Money is tight, utility and food costs are up, affordable housing is limited and senior housing has long waiting lists. Foreclosures are at an all time high and the wealth gap is growing. Sometimes it’s hard to make ends meet, and the worry about who is on our side and who might be trying to take advantage of us can keep us up at night. But there are advocates who can help!

Center in the Park’s (CIP) Housing Counselors are happy to meet with anyone who wishes to discuss any number of financial and housing related concerns. CIP’s counselors can help with Foreclosures, Property Tax Hardships and Rebate applications. They can help figure out how to approach a stubborn landlord, and can advise you about your budget and monthly expenses, making sure your money is going as far it can every month. They can also advise about how to start applying for Subsidized Senior Housing.

Need home repairs? CIP’s Housing Counselors can help you explore options for safe loans and what free programs are available and how long you might have to wait to get them.

Center in the Park also offers educational workshops given by knowledgeable presenters and trusted organizations. Watch for topics such as: Scams and Frauds to Avoid, Smart Investments, Basic Financial Management, Home Repairs, Reverse Mortgages, Senior Housing, and Wills and Powers of Attorney.

If you wish to inquire about CIP’s services, make an appointment; or, if you wish to be alerted about our upcoming workshops, please call 215-848-7722 and ask to speak to a Housing Counselor– Michelle or Bernadette - or contact us by email at info@centerinthepark.org.

These activities are made possible through funding from the City’s Office of Housing and Community Development (OHCD).

Center in the Park is also a Neighborhood Energy Center (NEC) and can help if you are in need of assistance with: LIHEAP; oil assistance; utility assistance; budget counseling; energy counseling; and weatherization applications and training.

The CIP NEC is open from 10:00am until 3:00pm on Monday, Tuesdays and Thursdays; and, 10:00am until 1:00pm on Fridays. If these times are inconvenient, please call for the possibility of arranging a time that works for your schedule.

All applications are on a first come first served basis and in order to apply for assistance, you should bring the following: 30 days proof of income for your household; social security numbers and dates of birth for members of your household. Certain applications require additional information. Call CIP’s Energy Assistance Coordinator, Dan at 215-848-7722 for more information.

Upcoming free workshops on weatherization and conservation will be held on February 10th and 24th – call Dan to register. Everyone is welcomed and if your income meets requirements, you will also receive free weatherization material for attending.

CIP wants to work with you to “stay warm” this winter.

These activities are made possible through funding from the Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA).

Membership at Center in the Park is open to adults, age 55+ and non-members may attend certain classes, trips and activities, as well. For an appointment with the Center Counselor or membership registrars, call 215-848-7722. Visit the Center’s website at: www.centerinthepark.org

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