Community Action of Greene County, based in Catskill, NY, plays a vital role in combating poverty and empowering vulnerable residents across Greene County and parts of Columbia County. As the region’s designated antipoverty nonprofit, this organization provides a wide range of essential services from emergency assistance and housing support to food pantries and energy efficiency programs. By offering practical help and advocacy, Community Action helps individuals and families achieve greater selfsufficiency and build stronger local connections in and around Catskill.
Mission and Focus of Community Action
Community Action of Greene County is a nonprofit organization committed to reducing poverty and strengthening communities through advocacy and personcentered services. It serves a broad geographic area including Greene County and Columbia County, and operates programs designed to improve living conditions, support income growth, and foster collaboration among service providers. These services aim to empower residents to reach economic stability and independence.
Main Programs and Services Offered
Community Action offers diverse programs tailored to urgent needs as well as longterm stability. Programs include food support, housing assistance, tax preparation, transportation aid, and energy savings initiatives. Services are typically free or low cost, designed to be accessible to lowincome individuals and families in Catskill and surrounding areas.
Emergency Assistance & Housing Support
- Financial help for rent, utilities, or emergency shelter
- Referrals and case management for homelessness prevention
- Support in navigating benefit applications such as SNAP and TANF
Food Pantry and Nutrition Aid
- A community food pantry to distribute groceries and basic supplies
- Partnerships with local food banks and neighborhood distribution programs
- Meal assistance during crises or seasonal shortages
These efforts help ensure households facing food insecurity receive timely, dignified support.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
Through VITA, Community Action offers free tax preparation services to eligible low to moderateincome households. This helps participants claim tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit, which can boost annual refunds and reduce financial stress.
Weatherization Assistance Program
By improving home insulation, sealing leaks, and installing energyefficient equipment, the weatherization program aims to reduce energy costs and enhance living conditions. These upgrades help households save money and maintain healthier indoor environments yearround.
Domestic Violence & Victim Services
Community Action maintains a 24hour hotline and support services for survivors of domestic violence. These services include crisis intervention, safety planning, referrals, and advocacy to help ensure survivors get the protections and resources they need.
Pay It Forward Thrift Store
This thrift storefront allows donations of clothing, household items, and furniture, which are resold at affordable prices. Revenue supports the agency’s charitable programs, while also providing lowcost goods to community members in need.
Organizational Structure and Reach
Based at 7856 Route 9W, Catskill, NY, Community Action of Greene County operates Monday through Friday with standard business hours. The organization is led by an Executive Director and supported by a board of directors. Funding comes from federal block grants, state programs, private donations, and inkind support, which together enable its wide portfolio of antipoverty services.
- Serving all of Greene County and parts of Columbia County
- Designated Community Action agency for the region
- Programs tailored to local needs in Catskill, Hunter, Cairo, and other towns
Community Impact and Outcomes
Community Action of Greene County has delivered meaningful services to thousands of local residents. By addressing immediate hardships and supporting longterm planning, the organization helps clients transition out of crisis into financial stability and selfreliance. Its programs reduce barriers to employment, establish healthier housing, and aid in overall wellbeing.
Key Impact Areas
- Increased access to healthy food and housing support
- Lowered utility expenses through energy upgrades
- Improved tax outcomes via free preparation services
- Safety and resources offered to survivors of domestic abuse
Volunteerism and Community Engagement
Volunteerism is central to Community Action’s operation. Local residents contribute through tax assistance roles, food pantry staffing, thrift store operations, and special events. The organization also welcomes donations of goods, funds, or inkind support, boosting its ability to deliver services locally.
Ways to Contribute
- Donate food, clothing, or household items to the thrift store
- Volunteer time for service programs or outreach events
- Provide financial gifts to support program costs
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Community Action works with partners like the United Way of the Greater Capital Region, local government agencies, Columbia Greene victim services, and regional food banks. These collaborations enhance reach, share resources, and amplify community support efforts across Catskill and surrounding towns.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its significant work, the agency faces challenges such as rising demand for services, limited funding, and changing regulations. To remain effective, Community Action continues adapting to community needs, expanding volunteer networks, and advocating for policies that support lowincome communities in Greene County.
Looking Ahead: Future Goals
Community Action of Greene County aims to expand access and impact over time. Future goals include:
- Extending outreach to underserved rural areas
- Building financial literacy and job coaching programs
- Strengthening affordable housing coordination in partnership with local redevelopment efforts
- Expanding weatherization and utilitysaving services
Community Action of Greene County, Inc., serves as a cornerstone for social support and empowerment in Catskill and beyond. Through its diverse programs covering food assistance, housing aid, energy efficiency, tax support, and more it provides critical lifelines to people facing poverty or crisis. Its personcentered approach and strong community partnerships help local families move toward stability and independence. For residents and allies in Greene County, Community Action stands not only as a service provider, but as a partner in building a healthier, more resilient community.
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