Counseling Programs

SCUCS Counseling Programs provide comprehensive guidance and support for individuals navigating crucial aspects of their well-being, including financial benefits, housing options, and health insurance information. 

Benefits Counseling

The Benefits Counseling Program at Senior Citizens United Community Services (SCUCS) provides dedicated financial guidance to Camden County residents aged 60 and older. Through confidential one-on-one sessions, our counselors assist seniors with budgeting, debt management, and navigating applications for essential entitlement programs such as SNAP, PAAD, and LiHEAP/USF. Whether you need help managing expenses or want to check your eligibility for additional aid, we offer in-person, phone, and Zoom appointments to ensure you receive the support you need.

Housing Counseling

The Housing Counseling Program at Senior Citizens United Community Services (SCUCS) empowers tenants and prospective renters in Camden and surrounding counties to secure and maintain safe, affordable housing. Our HUD-Certified Housing Counselors provide free, personalized guidance on financial literacy, tenant rights, and household budgeting, while also serving as a safeguard against housing scams and discrimination. Leveraging strong relationships with local landlords and an up-to-date database of housing availability, we assist clients in identifying affordable units and navigating waitlists through both in-person and phone appointments.

Housing Navigation

The Housing Navigator Program offers a variety of homelessness prevention activities including:

  • Outreach to realtors, landlords, housing developers, and other housing providers to identify new and existing housing opportunities
  • Maintenance of a strong inventory of available housing options in an accessible database
  • Providing a landlord/tenant awareness marketing campaign and hosting a minimum of two landlord/tenant sessions to provide information about a variety of relevant topics such as the support services available to tenants who may be struggling, working with vouchers/ understanding the benefits and lease literacy.

 

Shared Housing

The Shared Housing Program connects Camden County homeowners with individuals seeking affordable housing to create mutually beneficial living arrangements that reduce financial strain and combat isolation. Requiring at least one participant in each match to be 60 years or older, the program helps older adults remain independent in their homes while providing a cost-effective housing alternative for seekers. We ensure a safe and compatible fit through a rigorous screening process that includes personal interviews, background checks, references, and a mandatory “Trial Weekend”. Once a match is made, our staff provides ongoing case management and support for six months to ensure a successful partnership.

 

State Health Insurance Program (SHIP)

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at Senior Citizens United Community Services (SCUCS) provides free, objective guidance to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers. Our team of screened, trained, and certified counselors offers confidential, one-on-one assistance to help you navigate the complexities of Medicare. Whether you need help understanding costs and coverage, correcting billing issues, comparing insurance options, or enrolling in plans, we provide the unbiased support necessary to make informed healthcare decisions and potentially save you money.