The Tioga County Department of Economic Development and Planning has been granted an extension from NYS Governor's Office of Small cities (GOSC) to provide displaced, qualified flood victims financial assistance in paying costs associated with temporary housing as a result of the June flood. Up to $2,500 can be dispersed to each family displaced by the flood for rent, utility payments, basic furniture and food purchases incurred at a temporary residence. The new deadline will be Friday, March 9, but expenses can be covered retroactively back to June 28, 2006, given proper documentation. Tioga County Department of Economic Development and Planning, Tioga County Department of Social Services and Tioga Opportunities, Inc. are collaborating to provide this program to Tioga County's eligible flood victims.

 For more information about the program, contact Elaine Jardine, County Planning Director at 687-8255 or to apply for this aid contact Matthew Zacardo, Director of Community Services at Tioga opportunities, Inc., at (607) 687-4222 extension 302. Contact them as soon as possible so your eligibility can be determined and assistance can be awarded as soon as possible.