Center for Benefits and Services (Formerly PBRC)

CSS’ Center for Benefits and Services (CBS) addresses the need for removing barriers to employment for low-wage families and individuals living in New York City. The CBS includes services formerly delivered by three different units — PBRC, Social Services, and the Tenant Advocacy Project (TAP) and consolidated them under one umbrella.We accomplish this through providing comprehensive technical assistance to community based organizations, as well as direct services to families and individuals.

Through our technical assistance component we offer trainings and publications on public benefit programs and publicly subsidized housing to social service professionals serving low income families in New York City. One of the most popular publications, the PBRC Manual, is a comprehensive guide on over 70 benefit programs and services available to the low income population that is updated regularly.

Through our Services to Families and Individuals component, CBS provides information and assistance to families and individuals seeking help with accessing or maintaining public benefit programs and publicly subsidized housing. We also provide a variety of resources that may assist these families with achieving economic security.