This new location will also provide an array of employment services, including resume preparation, job assistance services and job placements. In addition, screening for Illinois Public Benefits is provided. Through this screening, eligibility for public benefits is determined, applications for the appropriate programs are generated and assistance is provided in filing the applications.

Get ready for homeownership! Many renters don't realize that it's possible for them to purchase a home. GSDC connects people with the information and resources they need to become first-time home buyers. Our Housing Counseling Division offers educational classes, individual counseling, and access to flexible mortgage products to successfully navigate the home buying process.

• First-Time Homebuyer Classes. Knowledge builds successful homeownership! First-Time Homebuyer Classes help homebuyers learn about budgeting, saving, credit reports, house hunting, working with real estate agents, applying for a mortgage, the closing process, and basic home maintenance.
• Individual Counseling. Need more personalized help? GSDC's knowledgeable staff helps homebuyers evaluate their mortgage readiness, establish alternative credit, learn to budget and manage money, repair credit, search for a home, compare mortgage products, and much more.
• Flexible Mortgage Products. Through GSDC's partnership with Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago, graduates of First-Time Homebuyer Classes can apply for mortgage products with flexible terms that can make purchasing a home easier. We also provide information on a variety of first time homebuyer mortgage products available through numerous financial institutions.

Please email Cynthia Perales, Administrative Program Assistant, or call her at 773-735-6727 for more information or to sign up for the next First-Time Homebuyer Class.

Anyone can run into financial difficulties - medical expenses, job loss, unexpected major home repairs. Homeowners who are having trouble making their mortgage payments should seek assistance quickly since that can make the difference between keeping and losing their home.

This intensive one-on-one counseling provides a thorough analysis of you current situation to assist you in determining the options available. Our goal is to work with you and your mortgage company to try and get you back on track and help you stay in your home.

Please email Petra Villazana, Counseling Services Manager, or call her at 773-735-6727 for more information.

GSDC's Housing Resource Center (HRC) is the "one-stop" source for residents who want to learn more about improving their homes and their community. The HRC offers:

• homeowner workshops
• individual counseling to help homeowners evaluate and select their best refinancing option
• information on property tax exemptions
• information on homeowner city programs

HRC services are offered to all residents living within the following boundaries: (Click here for a map)

• California Avenue (west)
• Bell Avenue (east)
• 55th Street (north)
• 64th Street (south)

Please email Livia Villarreal, Director of Counseling Services, or call her at 773-735-6727 for more information.

The H-RAIL program helps eligible homeowners 60 years of age and older with minor home repairs, such as improving weatherization, addressing health and safety issues, or increasing security. GSDC staff will perform minor repairs and make accessibility modifications for eligible seniors.

Services through the HRAIL program are available to residents of the 13th, 14th, 15th, 18th, 23rd Wards. (Click here for a map.)

To find out if you're eligible for H-RAIL, please click here.

Please email Jose Garcia, Residential Repair Crew, or call him at 773-436-1000 (Extension 105) for more information or to request an application

GSDC provides one-on-one counseling and group workshops on a variety of financial topics to assist residents in improving their finances. Areas covered include:

• budgeting
• credit
• banking, including checking and savings accounts
• investment and taxes

Please contact Cynthia Perales by email or by phone at 773-735-6727 (Extension 10) to schedule an appointment with a financial counselor.

Click the link above to learn more about GSDC's supportive and independent senior living apartments.