BLOG: Clarifi Opens "Wednesday" Office at City Hall In Atlantic City
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Clarifi, the region's largest nonprofit credit counseling agency, opened an office directly in Atlantic City Hall this week.
The office operates every Wednesday and is staffed by a HUD-certified credit and housing counselor.
Atlantic City and its residents continue to struggle financially, making Clarifi's services especially vital. The city currently has the highest foreclosure rate in the country and unemployment stands at 7.8 percent.
"Our goal is to offer people hope and resources to help them become more financially stable," says Stephanie Bittner, New Jersey Community Outreach Manager for Clarifi. "We're also focused on helping people take advantage of programs to avoid foreclosure."
At their new office, Clarifi can help local residents and city employees:
• Learn ways to better manage and maximize their money
• Adjust spending based on their income and pay cycle
• Review options to afford your mortgage and stay current
• Improve their credit and reduce debt
• Prepare for home ownership
Atlantic City employees, who are now only receiving paychecks monthly, are also being encouraged to meet with a Clarifi counselor to review their budgets and maximize their incomes.
Appointments for Clarifi's new office in Atlantic City Hall must be scheduled in advance online at clarifi.org/AC or by calling 800-989-2227.