The Associated network provides programs and services that offer you the tools to take control of your finances. Use our financial wellness page to explore how we can help and contact us when you are ready. You can also reach out to an agency directly to learn more about their services:

Jewish Community Services: Financial education, scholarships, financial resources, housing support, employment resources, aging, mental health & wellness, disability support.

• Phone: 410-466-9200
• Email: info@jcsbaltimore.org

Comprehensive Housing Assistance, Inc. (CHAI): Housing support.

• Phone: 410-500-5300
• Email: info@chaibaltimore.org

Jewish Community Center: JCC Experiences Scholarships

• Phone: 410-500-5900
• Email: info@jcc.org

AgeWell Baltimore: Aging services.

• Phone: 410-500-5328
• Email: info@agewellbaltimore.org

CHANA: Support for domestic violence & abuse.

• Phone: 410-500-5328
• Email: info@chanabaltimore.org

There are many supports available to families and individuals of all income levels. Visit the Financial Resources page for more information.

When you apply for unemployment benefits or other government assistance, your personal information is kept confidential according to laws like the Privacy Act.

Agencies within The Associated network offer assistance with a focus on privacy. Our goal is to support you without judgment, and we are required to handle your information confidentially. All information is maintained in secure files.

Always make sure you share financial information with companies and organizations you trust.

Start by reviewing expenses and determining what can be reduced until you have more disposable income. Jewish Community Service’s (JCS) financial wellness services can help you develop a new budget to maintain your finances during this time.

Check if you are eligible for unemployment benefits and apply to what’s available to you. JCS can guide you through applying for unemployment and other public benefits, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formally known as Food Stamps, and Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

For employment support, the JCS Ignite Career Center offers a range of services from resume writing to career coaching.

• Review Income & Expenses — Sit down together and analyze monthly income and costs. If needed, identify areas to reduce spending.
• Explore Available Resources — Depending on income and assets, your parents may qualify for state-funded programs for food, utilities, rent and medical aid. Start with Maryland’s Department of Human Services, Department of Aging or Maryland Access Point (MAP).
  
  You can also contact AgeWell Baltimore at 410-500-5328 or info@agewellbaltimore.org for support getting connected to resources for older adults.
• Adjust Spending — If your parents don’t qualify for aid, help them align expenses with their needs. Housing is often the highest expense. Explore if more affordable housing options are available.
• Seek Professional Guidance — Jewish Community Services offers programs and resources to help your parents effectively budget to avoid outliving their expenses.

• Track Expenses — Record and categorize all expenses (bills, debt payments, variable costs like groceries and entertainment). Review bank statements to spot spending patterns and catch errors.
• Follow a Budgeting Rule — Try the 50/30/20 method: 50% for necessities, 30% for discretionary spending and 20% for savings & debt repayment. Adjust based on your situation.
• Cut Unnecessary Costs — Cancel unused subscriptions, curb impulse shopping and negotiate bills where possible.