The+Benefit+Bank

Logan CDC: A Benefit Bank Site

//Program connects eligible individuals and families with their piece of the $35 billion in government tax credits and benefits that go unclaimed annually.//

PHILADELPHIA, PA (February 18, 2009) – Logan CDC today announced its inception as a Benefit Bank site, enabling the organization to provide assistance to residents with filing their income tax returns and applying for a wide range of federal and state benefits, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medical and Cash Assistance, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), Medicaid, and prescription drug coverage.

Each year, millions of individuals and families fail to receive the money and benefits due to them and -- as a result -- more than $35 billion in government benefits go unclaimed. The Benefit Bank helps connect people to these resources. "The Benefit Bank is an empowering tool, helping to connect people in need to public resources while helping them navigate the complex application process," said Cicely Peterson-Mangum, executive director of Logan CDC.

The Benefit Bank (TBB) is an internet-based, counselor-assisted service that helps low- and moderate-income individuals and families file for tax credits and benefits for which they are eligible. Created by Philadelphia-based Solutions for Progress, TBB was designed to aid in helping people overcome barriers that have prevented them from taking advantage of programs that can help strengthen their economic condition.

"These are tough times for all of us, but many families are struggling more than others simply because they're not receiving the benefits that they should," said Robert J. Brand, CEO of Solutions for Progress. "Some individuals think they are not eligible for certain benefits, others get lost in the complex application process or they are simply unaware the benefits even exist. The Benefit Bank provides an easy and efficient way to get the benefits to those who need them the most."


 * The Benefit Bank at Logan CDC offers assistance free of charge to all eligible residents by appointment only. For more information, please contact Carla Robinson at 215-457-3014 or** **carla@logancdc.org****.**

Through collaborations and independently, Logan CDC seeks to enhance quality of life for Logan residents and businesses through revitalization efforts: community development, residential housing programs and community-focused education. Key projects include the Logan Neighborhood Advisory Committee and mixed-use real estate development in the Logan Urban Renewal Area.

-- Cicely Peterson-Mangum │ Executive Director

Logan CDC

5325 Old York Road, Suite 217 │ Philadelphia, PA 19141

Phone: 215.457.3014 │ Fax: 215.457.3015 │ cicely@logancdc.org

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