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 2024 through September 2025, Opportunities for Otsego supported 2,441 individuals from 1,138 households across rural Otsego County. Of these households, 81% live below the Federal Poverty Level, and 94% fall below the Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) threshold, indicating ongoing challenges in affording basic needs.

Impact in Action

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

  • Seventy-six homeless households were provided safe, temporary housing at the agency homeless and domestic violence shelters.
  • The Violence Intervention Program answered 921 hotline calls, providing immediate support, safety planning, and connections to vital resources for individuals in crisis.
  • Warm winter coats were gifted to 185 low-income children.
  • 457 Caregivers were provided parenting support to strengthening caregiving skills and enhancing overall family well-being, exhibited improved parenting skills and family functioning.
  • 45 Low-income households in Otsego and Chenango Counties had reduced energy costs, increased disposable income and improved health as a result of energy efficiency and weatherization measures.
  • 802 children and adults experienced reduced food insecurity and improved health through access to nutrition resources via WIC and our new stop-gap food pantry.
  • 332 children, ages birth -5, received recommended immunizations, well-child visits, and dental screening and care.

Read our full impact in our Annual Report 

Meeting Community Needs

Over the past year, Opportunities for Otsego launched new initiatives, strengthened community partnerships, and secured grant funding to address emerging needs across Otsego County. Together, these efforts expanded access to essential services, enhanced support for children and families, and reinforced our commitment to meeting people where they are.

  • In partnership with Care Compass Collaborative, OFO is connecting Medicaid Members with health-related social services, including housing, food, and transportation, to enhance and support their overall well-being.
  • To address growing food insecurity needs of individuals and families engaged in agency services, OFO expanded its stop-gap food pantry. The pantry helps alleviate transportation barriers and limitations in accessing other community pantries and meal programs. The pantry serves nearly 100 people each month and provides tailored resources to support unhoused individuals and households with pets. The expansion of the pantry would not be possible without the support of the Community Foundation of Otsego County, Home Depot, Brandow's Feed and Seed, Tractor Supply, and individual donors.
  • Through the support of the Community Foundation of Unadilla, the local Head Start center organized a "Back Pack" program; providing essential food for children during extended program breaks.
  • Through a donation from the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services, OFO partnered with local law enforcement agencies to distribute gun locks and information on safe gun storage.
  • To better serve Otsego County residents, OFO transitioned to the New York State Balance of State Continuum of Care, which offers a broader network of resources and an integrated approach to secure stable, safe, and affordable housing for those in need.
  • Stewart's Shop Holiday Match program awarded funds for Head Start to purchase technology to enhance developmental assessment process and support teachers in their practice.
  • Community Foundation of South Central New York awarded unrestricted funds
  • Through a grant from the Community Foundation of Otsego County, OFO is able to address food insecurity and assist households with unexpected utility expenses.
  • Head Start was able to meet unmet needs through the generosity of The TJX Foundation.
  • To better serve Otsego County residents, OFO transitioned to the New York State Balance of State Continuum of Care, which offers a broader network of resources and an integrated approach to secure stable, safe, and affordable housing for those in need.

“The program has been a huge support for me from the very first day....My advocate is one of the most trusted individuals I have for support with all that has happened to me.“ 

Help us reach our goals

Learn more by downloading our brochure