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1. What does the Pennsylvania Link do?

The Pennsylvania Link is an Aging and Disability Resource Center. The Link assists consumers of all ages living with a disability, as well as consumers 60 years of age or older, with accessing social services and navigating through a sometimes complex human services system.

2. What is the difference between programs administered through Social Security: SSA, SSD and SSI?

SSA is the basic Social Security Benefit. People who qualify for this program have paid into the system by earning enough work credits through their lifetime and have reached full retirement age. People may opt to draw on their SSA benefit as early as age 62, but will receive a reduced benefit.

Social Security Disability, or SSD, is similar to the SSA benefit in that a person must pay into the system to earn enough work credits. However, due to a long term disability, the person is unable to continue to work. In order to obtain SSD a person must apply for the benefit through Social Security. Many people are declined the first time they request SSD and may appeal the decision. Although it is not required, consulting an attorney may improve the appeal success and timeliness.

SSI is Supplemental Security Income. This program is for people who are low income and are age 65 or older or are unable to work due to disability. To apply for this program, a person must contact Social Security. It is important to note that unlike SSA and SSD, where a person has paid into the program and the benefit is an entitlement, SSI is a program that has income and resource limitations and is not an entitlement. Failure to stay within the eligibility requirements will result in a reduction or termination from the program. Social Security Web Site

3. What is the difference between a subsidized housing complex and the Housing Choice Voucher/Section 8 program?

There are a number of housing complexes throughout the area which cater to specific populations of low to moderate income consumers. How each one is funded determines the population that the facility can serve and income limits for the facility. Some of these facilities also have subsidized rent. The subsidy is determined by a person’s income, less certain expenses. When a person resides in a facility offering a subsidy, the rent assistance will end when the person leaves the facility.

The Housing Choice Voucher program, commonly referred to as Section 8, offers a similar subsidy as the above mentioned subsidized housing complexes. However, a person is issued a Housing Choice Voucher under this program. That person must find a landlord in the community or a housing complex which is willing to accept the voucher. When a person with the Housing Choice Voucher wishes to move, they can take the voucher, and therefore the subsidy, with them.

For more information on either of these programs, contact the Cumberland County Housing and Redevelopment Authorities or the Cumberland Link. Cumberland County Housing Authority

4. Where can I get help with housekeeping?

Housekeeping is a big concern for many people, particularly those who experience physical limitations due to age or disability. However, if the only service a person needs is housekeeping, they will need to purchase the service through an independent agency providing in-home care or housekeeping.

If a person needs assistance with personal care, there may be resources available to help offset the costs associated with these services. There are two programs that may assist a person with personal care in the home:
For those 60 years of age or older, Cumberland County Aging and Community Services can provide a few hours per week for personal care services. There may be a co-pay for Options services.
The other possibility for getting services mentioned above is under the Medical Assistance Waiver program. There are Waiver programs designed for people who require Nursing Home Level of Care but opt to remain in the community. Contact the Link for more information on the various Waiver Programs. To enroll in a Waiver you must call the Independent Enrollment Broker at 1-877-550-4227.

5. Where can I get assistance with paying my utility bills?

There are various programs and agencies which can help with utility bills. Contact the Cumberland Link to determine which programs in your area can help.

6. Where can I get help with my finances?

Many people have issues with making ends meet financially. However, there are limited resources to help with providing funds directly to a consumer. Many times, the Link can help with determining programs for which a person may be eligible that might better use the money they have coming in. In some instances, however, a person may be better suited to speak with a program geared towards financial education or money management. Contact the Cumberland Link to see where you can access services to help with developing better financial plan.