JEFFCAP COMMUNITY CENTERS

OVERVIEW

The JeffCAP Community Centers offer community-based programs and services that embodied a “wrap around” model used to strengthen families and improve communities. By strengthening the emphasis on employment and promoting personal responsibility, we believe that families can and will move out of poverty and reach a level of 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. 

Employment Services — Customers are assisted with Job Searches, Job Readiness Training, Basic Resume Preparation, Youth Summer Employment, Job Application Assistance (at select centers), Employment Referrals, Employment Supportive Services (see CSBG), and Jefferson Council on Aging Senior Employment Referrals.

Education Services – Assistance with obtaining skills/competencies for employment, Education Supportive Services (see CSBG), assistance with completing ABE/GED, and obtaining certificate or diploma. 

Food Distribution – Through a partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank, JeffCAP can provide 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 rental/ mortgage assistance (when available); First-Time Homebuyers Program, Financial Fitness Training, and Reverse Mortgage Counseling (to seniors that are 62 years or older). (see Housing Counseling)

Volunteer Income Tax Preparation – JeffCAP offers free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals (Service offered seasonally and at select locations). 

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 - Prescription Drug Discount Program, SNAP, Basic Budgeting Classes, Voter Registration, Adult Computer Literacy Classes (at select locations).

Emergency Services - - LIHEAP Energy Assistance Program (see LIHEAP), SHFB/Food Pantry Program, Donated Goods/Services, Homeless Assistance Referrals, CSBG Rent/Mortgage Assistance.

Health Services – JeffCAP offers referrals to obtain health care services; Medicaid/Medicare application assistance; and Referrals for Medical or Dental Screening.

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

Senior Services - Senior Social Activities, Council on Aging– Employment Program Work Stations.

Community Organization – Community Health Fairs, Night Out Against Crime events, Community/ Civic Meetings, Senior Groups, and Job Fairs. 

Event Venues - Our Community Centers regularly host recreational, senior, youth development, and civic association meetings. Also, citizens may rent our facilities for nominal fees.

Volunteer/Internship Opportunities - Our Community Centers assist organizations within Jefferson Parish to include 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

The JeffCAP Community Centers offer various services to Jefferson Parish residents. Many programs and services require the same documentation, so it is best to make sure you have access to the documentation listed below to qualify. All documentation is needed to process your applications. These documents are required for all members residing in your household.

• A current Louisiana driver’s license or Louisiana identification card
   
• Social Security Card for each household member
   
• Proof of income of all members in the household
  • Earned income wagers should bring the following:
    • Last four (4) 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 fill out.
       
  • 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.