What does this measure?

The average number of people of all ages receiving public assistance each month, per 1,000 residents. This includes both major welfare programs: Family Assistance and Safety Net. Safety Net covers single adults, children living without their parents, and others not eligible for Family Assistance.

Why is this important?

This measure represents the numbers of individuals dependent upon government support for their basic needs.

How are Cayuga and Seneca counties performing?

In 2010, the proportion of residents that received Temporary Assistance was 13 per 1,000 in Cayuga County 7 in Seneca, considerably lower than the rate of 18 in the state (excluding NYC). Both counties and the state have seen increases since 2008 when the national recession took hold. Cayuga’s rate since 2001 has on average been similar to the comparison counties except for Onondaga, where rates are significantly higher. Seneca’s average rate of 8 since 2001 is below the comparison counties. Both Cayuga and Seneca’s average rates (12 and 8, respectively) have been below the state average of 17.

Notes about the data

National data were not available in comparable form. Data do not necessarily reflect the number of people eligible for this benefit, only those who receive it.