New Yorkers aged 60 and older can find out, free of charge and in their own language, which benefits they are entitled to and get help filling out the applications. That help comes from the Extended Social Services Program for seniors at the Polish & Slavic Center, 176 Java Street in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.
What the program does
Program staff explain the benefits offered by New York City, New York State and the federal government and check whether a person meets the requirements. They help fill out applications, make phone calls to agencies and institutions on the client’s behalf, translate letters and correspondence, and explain the rules that apply. For many older people these are exactly the hardest parts: official English, long forms and phone menus that are hard to get through.
What it covers
- Retirement and disability – Retirement Benefits, Survivor Benefits, Disability Benefits, SSI, Veterans Benefits and union pensions.
- Health and prescriptions – Medicare Parts A, B and D, Medicaid and the state Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage program.
- Housing and bills – the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE), the Senior Citizen Homeowners’ Exemption (SCHE), the IT-214 Real Property Tax Credit, school tax relief, public housing, HEAP heating assistance and weatherization referrals.
- Everyday support – SNAP, Public Assistance, unemployment benefits, reduced-fare MetroCards, Access-A-Ride and Lifeline phone service.
Free and city-funded
All services are free. The program is funded by the New York City Council and the NYC Department for the Aging, with additional support from the Polish & Slavic Center.
Hours and contact
The program office is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 176 Java Street (Room 2), Brooklyn, NY 11222. It is a good idea to call ahead – 929-210-3739 or 718-489-1533 – and to bring the letters your case is about.
About the Polish & Slavic Center
The Polish & Slavic Center has served Greenpoint since 1972. Besides social services, it runs an Immigration and Legal Services Program, the Krakus Senior Center in Greenpoint and the John Paul II Friendship Center in Manhattan, free English (ESL) classes and a scholarship program for Polish-American students.
More on the Center’s website: Extended Social Services. Contact details are in the Polish & Slavic Center listing in the PolishPages directory.
