FAQs
Answers about Social Care Network services
Straight answers about eligibility, screening, and available food and housing services.
Common questions
What members ask most
This website does not approve services. A person on our team checks what you may qualify for. Final yes/no comes from the program, not this website.
Read New York's eligibility rulesHow does the screening work?
The Self-Screening Form asks a few questions about needs such as food, housing, and transportation. You decide whether to share or submit it to a care coordinator for review.
What happens after I submit?
A care coordinator reviews a screening you submit and explains possible next steps. Even if you don't meet all the criteria, you may still find similar services through other state, federal, or local programs.
What if I'm already in a Health Home?
You can still get screened. The two programs can work together. Your Health Home care manager can do the screening with you. Joining won't change your Health Home or your Medicaid.
Is it free?
Yes. If you have Medicaid, screening is free. Covered Social Care Network services don't cost you anything.
Can my whole family participate?
Yes. Anyone in your household with a Medicaid number can be screened. People may qualify for different help based on their needs.
What if I already get help from a food pantry or housing agency?
You may still qualify for other help — like meals made for a health need, utility bills, mold cleanup, or home safety changes. The program won't pay twice for the same thing.
Will I lose my benefits if I don't join?
No. This is voluntary. It won't affect your Medicaid. You can join or leave anytime.
How do I know if I'm eligible?
Start with a free screening. Some extra services are for Managed Care members with certain health situations. Even if that isn't you, we can still help you find other programs.
Will this affect my Medicaid?
No. Screening is voluntary and won't change your Medicaid.
What if I have Fee-for-Service Medicaid?
Yes — you can still get screened and help finding food, housing, and other programs. Some extra services need Managed Care.
Who might get extra support?
People who use the hospital a lot, Health Home members, people with substance use or serious mental illness, people with developmental disabilities, pregnant people and new parents, some people recently released from incarceration, and high-risk kids under 18.
How much rent help is possible?
Some people may get up to six months of rent, back-rent, or temporary housing help. A person on our team checks the rules.
Will rent money be paid to me?
No. If approved, payment goes to the landlord or housing provider — not to you.
Can I get food help while pregnant or after giving birth?
Some people may get meals, food boxes, or groceries during pregnancy and for up to 12 months after birth. Some programs can provide up to three meals a day.
What if I don't meet all the criteria?
Even if you don't meet all the criteria, you may still get connected to other programs. A quick free screening will help find the best options.
How do I get started?
Fill out the short Self-Screening Form, ask your doctor or clinic, or email OpenDoor Care. We'll help with the next step.