Client Services Department
The Client Services Department is designed to assist families in a holistic manner by improving their quality of life and movement towards self-sufficiency through a variety of social service programs and resources. All clients must go through an initial intake process which includes completing an assessment to clarify household circumstances which will allow us to target appropriate programs and resources. This program is partially funded by DCED, through the Mayor’s Office of Community Empowerment and Opportunity.
Our Client Services Department is divided into two main divisions:
Benefits Access Center/Basic Needs
The BenePhilly Counselors assist Philadelphia residents in achieving financial stability through public benefits. The process begins with a screening for free State benefits based on household size and income. If eligible, our counselors assist with application completion and subsequent follow up to ensure enrollment. Counselors may screen for:
• Medicaid
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
• Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Utility Emergency Service Funds (UESF)
• Much more!
Emergency Food Cupboard
The Food Cupboard provides emergency food to community residents. Clients are eligible to receive food once every 60 days. Identification and social security cards for every household member are required.
Clothing Closet
Community residents may access our clothing closet once a month and receive up to seven gently used articles of clothing.
Housing Counseling Services
Our Housing Counselors assist with both home attainment and home retention. Programs include the following:
First Time Home Buyers Workshop
This is a seminar where potential first-time homebuyers are prepared for homeownership. Clients are educated on the entire home buying process including how to shop for a mortgage, looking for a realtor, and obtaining grants to buy a first home.
Homeowners Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program Foreclosure Prevention (HEMAP)
This program provides assistance to homeowners who are facing foreclosure and provides them with viable options to save their home or resolve the housing situation. Homeowners are encouraged to call the counselors from day 2 of delinquency to 1 week prior to Sheriff Sale.
For more information contact Asha Jackson, Client Services Supervisor at 215-468-1645
x7244 or ashajackson@ucsep.org.
