Here to Help

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a great place to live, work, learn and play.  Our citizens are hard working, our communities are caring and our businesses are industrious. But tough economic times can stretch resources to their limits, taking a toll on vulnerable Pennsylvanians and putting even more people at risk.

It is not clear, ultimately, how widespread or how long the current economic downturn will last.  It is clear, however, that Pennsylvanians will withstand this storm together.  From meeting basic needs for food and shelter to upgrading professional skills to find a new job in a high-demand industry, the commonwealth has a wide variety of programs to help people get through the tough times. 

Additional Resources

File for Unemployment
Learn about the program that provides temporary income to qualifying people who have lost jobs through no fault of their own. Learn more... 

Make Ends Meet
From help paying for child care, transportation, medical care, food and more, there are many programs throughout the commonwealth that may be able to help you. Learn more…

Help: Qualify & Apply Online
Many of the commonwealth’s assistance programs are included in an online database that helps you determine what you may qualify for and, in some instances, apply online, in privacy. Learn more…
 
Feed Your Family
If you do not have enough money to buy food for yourself and your family, you may be able to get a Pennsylvania ACCESS card – it looks and works like a debit card at the grocery store.  Learn more…

Heating Help
With a little knowledge and a little action, you can be protected from the cold and your heat can last all winter.  Financial help may be available as well. Learn more…

Utility Help
Find out what to do if you can’t afford your electric, gas, phone or water bill. Learn more…

Health Insurance
See if you or your children qualify for low- or no-cost health coverage. Learn more…

Job Search & Job Training 
Unemployment hasn’t hit Pennsylvania as hard as the rest of the nation yet, but the distressing fact is that some Pennsylvanians are losing their jobs.  The commonwealth can help link you with employers, find training, and more.  Learn more…
 
Mortgage Problems 
There are several options available to struggling homeowners.  If you’re behind on your mortgage you must take action.  The problem won’t go away.  Learn more…

Veterans’ Services
There are programs for families of active duty personnel, Persian Gulf veterans, older and disabled veterans, and many others.  Learn more…

Pay Less Taxes
See if you qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit or Pennsylvania’s tax relief or tax forgiveness programs.  Find out if you can have your taxes done for free by a trained volunteer who can help you claim specific credits.  Learn more…