Household Budget, how money must be spent. See image below. Food, clothing, rent and is spent on the SIV’s behalf. SIVs must follow what is presented at the CFC Orientation Meeting. Page 28
Page 29 Medicaid Information Research was done on 11/23/2017 as a volunteer wanted to know if the SIV Medicaid continues until its scheduled end date, even if the SIV gets a job and is offered insurance through the job. The rep at the DSS Medicaid group, said that, yes, the Medicaid will continue until the end date, even if he is offered insurance at the new job. After that date, of course, the SIV has to be insured by the work insurance. The DSS Medicaid group is at 585-753-6702. Page 29
Page 30
Employment for SIVs
Getting A Job: SIVs are expected to search for a job immediately. On each visa, there is an “I-551”
stamp that permits employment as soon as they arrive. Lack of English skills is not considered a
barrier to employment. If employment is not found, DSS will demand that an SIV work at an
approved 501(c)(3) organization in order to keep on Temporary Assistance benefits. Typicallym the
person may do something like sort donations for 25 hours/week at Good Will in order to keep
receiving benefits. NOLB will assist in helping each SIV find employment, however, we mandate that
SIVs also use the resources of CFC and Rochester Works. Each SIV should also be taught to use
Craigslist daily for job searches. SIVs are expected to take a bus to get to employment services. We
expect SIVs to use all resources available.
Dennis Moss is the NOLB Employment Search Coordinator as of 3/2017 (dennismoss@gmail.com)
Questions we will ask each SIV for employment purposes:
What is your education?
Do you have advanced degrees?
What was your work in the past 5 years?
What are your job qualifications and interests?
Initial job goal?
Future goals?
Do you have a resume?
*Do you have any hobbies or things you like to do?*
(*we ask this question because hobbies can lead to employment. We had one SIV who could
draw, and would draw as a hobby. It turns out that his drawing capabilities got him hired on a
job -- not his previous work experience. A similar experience occurred with an SIV who
enjoyed working on cars, but never worked as a mechanic.)
Starbucks Employment
Starbuck and NOLB have announced a national commitment for hiring SIVs. Please contact
Ellen@NoOneLeft.org for application details.
Benefits for those working 20 or more hours a week include 401(k) matching and discounted stock
purchase options, and health coverage for SIVs and their family.
SIVs may also take advantage of Starbucks College Achievement Plan for all benefits eligible
Starbucks employees to complete a bachelor’s degree with full-tuition coverage for every year of
college through Arizona State University’s top-ranked degree programs, delivered online. Employees
will also appreciate Starbucks’ recognition programs, career sabbaticals and other time-off programs.
See this link for interview tips with Starbucks: https://www.starbucks.com/careers/interview-tips
Page 30Page 31 Resume Writing OACES teacher for introductory resume writing Rochester Works: http://www.rochesterworks.org/ NOLB Volunteer: Maya Quirk Job Placement Catholic Family Center Job placement Consider contacting Veteran Owned Businesses: http://www.buyveteran.com/ Rochester Works: offers numerous job prepping workshops, job fairs, use of computers. http://www.rochesterworks.org/ Rochester Rehabilitation: Refugee employment services http://www.rochesterrehab.org/services/employment-connection/refugee-employment-services/ Monroe County Employment Consider civil service exam https://cs.monroecounty.gov/hrapply Wegmans Contact (through Cheryl Arena) Refugee Resettlement Services: Marcella Richter helps with job placement when employers call her looking for employees. mrprecisionpoint@gmail.com Page 31
Page 32 Housing Information Ellen will request help for housing, as needed. NOLB must find affordable apartments on bus routes. Every SIV family must obtain a signed landlord statement. (See below). Page 32
Page 33 Finding Affordable Housing Finding affordable, clean, safe housing is the most challenging aspect of resettlement. It simply does not exist. There are no liveable apartments within the DSS guidelines that are immediately available upon arrival, which is why budgeting welcome money over a 12-month period, providing furnishings, finding employment as soon as possible, and raising money for car grants to expand job possibilities is imperative. NOLB- ROC will attempt to pay a deposit for apartments not in the CFC network where there is not a CFC/landlord arrangement. However, we must continue to rely on donations and fund-raisers for this endeavor. Ellen requests money for housing from National NOLB. https://docs.google.com/a/nooneleft.org/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSepF06Iu2bwer3KzPRtA9xZLs5K52x7wit xdCFMWyOpVn8E7w/viewform?c=0&w=1 Ellison Park Apartments located at Blossom Rd. off of Rt. 590. Rents vary from $620 for a studio to $755 for a two bedroom. These apartments are small, but include heat, wi-fi and cable. The bus stops right in front of the complex, and the apartments are within walking distance of TOPS Supermarket, CVS, the Post Office and Library. Singles or couples will not be able to afford Ellison Park Apartment unless they share apartments. For instance, if we have two single SIVs, they will have up to $440 each for rent, so they can share a two bedroom for $755. Likewise, a couple will only have $589 for an apartment, and will not be able to afford even a studio at $620, but they can share a two bedroom with another couple. A couple may be able to afford the rent if they are able to quickly obtain employment. Co-signers are needed for this complex. Pines of Perinton (Fairport) is an income-based, HUD-sponsored affordable housing complex. However, it takes approximately 6 weeks to get a family into the Pines. Unless the family has host housing for 6 weeks, the Pines is not a realistic option. Two bedroom apartments are readily available. There is a 6-12 month wait for three bedrooms and up to two years for a four bedroom. To get on the waiting list, the SIV must have a SS number, bank account, and go through a lengthy application process. Once the application is submitted, the approval process takes 4-5 weeks. Once approved, they will be placed on the wait-list. Co-signers are not needed. Heat is included. WI-Fi or cable is not included. The bus does not run frequently -- every 90 minutes. Elmwood Manor (Brighton): NOLB has a tentative agreement with Elmwood manor for a trial basis for two apartments. Rochester Highlands: These apartments are affordable, but those SIVs only on DSS benefits will not meet the MINIMUM income guidelines. This apartment complex will not accept co-signers. Once an SIV has employment, Rochester Highlands would is an option for housing. A studio is $525, a one bedroom is $625, a two bedroom is $725 and a three bedroom is $815. Rochester Housing Authority (RHA) Administer section 8 housing - SECTION 8 IS NOW CLOSED AND NOT ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR AT LEAST TWO YEARS. Page 33
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