JEFFCAP COMMUNITY CENTERS

OVERVIEW

The JeffCAP Community Centers offer community-based programs and services that embody a “wrap around” model used to strengthen families and improve communities. By supporting the emphasis on employment and promoting personal responsibility, we believe that families can and will move out of poverty and reach a level of overall self-sufficiency. Jefferson Community Action Programs (JeffCAP) has eight (8) Community Centers -- six on the West Bank of Jefferson Parish and two on the East Bank of the Parish.

TYPES OF ASSISTANCE & SERVICES

A wide array of services are provided at our JeffCAP Community Center locations. If you are interested in any of the services listed below, please contact your local community center. All assistance is on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

Utility Assistance — JeffCAP offers several programs to assist clients with utilities. These include, but are not limited, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Share the Warmth (Atmos). JeffCAP also has limited funded programs for utility assistance; for more information, please get in touch with your local center.

Employment Services — JeffCAP offers clients a space to conduct Job Searches, Job Readiness Referrals (Workforce), Job Application Assistance (at select centers), Employment Referrals, Employment Supportive Services (see CSBG), and Jefferson Council on Aging Senior Employment Referrals. Through CSBG funding, JeffCAP can assist qualifying clients with obtaining skills/competencies for Education Supportive Services (see CSBG).

Education Services – Through CSBG funding, JeffCAP can assist qualifying clients with addressing barriers to educational opportunities through Education Supportive Services (i.e., assistance with completing ABE/GED and obtaining a certificate or diploma).  

Nutrition Assistance / Food Distribution – Through a partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank, JeffCAP provides monthly food boxes to qualified individuals. Applications are not accepted on distribution days. Please contact your local community center for distribution dates and times.

Housing Services – JeffCAP provides comprehensive Housing Counseling to tenants and homeowners; information and referrals, emergency mortgage assistance (when funding is available); First-Time Homebuyers Program; and Financial Fitness Training (see Housing Counseling). We also provide referrals for clients experiencing homelessness. 

Cox Cable Senior Discount – Through a partnership with Cox Cable, JeffCAP can assist with completing the application for the Cox Senior Citizen Discount of 30% off basic cable services. Customers who are 60 or older and earn less than $24,000 can contact local community centers to apply. 

Other Services - JeffCAP also offers assistance with the Prescription Drug Discount Program, SNAP, Voter Registration, and Adult Computer Literacy Classes (at select locations).

Health Services – JeffCAP offers Medicaid/Medicare application assistance and referrals to obtain health care services and screenings. 

Linkage/Referrals Services – Through Case Management Services, customers are referred or linked to outside resources based on individual needs.

Community Organization – JeffCAP Community Centers host Community Health Fairs, Night Out Against Crime events, Community/ Civic Association Meetings, and Senior Guilds. 

Event Venues – Citizens, organizations, and businesses can rent our facilities for nominal fees. Please get in touch with the community center of your choice to begin the process.

Volunteer/Internship Opportunities - Our Community Centers assist organizations within Jefferson Parish, including schools, local courts, universities, community groups, and individuals with volunteer opportunities. We welcome the citizens of Jefferson Parish that desire to give back to their communities and volunteer with us. Service can be completed through our Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), JeffCAP Community Volunteer Program, or Community Service Internships.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION FOR ASSISTANCE

Many programs and services require the same information when applying for services offered at your local JeffCAP Community Centers. It is best to ensure you have access to the documents listed below to qualify. All required documentation for all members residing in your household is needed to begin processing your applications.

• A current Louisiana driver’s license or Louisiana identification card
   
• An official U.S. passport or consular ID will be accepted with current proof of address
   
• Social Security Card for each household member or ITIN number
   
• Proof of income of all members in the household
  • Earned income wagers should bring the following:
    • The two (2) most recent consecutive check stubs for income 
    • Those who are unable to furnish the above will provide a Verification of Employment form (VOE) that their employer must complete.
       
  • Unearned income must also be provided:
    • Unearned income includes, but is not limited to, alimony, retirement benefits, worker’s compensation, supplemental security income, Social Security, etc.
    • Documentation of unearned income includes but not limited to award letters, annuity letters, court judgments, current bank statements (for proof of SSA/SSI ONLY), and food stamps printouts dated within 30 days of the application date.
       
• Proof of Address – A current utility bill (in your name) or any other your bills dated within the last 30 days.
   
• Food stamp certification letter/printout dated within 30 days of application date.

Additional information may be required for each program. Please see program eligibility requirements or contact your local community center for details.