40.9

million Americans were living below the official poverty line in 2022.

Vote Now: Board of Directors Low-Income Representation

Donations Needed

Although Giving Tuesday is behind us, OFO is asking the community to extend their generosity in support of our homeless shelter. Our family homeless shelter has a great need for laundry detergent as we are at capacity. Laundry detergent can be dropped off at 3 West Broadway in Oneonta between 8AM-5PM or the homeless shelter located at 10-20 Depew Street (behind Advance Auto Parts, River Street) 24/7. Other ways you can help.

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About Opportunities for Otsego

Founded in 1966, Opportunities for Otsego helps alleviate poverty and fosters self-sufficiency through comprehensive and holistic client-centered services. The Agency focuses its attention on specific problems affecting the community, mobilizes resources, and creates solutions to unlock opportunities for low-income individuals and disenfranchised families.

Agency Mission

The leader in developing innovative solutions that promote healthy lives, thriving families, and caring communities.

Agency Vision

Our preferred future is a community that strives to alleviate poverty through collaborations that foster economic stability and social justice.

Upcoming Events

12.25.2024 - Agency Closed: OFO will be closed in recognition of Christmas Day.  The Emergency Housing and Violence Intervention Program 24-hour shelters and hotlines will still be available to those in need.

01.01.2025 - Agency Closed: OFO will be closed for News Years Day.  The Emergency Housing and Violence Intervention Program 24-hour shelters and hotlines will still be available to those in need.

01.20.2025 - Agency Closed: OFO will be closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.  The Emergency Housing and Violence Intervention Program 24-hour shelters and hotlines will still be available to those in need.

REMINDER: Opportunities for Otsego IS NOT a HEAP Certifier and cannot process applications for benefits. Households receiving other benefits from DSS (e.g. FA, SN, SNAP, or Code A SSI) should contact their caseworker. All other households may apply online or reach out to DSS or Office for the Aging. Click here for an overview of HEAP benefits and eligiblity.

What's Happening...

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NOW ENROLLING! Head Start is enrolling for the 2024-2025 program year. Children must turn three years old by December 1st begin in a Head Start classrooms in the Fall.  Support is also offered to prenatal mothers and children up to three years old through Early Head Start. Apply online, or for more information call 607.433.8055 or visit our Eligibility page.

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BLOWER DOOR TESTING: OFO’s Energy Services Division is an Otsego County approved contractor for blower door testing. Schedule an appointment today by calling 607.433.0444 ext 102.

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TENANTS RIGHTS: Valuable resources are available for those facing eviction or other housing crises on our Housing Services page.

Annual Report

$5,590,890reinvested into the local economy through employee salaries and program services. (FY2023)

News & Events



12.13.2024 - Head Start Updates Eligibility
Local Head Start programs will now consider housing costs in determining eligibility for Head Start preschool and homebased services. Additionally, Social Security benefits, veteran’s benefits, and alimony are no longer considered in calculating household gross income.
09.27.2024 - OFO Remembers Executive Director
OFO Board of Directors and staff extend its condolence to the family, friends, and loved ones of Mary Cheryl “Cheri” Albrecht. For nearly 20 years, Cheri lead OFO as its first female Executive Director, leaving a legacy that truly made a difference in the lives of the less fortunate across Otsego County.
08.30.20024 - OFO Advocates for Homeless
For 36 years, OFO has offered supportive services to homeless and at-risk households across Otsego County. Over this time, the agency has struggled alongside families to fully address housing needs considering dwindling resources and compounding community conditions that foster housing instability.