Center for Senior Services
Please check these links for the latest up-to-date information regarding COVID-19:
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued vaccination toolkits for healthcare teams
and community administrators:
Vaccination Toolkits
The CDC has issued guidance for Federally-Assisted Housing:
Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 in Retirement Communities and Independent Living Facilities (Interim Guidance)
Considerations for Owners and Operators of Multifamily Housing Including Populations at Increased Risk for Complications from COVID-19
Department of Housing and Urban Development:
Q&A Questions and Answers for Office of Multifamily Housing Stakeholders
Guidance on COVID-19 from the US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living (ACL):
COVID-19 Guidance for Older Adults
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued vaccination toolkits for healthcare teams
and community administrators:
Vaccination Toolkits
The CDC has issued guidance for Federally-Assisted Housing:
Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 in Retirement Communities and Independent Living Facilities (Interim Guidance)
Considerations for Owners and Operators of Multifamily Housing Including Populations at Increased Risk for Complications from COVID-19
Department of Housing and Urban Development:
Q&A Questions and Answers for Office of Multifamily Housing Stakeholders
Guidance on COVID-19 from the US Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living (ACL):
COVID-19 Guidance for Older Adults
Our Mission Statement
The mission of B'nai B'rith Senior Housing is to provide seniors with quality, affordable housing in a secure, supportive community environment, without regard to religion, race or national origin in order to maximize their independent and dignified lifestyle.
Resident Resources
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For more help, check out WhatsApp FAQs:
https://faq.whatsapp.com/ |
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For more help, check out Zoom's free live-training video webinars:
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/360029527911 |
Latest CSS News
Three Seniors Issues Experts Talk About Older Adults and Technology
B'nai B'rith Welcomes Senator Bob Menendez's Dear Colleague Letter Advocating for $600 Million for New Construction
June 30, 2021
B’nai B’rith welcomes Senator Bob Menendez’s Dear Colleague letter on behalf of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) affordable senior housing community advocating for $600 million dollars for new construction. As the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income, nonsectarian housing for seniors in the United States, we are aware the critical role that affordable housing plays in the lives of older Americans.
As the letter states, “As HUD’s most recent Worst Case Housing Needs Report finds, 1.93 million very low-income elderly households are paying more than 50 percent of their income in rent.” Clearly, there is a need to build more HUD affordable housing for seniors that will help seniors “age in place” and pre-mature move to a more institutional setting.
Thanks, to Senator Menendez and the 32 other senators who signed onto the letter championing HUD senior housing. B’nai B’rith appreciates your support!
View the Dear Colleague letter here.
The mission of B'nai B'rith Senior Housing is to provide seniors with quality, affordable housing in a secure, supportive community environment, without regard to religion, race or national origin in order to maximize their independent and dignified lifestyle. The B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Network in the United States comprises 38 buildings in 16 states and serves more than 5,000 residents. Our long history with housing started in 1971 when we opened our first sponsored property in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
B’nai B’rith welcomes Senator Bob Menendez’s Dear Colleague letter on behalf of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) affordable senior housing community advocating for $600 million dollars for new construction. As the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income, nonsectarian housing for seniors in the United States, we are aware the critical role that affordable housing plays in the lives of older Americans.
As the letter states, “As HUD’s most recent Worst Case Housing Needs Report finds, 1.93 million very low-income elderly households are paying more than 50 percent of their income in rent.” Clearly, there is a need to build more HUD affordable housing for seniors that will help seniors “age in place” and pre-mature move to a more institutional setting.
Thanks, to Senator Menendez and the 32 other senators who signed onto the letter championing HUD senior housing. B’nai B’rith appreciates your support!
View the Dear Colleague letter here.
The mission of B'nai B'rith Senior Housing is to provide seniors with quality, affordable housing in a secure, supportive community environment, without regard to religion, race or national origin in order to maximize their independent and dignified lifestyle. The B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Network in the United States comprises 38 buildings in 16 states and serves more than 5,000 residents. Our long history with housing started in 1971 when we opened our first sponsored property in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
Rep. Sylvia Garcia Visits B'nai B'rith Senior Housing Community in Pasadena, Texas
June 10, 2021
U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas) visited B’nai B’rith’s Pasadena Interfaith Manor, a federally subsidized senior housing facility, on June 9. During the visit Garcia took a tour of the property, visiting the community room, library/network center, a model apartment unit and the “country store” operated by the building’s tenant council. She also spoke with staff members regarding how the building’s residents are rebounding from the pandemic and ways her office can help with constituent casework, specifically Medicare and Medicaid. In addition, the congresswoman’s office agreed to provide more masks for the building’s residents, if needed. Garcia has previously delivered masks for the building, and we appreciate her continued support.
Garcia said about the visit, “I was so pleased to visit with residents and staff at the Pasadena Interfaith Manor in my district for the Speaker of the House, Democratic Women’s Caucus and DPCC Joint Care Economy Week of Action. Our seniors have given our communities so much and they are the backbone of our families. I greatly appreciate the hard work of the care staff at the Pasadena Interfaith Manor, and this visit was an insightful opportunity for me to learn more about how I can keep advocating on their behalf in Congress.”
Attending the event on behalf of the building were manager Mike Garcia (no relation), assistant manager Vicky Chacon and lead maintenance staff member Rene Ballesteros.
Mike Garcia said, “I want to thank Rep. Garcia for visiting and taking a tour of the building. Rep. Garcia throughout the pandemic has been supportive of our building and residents. We appreciate having our elected representative check in with us on a regular basis to see how her office can be helpful. She has been a tremendous friend of affordable housing for seniors and we are thankful.”
The B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Network in the United States comprises 38 buildings in 16 states and serves more than 5,000 residents. Our long history with housing started in 1971 when we formed a partnership with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to sponsor housing for seniors of limited means without regard to race, religion or sexual orientation.
U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas) visited B’nai B’rith’s Pasadena Interfaith Manor, a federally subsidized senior housing facility, on June 9. During the visit Garcia took a tour of the property, visiting the community room, library/network center, a model apartment unit and the “country store” operated by the building’s tenant council. She also spoke with staff members regarding how the building’s residents are rebounding from the pandemic and ways her office can help with constituent casework, specifically Medicare and Medicaid. In addition, the congresswoman’s office agreed to provide more masks for the building’s residents, if needed. Garcia has previously delivered masks for the building, and we appreciate her continued support.
Garcia said about the visit, “I was so pleased to visit with residents and staff at the Pasadena Interfaith Manor in my district for the Speaker of the House, Democratic Women’s Caucus and DPCC Joint Care Economy Week of Action. Our seniors have given our communities so much and they are the backbone of our families. I greatly appreciate the hard work of the care staff at the Pasadena Interfaith Manor, and this visit was an insightful opportunity for me to learn more about how I can keep advocating on their behalf in Congress.”
Attending the event on behalf of the building were manager Mike Garcia (no relation), assistant manager Vicky Chacon and lead maintenance staff member Rene Ballesteros.
Mike Garcia said, “I want to thank Rep. Garcia for visiting and taking a tour of the building. Rep. Garcia throughout the pandemic has been supportive of our building and residents. We appreciate having our elected representative check in with us on a regular basis to see how her office can be helpful. She has been a tremendous friend of affordable housing for seniors and we are thankful.”
The B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Network in the United States comprises 38 buildings in 16 states and serves more than 5,000 residents. Our long history with housing started in 1971 when we formed a partnership with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to sponsor housing for seniors of limited means without regard to race, religion or sexual orientation.
How to Prepare for Emergencies | Lessons Learned from a
Natural Disaster During COVID-19
Natural Disaster During COVID-19
Managers Tiffany Fittsgill and Mike Garcia share their guidance and discuss lessons learned following the snow and ice storm that struck Texas in February 2021. They talk about why it’s vital to acquire back-up generators before they are actually needed, the need to create a manual for cross-training staff and more! Learn how the B’nai B’rith Center for Senior Services (CSS) and Center for Community Action (CCA) provide aid during disasters, as well.
Guests:
• Tiffany Fittsgill, CPO, COS, CMH, Property Manager of Tarrant County B'nai B'rith Apartments/Mollie & Max Barnett Apartments, Fort Worth Texas
• Mike Garcia, Community Manager, Pasadena Interfaith Manor, Pasadena, Texas
• Rhonda Love, B’nai B’rith’s Vice President of Programming and Director, Center for Community Action
Moderator:
• Janel Doughten, Associate Director, B’nai B’rith’s Center for Seniors Services
Guests:
• Tiffany Fittsgill, CPO, COS, CMH, Property Manager of Tarrant County B'nai B'rith Apartments/Mollie & Max Barnett Apartments, Fort Worth Texas
• Mike Garcia, Community Manager, Pasadena Interfaith Manor, Pasadena, Texas
• Rhonda Love, B’nai B’rith’s Vice President of Programming and Director, Center for Community Action
Moderator:
• Janel Doughten, Associate Director, B’nai B’rith’s Center for Seniors Services
B’nai B’rith Senior Housing 2021 Virtual Training: Recap
March 22, 2021
By Gracie Cohen
While the Center for Senior Services (CSS) facilitates two annual in-person conferences (albeit virtually during the pandemic!), the team sought an opportunity to bring board members and on-site management professionals together again in this virtual conference. CSS will continue to host in-person conferences post-pandemic and is thrilled to introduce this new virtual conference on a yearly basis.
Many new protocols and considerations are now taking place in senior affordable housing due to the ongoing changes in our world living in the pandemic. Bringing the B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Network together on Zoom allowed those involved in senior housing to share best practices and resources with each other, as well as learn from our in-house experts. About 70 participants joined the March 14-15, 2021 training.
On March 14, B’nai B’rith Senior Housing committee members throughout the U.S. convened to learn the latest federal updates from Evan Carmen, legislative director for aging policy, Center for Senior Services, and Janel Doughten, associate director, Center for Senior Services. Among the updates, CSS was pleased that the Fiscal Year 2021 legislation provided funding for senior housing and the capital advance program, but disappointed that money was not specifically appropriated for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) senior housing in the stimulus bills.
During the “How to Show Staff, Resident and Volunteer Appreciation During the Pandemic & Disasters” discussion, participants shed light on the significance of utilizing community partnerships and why holding weekly calls with management led to providing assistance for staff and residents. As a featured staple in all of our training meetings, the “Around the Network” was an opportunity for each board to update the group with their best practices. Sending notes with positive words, delivering goody bags door-to-door and checking in with residents were a few highlights from the discussion. The goal of this particular format was to help spark new ideas for board members, especially as residents and staff continue to endure living in a pandemic.
The March 15 joint session included board members and on-site professionals. Session topics ranged from emergency preparedness to activities to combat social isolation. Participants heard firsthand from Tiffany Fittsgill, CPO, COS, CMH, property manager, Tarrant County B'nai B'rith Apartments and Mollie & Max Barnett Apartments, Fort Worth, Texas and Mike Garcia, community manager, Pasadena Interfaith Manor, Pasadena, Texas, on their experience handling resident and building safety following the brutal Texas winter storm that brought freezing temperatures, power outages and broken pipes as the weather warmed up to 80 degrees in the span of a few days—all in the midst of COVID-19. One of the benefits of the Senior Housing network is that members, no matter their location or building size, can learn from each other to prepare for emergencies. Key lessons from Tiffany and Mike included:
One major takeaway: Always check state and local regulations and consult counsel before implementing major policies that affect the residents and/or building staff.
"The feedback from my board members was that they got a lot pertinent information out of the sessions. I met with our manager, and we are already implementing some of the emergency preparedness ideas. The 70 minds combined in this training, and CSS expertise, really benefits each board and staff member to provide the best care possible for the residents,” said Dennis Rice, co-chair of the B'nai B'rith Housing Committee and B’nai B’rith Apartments of Deerfield Beach, Florida.
For those who were not able to attend this virtual training or are looking to access the shared materials, please visit CSS’s Virtual Training page here, which includes previous training materials and videos.
By Gracie Cohen
While the Center for Senior Services (CSS) facilitates two annual in-person conferences (albeit virtually during the pandemic!), the team sought an opportunity to bring board members and on-site management professionals together again in this virtual conference. CSS will continue to host in-person conferences post-pandemic and is thrilled to introduce this new virtual conference on a yearly basis.
Many new protocols and considerations are now taking place in senior affordable housing due to the ongoing changes in our world living in the pandemic. Bringing the B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Network together on Zoom allowed those involved in senior housing to share best practices and resources with each other, as well as learn from our in-house experts. About 70 participants joined the March 14-15, 2021 training.
On March 14, B’nai B’rith Senior Housing committee members throughout the U.S. convened to learn the latest federal updates from Evan Carmen, legislative director for aging policy, Center for Senior Services, and Janel Doughten, associate director, Center for Senior Services. Among the updates, CSS was pleased that the Fiscal Year 2021 legislation provided funding for senior housing and the capital advance program, but disappointed that money was not specifically appropriated for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) senior housing in the stimulus bills.
During the “How to Show Staff, Resident and Volunteer Appreciation During the Pandemic & Disasters” discussion, participants shed light on the significance of utilizing community partnerships and why holding weekly calls with management led to providing assistance for staff and residents. As a featured staple in all of our training meetings, the “Around the Network” was an opportunity for each board to update the group with their best practices. Sending notes with positive words, delivering goody bags door-to-door and checking in with residents were a few highlights from the discussion. The goal of this particular format was to help spark new ideas for board members, especially as residents and staff continue to endure living in a pandemic.
The March 15 joint session included board members and on-site professionals. Session topics ranged from emergency preparedness to activities to combat social isolation. Participants heard firsthand from Tiffany Fittsgill, CPO, COS, CMH, property manager, Tarrant County B'nai B'rith Apartments and Mollie & Max Barnett Apartments, Fort Worth, Texas and Mike Garcia, community manager, Pasadena Interfaith Manor, Pasadena, Texas, on their experience handling resident and building safety following the brutal Texas winter storm that brought freezing temperatures, power outages and broken pipes as the weather warmed up to 80 degrees in the span of a few days—all in the midst of COVID-19. One of the benefits of the Senior Housing network is that members, no matter their location or building size, can learn from each other to prepare for emergencies. Key lessons from Tiffany and Mike included:
- Make sure residents have a buddy system, as some families were not able to get to their loved ones due to unsafe road conditions.
- Obtain a back-up generator to ensure power and heat.
- Prepare a manual for on-site staff to help as much as they can if maintenance or other professionals cannot get to the building.
One major takeaway: Always check state and local regulations and consult counsel before implementing major policies that affect the residents and/or building staff.
"The feedback from my board members was that they got a lot pertinent information out of the sessions. I met with our manager, and we are already implementing some of the emergency preparedness ideas. The 70 minds combined in this training, and CSS expertise, really benefits each board and staff member to provide the best care possible for the residents,” said Dennis Rice, co-chair of the B'nai B'rith Housing Committee and B’nai B’rith Apartments of Deerfield Beach, Florida.
For those who were not able to attend this virtual training or are looking to access the shared materials, please visit CSS’s Virtual Training page here, which includes previous training materials and videos.
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B'nai B'rith Housing Update from the Front Lines
Two dedicated service coordinators, Jennifer Leffler of B'nai B'rith Apartments in Allentown, Pennsylvania and Teresa Wachala of the B’nai B’rith Covenant House in Tucson, Arizona, talk with CEO Dan Mariaschin about their incredible work during the COVID-19 pandemic and the benefits of being part of the B’nai B’rith housing network. |
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Virtual 2020 Annual Housing Conference Recap
November 5, 2020
By Gracie Cohen
Every fall, B’nai B’rith Center for Senior Services (CSS) facilitates a 3-day training with the B’nai B’rith Senior Housing network board members and building management spanning our 36 properties. This year, despite planning for an in-person event, CSS held a virtual conference as we continue on through life with coronavirus safety and travel protocols. The virtual 2020 Annual Housing Conference took place October 18-20 via Zoom this year. Among other conference platform changes, we expanded the conference to include service coordinators.
The annual conference is a chance for Senior Housing network participants to convene and learn from each other, as well as experts in the affordable housing field. One highlight many participants enjoy is our case studies, which stem from real issues that have happened at the properties. Led by Janel Doughten, Associate Director of CSS, these case studies provide the opportunity to gain the perspectives of staff and board members alike on how to best handle resident issues. How should staff handle construction updates in their building, when residents express concern on COVID-19 transmission? What is the best plan of action to determine if COVID-19 testing for residents should or should not take place in the building?
Board members were updated on new HUD policies and COVID-19 protocols. While they were briefed on the latest CSS activities, they additionally received training on the significance of advocacy. As is the spirit of B’nai B’rith Senior Housing conferences, participants had a chance to share best practices and building updates during the “Around the Network” session.
Speakers this year included Robert Iber, Senior Advisor in the Office of Multifamily Housing Programs at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Kendra Kuehn, MSW, Research and Policy Associate, Health Benefits ABCs LLC , Alayna Waldrum, Consultant, Health Benefits ABCs, and one of B’nai B’rith guest speakers for many years now, Amanda Atkins, President, Atkins Consulting Professionals, as well as our own in-house experts Janel Doughten and Evan Carmen.
Topics ran the whole gamut of updates pertaining to COVID-19, including: clarifying eviction moratorium limitations, house rules and visitor policies, service coordination, preparing for potential pandemic shut downs, residents confronting each other, and more.
"The conference was very informative for me. We don't typically have direct access to a HUD contact in this way, where we can ask as many questions as we want to and gain clarity on new protocols. In a time where it is so dire to keep residents safe and healthy, I'm also glad the conference focused on COVID-19 best practices and discussions in each session," said Lisa Bryan, assistant manager of Deerfield Beach Apartments in Deerfield Beach, FL.”
By Gracie Cohen
Every fall, B’nai B’rith Center for Senior Services (CSS) facilitates a 3-day training with the B’nai B’rith Senior Housing network board members and building management spanning our 36 properties. This year, despite planning for an in-person event, CSS held a virtual conference as we continue on through life with coronavirus safety and travel protocols. The virtual 2020 Annual Housing Conference took place October 18-20 via Zoom this year. Among other conference platform changes, we expanded the conference to include service coordinators.
The annual conference is a chance for Senior Housing network participants to convene and learn from each other, as well as experts in the affordable housing field. One highlight many participants enjoy is our case studies, which stem from real issues that have happened at the properties. Led by Janel Doughten, Associate Director of CSS, these case studies provide the opportunity to gain the perspectives of staff and board members alike on how to best handle resident issues. How should staff handle construction updates in their building, when residents express concern on COVID-19 transmission? What is the best plan of action to determine if COVID-19 testing for residents should or should not take place in the building?
Board members were updated on new HUD policies and COVID-19 protocols. While they were briefed on the latest CSS activities, they additionally received training on the significance of advocacy. As is the spirit of B’nai B’rith Senior Housing conferences, participants had a chance to share best practices and building updates during the “Around the Network” session.
Speakers this year included Robert Iber, Senior Advisor in the Office of Multifamily Housing Programs at the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, Kendra Kuehn, MSW, Research and Policy Associate, Health Benefits ABCs LLC , Alayna Waldrum, Consultant, Health Benefits ABCs, and one of B’nai B’rith guest speakers for many years now, Amanda Atkins, President, Atkins Consulting Professionals, as well as our own in-house experts Janel Doughten and Evan Carmen.
Topics ran the whole gamut of updates pertaining to COVID-19, including: clarifying eviction moratorium limitations, house rules and visitor policies, service coordination, preparing for potential pandemic shut downs, residents confronting each other, and more.
"The conference was very informative for me. We don't typically have direct access to a HUD contact in this way, where we can ask as many questions as we want to and gain clarity on new protocols. In a time where it is so dire to keep residents safe and healthy, I'm also glad the conference focused on COVID-19 best practices and discussions in each session," said Lisa Bryan, assistant manager of Deerfield Beach Apartments in Deerfield Beach, FL.”
U.S. Rep. Garcia Donates Masks to Pasadena Interfaith Manor in Texas
September 14, 2020
Thank you to Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas) for donating masks to our sponsored HUD-assisted senior housing property Pasadena Interfaith Manor in Texas. As the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income, nonsectarian housing for seniors in the United States, we are aware of how vital supplies like facemasks are for seniors right now. Rep. Garcia’s donation will help the building ensure that its residents are kept safer and healthier throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Thank you to Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas) for donating masks to our sponsored HUD-assisted senior housing property Pasadena Interfaith Manor in Texas. As the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income, nonsectarian housing for seniors in the United States, we are aware of how vital supplies like facemasks are for seniors right now. Rep. Garcia’s donation will help the building ensure that its residents are kept safer and healthier throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
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B'nai B'rith Supports Emergency Housing Assistance Bill for Seniors
(Washington, D.C., July 2, 2020)--B’nai B’rith welcomes the introduction of a new Senate bill that would provide financial resources for senior housing in response to COVID-19.
The Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults Act of 2020, introduced by Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) will provide much needed resources to Housing and Urban Development (HUD) assisted senior housing.
“B’nai B’rith International, as the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income, nonsectarian housing for seniors in the United States, is uniquely aware of the need to allocate additional financial resources for HUD senior housing in response to the COVID-19 crisis,” said Mark Olshan, associate executive vice president of B’nai B’rith International and director of the B’nai B’rith International Center for Senior Services. “Consequently, we are pleased to support the Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults Act of 2020 introduced by Senator Robert Menendez. This legislation provides critical funding for senior properties to better meet challenges associated with the virus, including the ability to purchase more personal protective equipment, expand service coordination and WiFi accessibility. During a time of national crisis, we are thankful that Senator Menendez is leading the effort in the Senate to ensure that senior housing has the resources to combat the pandemic.”
“Given how vulnerable seniors are to the coronavirus, we call on Congress to quickly pass this legislation." said B’nai B’rith Legislative Director for Aging Policy Evan Carmen. “The legislation provides critical financial resources for the residents of HUD assisted senior housing that will ensure a safer environment for older Americans.”
Menendez represents three B’nai B’rith-sponsored senior housing facilities: South Orange B’nai B’rith Federation House, B’nai B’rith Chesilhurt House and B’nai B’rith Elmwood House.
“As the coronavirus pandemic continues to take its toll on our communities and families, it has had a relentless, devastating impact on our nation’s seniors, especially elderly Americans living in facilities that struggled with lack of protection, staff and resources,” Menendez said. “Congress has an obligation to help our most vulnerable during this crisis and that means making sure our federally-assisted senior housing facilities have the necessary resources to effectively protect and ensure residents remain safe, healthy and have access to key services during the COVID-19 crisis.”
B’nai B’rith would also like to acknowledge Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Dianne Feinstein (D-C.A.), Krysten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore). In addition, we would also like to thank Rep. Katie Porter (D-C.A.) and Financial Services Committee Chairwoman Maxine Waters (D-C.A.) for introducing the Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults Act of 2020 in the House last month.
These bills allocate $1.2 billion to senior housing, which will enable buildings to hire more staff, purchase more personal protective equipment (PPE) and deal with decreased revenue due to decreased rent payments caused by the pandemic-related lockdowns and economic crisis. In addition, this money helps advance service coordination, both for buildings that already have and those that do not yet have a service coordinator. A service coordinator is a social service staff person who connects residents with services in the community. This legislation provides $50 million in funding for increasing WiFi accessibility, a crucial service in an age of telehealth medicine. Better WiFi also would enable service coordinators to speak with building residents while practicing social distancing.
While the money in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) is already helping low-income seniors, the long-term and on-going virus threat requires further stimulus legislation. Therefore, we encourage Congress to pass the Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults Act of 2020 to ensure that senior housing has the appropriate resources to meet the challenges of the day.
The Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults Act of 2020, introduced by Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) will provide much needed resources to Housing and Urban Development (HUD) assisted senior housing.
“B’nai B’rith International, as the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income, nonsectarian housing for seniors in the United States, is uniquely aware of the need to allocate additional financial resources for HUD senior housing in response to the COVID-19 crisis,” said Mark Olshan, associate executive vice president of B’nai B’rith International and director of the B’nai B’rith International Center for Senior Services. “Consequently, we are pleased to support the Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults Act of 2020 introduced by Senator Robert Menendez. This legislation provides critical funding for senior properties to better meet challenges associated with the virus, including the ability to purchase more personal protective equipment, expand service coordination and WiFi accessibility. During a time of national crisis, we are thankful that Senator Menendez is leading the effort in the Senate to ensure that senior housing has the resources to combat the pandemic.”
“Given how vulnerable seniors are to the coronavirus, we call on Congress to quickly pass this legislation." said B’nai B’rith Legislative Director for Aging Policy Evan Carmen. “The legislation provides critical financial resources for the residents of HUD assisted senior housing that will ensure a safer environment for older Americans.”
Menendez represents three B’nai B’rith-sponsored senior housing facilities: South Orange B’nai B’rith Federation House, B’nai B’rith Chesilhurt House and B’nai B’rith Elmwood House.
“As the coronavirus pandemic continues to take its toll on our communities and families, it has had a relentless, devastating impact on our nation’s seniors, especially elderly Americans living in facilities that struggled with lack of protection, staff and resources,” Menendez said. “Congress has an obligation to help our most vulnerable during this crisis and that means making sure our federally-assisted senior housing facilities have the necessary resources to effectively protect and ensure residents remain safe, healthy and have access to key services during the COVID-19 crisis.”
B’nai B’rith would also like to acknowledge Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Dianne Feinstein (D-C.A.), Krysten Sinema (D-Ariz.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore). In addition, we would also like to thank Rep. Katie Porter (D-C.A.) and Financial Services Committee Chairwoman Maxine Waters (D-C.A.) for introducing the Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults Act of 2020 in the House last month.
These bills allocate $1.2 billion to senior housing, which will enable buildings to hire more staff, purchase more personal protective equipment (PPE) and deal with decreased revenue due to decreased rent payments caused by the pandemic-related lockdowns and economic crisis. In addition, this money helps advance service coordination, both for buildings that already have and those that do not yet have a service coordinator. A service coordinator is a social service staff person who connects residents with services in the community. This legislation provides $50 million in funding for increasing WiFi accessibility, a crucial service in an age of telehealth medicine. Better WiFi also would enable service coordinators to speak with building residents while practicing social distancing.
While the money in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) is already helping low-income seniors, the long-term and on-going virus threat requires further stimulus legislation. Therefore, we encourage Congress to pass the Emergency Housing Assistance for Older Adults Act of 2020 to ensure that senior housing has the appropriate resources to meet the challenges of the day.
More CSS NewsB’nai B’rith Urges Further Action for Seniors Amid COVID-19 Pandemic4/7/20
We commended the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which is providing assistance for low-income senior housing. With the COVID-19 virus still bearing down on the country, B’nai B’rith is calling on Congress to pass another bipartisan stimulus package that provides funding for Section 202 affordable housing for seniors. As the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income, nonsectarian housing for seniors in the United States, B’nai B’rith is uniquely aware of the need to appropriate additional financial resources for senior housing in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The additional money would potentially allow senior buildings to expand service coordination (which is especially important for buildings that lack a service coordinator: a social services staff person) and offer WiFi to all residents, which could make telemedicine more readily accessible. Funding could also provide the necessary resources for buildings to absorb additional expenses associated with extra staffing, cleaning supplies, personal protective equipment, security personnel and decreases in rents. The funding could enable our country to construct more Section 202 properties. As always, B’nai B’rith will continue to advocate to members of Congress on issues important to seniors. Lastly, we appreciate the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) decision to provide direct stimulus payments to all Social Security recipients regardless of whether they filed a tax return. We now call on the IRS to extend this guidance to Supplemental Security Income recipients (SSI). Forcing SSI recipients, to file a tax return is an unnecessary burden during a time of crisis. Given restrictions regarding travel and socialization, the IRS guidance places hardships on the very set of people who need the financial assistance the most. We should be looking to get financial assistance to SSI recipients as quickly as possible and not force them to jump needlessly through hoops. B’nai B’rith Center for Senior Services Supports Seniors During COVID-19 Outbreak3/24/20
As the COVID-19 outbreak shows no signs of letting up, staff members of the B’nai B’rith Center for Senior Services (CSS) are working tirelessly to support seniors at the local and national levels. In addition to providing assistance to the on-site staff and residents of our network of senior living facilities across the country, CSS is working with members of Congress to ensure that seniors are cared for during this uncertain time. B’nai B’rith is the largest national Jewish sponsor of low-income, nonsectarian housing for seniors in the United States. Members of the CSS staff are in constant contact with our housing network through frequent emails and weekly conference calls. To ensure that residents and building staff were knowledgeable of safety precautions, CSS facilitated a COVID-19 best practices session for the entire network and keeps the network abreast of the latest updates from the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention via email. We have reached out to congressional offices to advocate for more funding for the Section 202 program, which supports affordable housing for seniors, and for service coordinators, a critical part of that program. While it is impossible to predict the future, it is likely that administrative costs will go up for many Section 202 buildings. Adhering to public health guidelines and providing needed support for seniors can be expensive, especially if residents of a building enter quarantine. We hope and expect that Congress will realize the necessity of extra funds for the Section 202 program. |
CSS MediaU.S. Rep. Grace Meng on Seniors Issues During CoronavirusU.S. Rep. Grace Meng speaks with CEO Dan Mariaschin about how seniors in her Queens, New York district, including B'nai B'rith of Queens, one of our senior housing facilities, have been impacted by COVID-19.
Honoring the Wisdom of Our Elders with Tiffany Woolf and Noam DromiA conversation with Tiffany Woolf and Noam Dromi, co-creators of the digital series "Dispatches from Quarantine." Episodes focus on the life of older legends like Norman Lear, Ellyn Burstyn, Larry King and the late Carl Reiner. Woolf and Dromi speak about the inspiration for the series, important lessons from older people and why we need to continue celebrating our seniors even after the COVID-19 pandemic calms down.
Senior Housing on the Front LinesHost CEO Dan Mariaschin talks to Jeff Cottingham, the property manager for a company which oversees the Sam J. Stone B’nai B’rith Apartments in Peoria, Illinois. They talk about the challenges that the coronavirus has exacerbated in senior housing facilities, and how frontline staff members are coping as they assist the residents in these subsidized independent living facilities.
Coronavirus and SeniorsHost CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin talks with Associate Director for B’nai B’rith’s Center for Senior Services Janel Doughten about how our experts in seniors issues are guiding our housing community through the crisis.
Guiding Our Senior Housing Community Through CoronavirusHost Dan Mariaschin speaks with B'nai B'rith’s Center for Senior Services team to discuss how they are guiding our senior housing communities through the coronavirus crisis, emergency and disaster training for B’nai B’rith housing staff, and its efforts on Capitol Hill advocating for key stakeholders.
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PREVIOUS CSS WEBINARS
Fair Housing and Diversity AwarenessThe B'nai B'rith International Center for Senior Services (CSS) staff explores best practices in diversity awareness for subsidized senior housing.
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Learn About CSS & Section 202 HousingB’nai B’rith’s relationship with Section 202 housing started in 1971 when we formed a partnership with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to sponsor affordable housing for low-income seniors. The B’nai B’rith Senior Housing Network in the United States comprises 38 buildings and serves about 5,000 people. Watch to learn more about the history of Section 202 affordable housing, B’nai B’rith’s role with the program and helpful information regarding the Board of Directors, staff members and residents of the buildings.
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Watch B'nai B'rith Housing Residents Speak About Their Experiences
CSS Staff on the B'nai B'rith International Podcast
Senior AdvocacyA Record of Leadership
Few contemporary issues are more critical than the aging of the population. Recognizing that senior citizens remain valued members of our community, B'nai B'rith has a leading role in senior services. B'nai B'rith International is a leader in the Jewish community’s approach to aging issues through the B'nai B'rith Center for Senior Services. With our first housing partnership with HUD launched in 1971, and with 38 buildings in 28 communities, we are the largest national Jewish sponsor of subsidized housing in the United States. Working with our members and supporters throughout the United States, our Senior Advocacy Initiative advances B'nai B'rith's agenda on a range of seniors' issues—including Social Security, Medicare, stem cell research, and funding for the aging services network and minimum wage—to policy makers in Washington, D.C., and across the country. We work directly with seniors through forums and programs on issues such as aging in place, healthcare for all, identity theft, and others. We also send out "Action Alerts" to let people know what is going on with legislation and how they can contact elected leaders quickly and easily. |
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Important Upcoming CSS Events
Virtual B'nai B'rith Senior Housing Management Professionals and
Service Coordinators Training: June 8-10, 2021
Virtual B'nai B'rith Conference on Senior Housing: October 2021
Service Coordinators Training: June 8-10, 2021
Virtual B'nai B'rith Conference on Senior Housing: October 2021
Our Issues. Our Perspectives.
B'nai B'rith works in Washington, D.C., to inform elected officials how seniors feel regarding various legislation, including these key issues:
Housing – For more than 40 years, B'nai B'rith has led in providing housing for low-income older adults. We are the largest national Jewish sponsor of subsidized housing for the elderly, and we continue to look for new ways to build new housing and preserve existing units.
Health Care and Medicare – Healthy aging cannot begin at 65 – it requires lifelong access to affordable health care without which older adults are more likely to have multiple chronic (and expensive) health problems. B’nai B’rith actively supports responsible efforts to expand access. B’nai B’rith supports the Medicare program that currently covers those who are 65+ as well as millions of disabled adults. We support changes that are good for beneficiaries and for the program’s sustainability.
Housing – For more than 40 years, B'nai B'rith has led in providing housing for low-income older adults. We are the largest national Jewish sponsor of subsidized housing for the elderly, and we continue to look for new ways to build new housing and preserve existing units.
Health Care and Medicare – Healthy aging cannot begin at 65 – it requires lifelong access to affordable health care without which older adults are more likely to have multiple chronic (and expensive) health problems. B’nai B’rith actively supports responsible efforts to expand access. B’nai B’rith supports the Medicare program that currently covers those who are 65+ as well as millions of disabled adults. We support changes that are good for beneficiaries and for the program’s sustainability.
Social Security – B'nai B'rith International supports maintaining and strengthening the Social Security system as a social insurance program and we believe it is important to help older Americans safeguard their retirement savings.
B’nai B’rith has long believed that both Social Security and Medicare must be carefully examined in order to strengthen them as the social safety nets they have been for more than 70 years. As a leading provider of housing for seniors with nearly 38 properties in more than 28 communities around the world, B’nai B’rith has developed an expertise in senior services.
B’nai B’rith has long believed that both Social Security and Medicare must be carefully examined in order to strengthen them as the social safety nets they have been for more than 70 years. As a leading provider of housing for seniors with nearly 38 properties in more than 28 communities around the world, B’nai B’rith has developed an expertise in senior services.
B'nai B'rith International Conference on Senior Housing in Fort Worth, Texas
Sep. 21-24, 2019
Versatile and Thought-Provoking Training for Management and Board Members: 2019 Conference on Senior Housing Recap
By Gracie Cohen
The B’nai B’rith International Conference on Senior Housing took place from Sept. 21 to Sept.24 in Fort Worth, Texas. This conference brought together on-site building managers and staff, board presidents, members of boards of directors and management agents of the Center for Senior Services network of senior housing.
In addition to the meeting, participants received an invitation to attend the Isadore Garsek Lodge of B’nai B’rith 2019 Jewish Person of the Year Dinner. Charles O Kaufman, president of B’nai B’rith International, gave the keynote address.
Participants were engaged in all of the sessions spanning the four-day training. One of the sessions, “Role of Boards and Management in Problem Solving,” sparked dialogue between management and board members while problem-solving difficult case studies. What is one to do when a resident addresses building concerns to a board member in his or her place of worship? Or when a staff member offers to drive a resident to an appointment? Case studies led to participants engaging with one other and seeking appropriate solutions to these real-life issues many face in their day-to-day lives.
Featured presenters included Jessie Villarreal, branch chief, U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Fort Worth Multifamily Asset Management Division, who provided a HUD update; Nancy McIlhaney, director of compliance for Southwest Housing Compliance Corporation based in Austin, Texas, who shed light on HUD 101 for the Board of Directors; and Jaime Cobb, vice president of dementia and caregiver education at the James L. West Center for Dementia Care in Fort Worth, Texas, who spoke on how to understand signs of dementia and how to best support and communicate with residents living with dementia.
The conference was hosted by the board of directors and staff of the Mollie and Max Barnett Apartments/Tarrant County B’nai B’rith Apartments in Fort Worth, Texas. Participants were given a great tour of the residences, followed by a visit to Fort Worth’s historic Stockyards district. There, the board of directors hosted conference participants at Joe T. Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant. We even had a special guest appearance by a local high school’s mariachi band.
A big thank you to the board and staff of the Mollie and Max Barnett Apartments/Tarrant County B’nai B’rith Apartments for all their hard work helping to put together a fantastic meeting!
By Gracie Cohen
The B’nai B’rith International Conference on Senior Housing took place from Sept. 21 to Sept.24 in Fort Worth, Texas. This conference brought together on-site building managers and staff, board presidents, members of boards of directors and management agents of the Center for Senior Services network of senior housing.
In addition to the meeting, participants received an invitation to attend the Isadore Garsek Lodge of B’nai B’rith 2019 Jewish Person of the Year Dinner. Charles O Kaufman, president of B’nai B’rith International, gave the keynote address.
Participants were engaged in all of the sessions spanning the four-day training. One of the sessions, “Role of Boards and Management in Problem Solving,” sparked dialogue between management and board members while problem-solving difficult case studies. What is one to do when a resident addresses building concerns to a board member in his or her place of worship? Or when a staff member offers to drive a resident to an appointment? Case studies led to participants engaging with one other and seeking appropriate solutions to these real-life issues many face in their day-to-day lives.
Featured presenters included Jessie Villarreal, branch chief, U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Fort Worth Multifamily Asset Management Division, who provided a HUD update; Nancy McIlhaney, director of compliance for Southwest Housing Compliance Corporation based in Austin, Texas, who shed light on HUD 101 for the Board of Directors; and Jaime Cobb, vice president of dementia and caregiver education at the James L. West Center for Dementia Care in Fort Worth, Texas, who spoke on how to understand signs of dementia and how to best support and communicate with residents living with dementia.
The conference was hosted by the board of directors and staff of the Mollie and Max Barnett Apartments/Tarrant County B’nai B’rith Apartments in Fort Worth, Texas. Participants were given a great tour of the residences, followed by a visit to Fort Worth’s historic Stockyards district. There, the board of directors hosted conference participants at Joe T. Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant. We even had a special guest appearance by a local high school’s mariachi band.
A big thank you to the board and staff of the Mollie and Max Barnett Apartments/Tarrant County B’nai B’rith Apartments for all their hard work helping to put together a fantastic meeting!
See Photos from the Conference in Fort Worth:
See Photos from the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at Adelstein Family-Project H.O.P.E. B'nai B'rith House on August 22, 2019:
See Photos from Recent Congressional Visits to CSS Housing Locations:
Sen. Dianne Feinstein's Letter to Residents of B'nai B'rith Golden Years Senior Apartments
#SeniorHousingNOW 2019 RallyHUD Section 202 Rally at U.S. Capitol Features Seniors, Senators, House Member
B’nai B’rith International co-hosted a rally on Capitol Hill today to call attention to the need for more affordable senior housing. About 1,000 people attended the Senior Housing Now rally, which featured Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine; Missouri Rep. William Clay; California Rep. Katie Hill; and Florida Rep. Donna Shalala, along with residents of affordable housing for low-income seniors.
Photos from the 2019 #SeniorHousingNow Rally |
Watch:
2017 Photos from Senior Housing Residents Across the Country Rallying to #SaveHUD202 |
Our Experts, Analyzing the Issues
Senior Housing
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B'nai B'rith is the largest national Jewish sponsor of federally subsidized housing for the elderly in the United States.
The B'nai B'rith Senior Housing Network in the United States consists of 38 buildings in 28 communities, encompassing more than 4,000 apartment units and serving more than 5,000 people. The mission of B'nai B'rith Senior Housing is to provide seniors with quality, affordable housing in a secure, supportive community environment, without regard to religion, race or national origin in order to maximize their independent and dignified lifestyle. We launched our senior housing program in 1968, and since 1971, in a cooperative partnership with the Department of Housing and Urban Development, B'nai B'rith has made rental apartments available for senior citizens with limited incomes. B'nai B'rith senior housing is open to all qualified individuals as defined by HUD, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, handicap or national origin. |
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B'nai B'rith has also developed a variety of housing alternatives around the globe. The organization sponsors "parents' homes" in Australia, New Zealand, and Israel; senior citizens "flatlets" in England; an apartment building and a medical residence in Vancouver, British Columbia; and apartment buildings in Toronto. Although funded through their own national programs and tailored to meet the particular needs of the host country, these programs remain a vital component of the international B'nai B'rith Senior Housing Network.
Local B'nai B'rith volunteers and the senior service staff in the national office plan and complete all B'nai B'rith senior housing projects.
Local B'nai B'rith volunteers and the senior service staff in the national office plan and complete all B'nai B'rith senior housing projects.
U.S. Housing Locations |
Canadian Housing Locations |
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What is a B'nai B'rith building?
Quality Assurance
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What makes a "good" B'nai B'rith building?
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Blog - People Helping People: The Story Of
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Rep. Ted Deutch Visits Low-Income Seniors At B’nai B’rith Deerfield Beach Apartments“With approximately 10,000 Americans reaching retirement age each day and increases in life expectancy, the population of older Americans will double between 2012 and 2050. Congress must continue strong support for programs like Section 202 to ensure that high housing costs do not jeopardize a safe and secure retirement for hundreds of thousands of seniors. It was a pleasure to meet with the residents, board members, and staff of B’nai B’rith to see how federal investments in affordable housing help maintain quality of life and independence for South Florida seniors. Every American deserves to retire with dignity. Organizations like B’nai B’rith make that possible." |
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Contact Us
For more information on the subsidized senior housing program, please email seniors@bnaibrith.org.
