How to Apply

Self-Sufficiency Centers in the region served by New Opportunities were established to fully inform lower income people and others about the wide variety of supportive help programs that are available to them and to determine which of these would best address their needs. These Centers provide a “no wrong door” approach to customer service and case management. Area residents need only stop by a Center to start learning in how many ways they may be eligible for assistance. Centers offer a place where people can come to ask questions; in turn, they will receive answers and guidance.

Self-Sufficiency case managers provide comprehensive intake, assessment and follow-up services designed to track their customers’ progress; over time they work with these clients to help them move toward independence. Through information and referral services, customers are linked to appropriate community resources, including application assistance to access any suitable Department of Social Services programs.

To get started fill out an application at one of our self sufficiency centers. This is the only application customers need to begin the help process. Respondents may print it out, fill it out and bring it with them to their chosen Self-Sufficiency Center; or those uncertain about how to answer any or all questions on their form will be given help with it when they get to the Center.

Although it is not required to bring a completed application on the first visit to any Self-Sufficiency Center, bringing a fully or partially completed application form can speed up the initial entry process.

A brief look at the application form will tell applicants the information they will need to complete it:

• Social Security number
• Date of birth
• Income
• Work status
• Information about current residence, if any

Self sufficiency center locations are listed on our Locations page.