Financial counseling nonprofit Clarifi has opened a new office at the Burlington-Riverfront YMCA, a branch of the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties. The office will be staffed by a certified housing and credit counselor and can help local residents meet their financial goals.
Services will include: developing a realistic spending plan; improving credit and reducing debt; avoiding foreclosure; preparing for homeownership; and reviewing bankruptcy options.
Many local New Jersey residents continue to struggle financially, making Clarifi’s services especially vital. The Garden State had the second-highest foreclosure rate in July, with 1 in every 608 homes in the foreclosure process. In Burlington County, 17.8 percent of mortgages are underwater, above the national average of 11.9 percent.
“We’re excited to offer a community resource where people can receive trusted financial guidance from a certified counselor in a judgment-free space,” Stephanie Bittner, senior New Jersey community outreach manager for Clarifi, said “Many clients come to us with a significant problem, but we can also help you if you just want to make sure you’re on the right track financially.”
Clients will be in especially good hands. Clarifi’s primary counselor at this new location, Elizabeth Greenwood, has been with the agency for over 40 years.
In opening an office at the Y, local families can maintain their financial health in the same place they maintain their physical health.
“At the Y, we advocate for positive change in the community by providing access to the programs and services people need to improve not only their minds and bodies, but their whole selves. This partnership with Clarifi does just that,” said Tim Kerrihard, President and CEO of the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties. “When individuals and families are financially healthy and secure, our entire community benefits.”
“The YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties offers much needed services to our neighbors and we’re proud to partner with them to help expand their community resources,” Bittner said.
Appointments can be scheduled at clarifi.org or by calling (800) 989–2227.
