Family Guidance Center (FGC) is known for its wide array of programs for the entire family. It’s a non-profit social service agency offering outpatient mental health services, substance abuse treatment, financial counseling, housing counseling, family preservation services, and special education for children with behavioral disorders.
But there are also services that are specific to seniors.
“Many seniors aren’t aware of these programs,” explained Development Director Beth Hart. “For example, we have certified reverse mortgage counselors on staff to help those 65 and older see if a reverse mortgage is for them. Some seniors find it very helpful to get an additional income stream that a reverse mortgage provides.”
FGC can lend an assist with SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program), too. Counselors can help seniors navigate Medicare benefits so they can select the right plan. Enrollment and claims assistance also are available. Hart notes it is open enrollment time so seniors and their loved ones need to be thinking about coverage right now.
Helping seniors prevent homelessness is a key focus of Family Guidance Center’s programs for older adults. Through a grant from Mercer County, Family Guidance is providing case management for seniors with referrals from the CEASe Center. The CEASe Center handles locating shelter and related services, and the Family Guidance Center will add assistance in the areas of mental health issues and other support needs.
“All our general community services are open to seniors, as well,” Hart added. “We have offices in Hamilton, Ewing, Princeton, and Trenton. And we have bilingual staff who can serve the community in Spanish, too.”
Check this list for information about some of the programs noted:
• Reverse Mortgage Counseling (through FGC’s Consumer Credit Counseling Service): 609-586-2574.
• SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program and assistance for Medicare beneficiaries): 609-924-2098.
• CEASe Center, 509 Perry Street, in Trenton, 609-989-3722 (open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
• General information about Family Guidance Center: 609-586-0668 or www.fgccorp.org
Family Guidance Center Corporation, 1913 Nottingham Way, Hamilton. 609-586-0668. Fax: 609-586-4759. www.fgccorp.org.
