3,167

The number of people benefiting from OFO services in 2023.

Our Reach

Opportunities for Otsego has been an important part of our community and instrumental in improving the lives of low-income families in Otsego County since 1966. From homelessness to domestic violence, from sexual assault to home energy improvements, from early childhood education to supplemental nutrition, Opportunities for Otsego has lead the charge in developing innovative solutions that promote healthy lives, thriving families and caring communities.

Over the years the face of poverty has changed, and during these difficult economic times, the problems faced by low-income households have multiplied. Most families served by Opportunities for Otsego are employed and struggling to make ends meet. They work in our supermarkets, school districts, local businesses and local governments and are the backbone of our community.

Over the period October 2022 through September 2023, Opportunities for Otsego supported 3,167 individuals from 1,119 households residing in communities across Otsego County.

Our Impact

A summary of client outcomes achieved through the support of OFO programs:

  • Through the support of Bridges to Kindergarten, eight elementary-age children demonstrated improved approaches to learning and attention skills.
  • Forty-three Homeless households were provided safe, temporary housing at the agency homeless and domestic violence shelters.
  • Twenty-seven previously homeless households secured affordable, permanent housing.
  • The Violence Intervention Program assured the safety of 232 victims of crime.
  • Warm winter coats were gifted to 305 low-income children.
  • 225 Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers were up-to-date on recommended well child visits and obtained recommended immunizations, and dental care.
  • 66 Preschoolers were deemed developmentally ready to begin kindergarten after participation in Head Start and UPK.
  • 461 Caregivers exhibited improved parenting skills and family functioning.
  • 87 Low-income households had reduced energy costs, increased disposable income and improved health as a result of energy efficiency and weatherization measures.
  • 1,243 children and adults had improved physical health through access to adequate nutrition.

During FY2023, Opportunities for Otsego successfully secured additional federal and state grant funding to expand and enhance programming to benefit the community:

  • Through over $7000,000 in historic funding awarded by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development , Opportunities for Otsego will collaborate with community providers to address rural homelessness and provide financial assistance, intensive case management, and innovative strategies to rapidly rehouse homeless persons.
  • As part of it’s continuation funding grant, the Violence Intervention Program was awarded additional funding from the New York State Office of Victims Services to create and manage a soft interview room. This trauma-informed space will be utilized in partnership with local law enforcement to interview adult victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and other gender-based crimes.

Help us reach our goals