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Social services

Help with benefits, senior support, referrals, and family needs close to home.

Ask about social services
Two people reviewing documents in a small office.

What the Center can help with

Social workers meet with visitors one-on-one to understand the situation and guide them to the right programs.

Whether a neighbor needs help with benefits, health coverage, or everyday paperwork, the service is designed to make the process simpler and less stressful.

Benefits and public-service enrollment

Senior and family support

Referrals to trusted local resources

Help understanding letters, forms, and requirements

What to bring

Bring these documents when available. The team can still help you sort out what is missing.

  • Photo ID and proof of address
  • Any benefit, utility, or medical letters and notices
  • Income or insurance information, if available
  • Questions, whether they feel big or small

Common ways staff help

The social-services team helps seniors and families move from confusing paperwork to clearer next steps.

  • SNAP, LIHEAP, Medicaid, Medicare, property tax, and rent rebate information
  • Translations, letters, and document completion
  • Referrals to aging services, transportation, and wellness checks
  • Utility assistance, food resources, legal referrals, and tenant referrals
  • Warm handoffs when a trusted partner is the better fit

When to visit

Social Services are available Tuesdays and Thursdays with experienced staff on site. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments help the team serve visitors faster.

If language support is needed, visitors should let the team know before or during the visit.

Stronger families, stronger community

Each year, the team helps hundreds of neighbors complete applications, secure benefits, and find the right resources at no cost.

Small wins add up: fewer missed deadlines, less stress, and more stability for seniors and families.

  • Friendly, judgment-free guidance
  • Clear next steps after every visit
  • Follow-ups and referrals when needed

Stories from neighbors

Thanks to the Center, I was able to find affordable housing and receive essential support as a new immigrant. The team was incredibly helpful and made me feel welcomed in my new home.
Jisoo Kim, community member

Questions people ask before they visit.

What kinds of benefits can the social-services team help with?

The team can help residents understand benefits and paperwork related to SNAP, LIHEAP, Medicaid, Medicare, property tax or rent rebates, utility assistance, food resources, and referrals to trusted local partners.

Can I come in if I only have a letter and do not know what it means?

Yes. Bring the letter, photo ID, proof of address, and any related notices. The service is designed for moments when paperwork is confusing and a neighbor needs help understanding the next step.

Are walk-ins available for social services?

The current service information says social services are available Tuesdays and Thursdays and that walk-ins are welcome. Calling ahead helps the team confirm timing and serve visitors faster.

What to expect

  • Tell the team what you are trying to solve.
  • Bring paperwork that explains the request or deadline.
  • You will leave with a clearer next step whenever possible.
(215) 276-8830socialservices@sohicenter.org6055 N. 5th St., Philadelphia, PA 19120

Tuesday and Thursday. Exact hours should be confirmed with the office.

Send this request to the team

Send a short note and the team will know which service page you came from.

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