Tax Refunds for Area Neighbors!
by Doug Cowan, President & CEO
Thanks for reading this month's edition of  Neighborhood News! We've tried to highlight a number of helpful resources that we hope you'll take advantage of, but before we share those I want to report on the success of the recent tax season. This year, CSL staff and volunteers filed 294 tax returns, saving neighbors approximately $51,744 in service fees (National Society of Accounts estimates simple IRS From 1040 and state return is $176). Neighbors that took advantage of this service received $222,000 in federal refunds and more than $67,000 in state refunds! 

We are already gearing up for next year's tax season so be on the lookout for more information! Don't forget to tell us about major milestones you're achieving so we can celebrate with you too!

 Our goal is to help you connect with resources, programs and opportunities that make a meaningful difference in your life. All of this is designed for you, our neighbor, so that you can maximize your relationship with Community Services League. We look forward to serving you!  
Credit Building To-Do List
Credit is a powerful tool that can help you save thousands of dollars over a lifetime. Having poor credit, or not monitoring your credit, can cost you thousands of dollars. CSL's Financial Coaching Team  want to help you reach your credit goals. Here are some Credit Tips :
  • DO know the power of credit. By using credit wisely, you can build a good credit history which makes it easier to get loans with low interest rates, rent an apartment, purchase a car or home, and may even help you get a job.
  • DO start small. When establishing credit, go to your local bank for a small loan or low credit limit.
  • DO shop around. Prescreened offers or pre-approved offers are based on information in your credit report. Do your own research and don't select the first card you're offered. DO put your full legal name on all applications and be consistent. Don't leave out middle initials or suffixes like "Jr."
  • DO understand the Annual Percentage Rate or APR. Simply put, APR is the interest rate or the measure of cost for credit.
  • DO open your bills immediately and compare charges with receipts. This helps protect you from identity theft and unauthorized charges.
  • DO keep your credit card in a secure place. Only carry the cards that you think you'll use. Always have your creditor's phone number available in case your card is lost or stolen.
  • DO contact your financial coach.We can help you find out what you are DOING right and other tips for building credit.

Thanks to www.moneysmartkc.org for the tips! Visit their website for more Credit Tips!
Tell us how can we help you achieve your goals
Sign Up Today!
 How to Live on a Small Income
 This class gives you over 100 suggestions on how to use community resources, and tips on how to save money.
 Every Wednesday at 1:15pm
at  CSL's Noland Road Location No reservation required.

 Credit 101
Understand the basics of credit and learn how to apply this knowledge.
Friday, May 18, 2018 from 9:30am-11am at  CSL's Noland Road Location
Wednesday, May 16, 2018 from 1pm-2:30pm at CSL's Hawthorne Place Location
 Click here to register  or contact Pat at 816-221-2734 x104.

Power Over Debt
Learn how to break the debt cycle
Friday, June 1, 2018 from 9:30am-11am at CSL's Noland Road Location
Wednesday, May 23, 2018 from 1pm-2:30pm at CSL's Hawthorne Place Location
Click here to register or contact Pat at 816-221-2734 x104.
CSL Partners with KC's Medicine Cabinet
 Kansas City's Medicine Cabinet provides help to low-income, under-insured, and uninsured metro-area residents. If you're facing a medical emergency, the Medicine Cabinet may be able to assist you. They provide emergency dental care, diabetic supplies, durable medical equipment (including hearing aids), prescriptions (no controlled substances), and vision care/eye glasses! Click here to see if you qualify or stop in and inquire at one of our CSL locations.
Need Help Getting Back to Work? Our team of Employment Specialists can help! Whether you need support revising/drafting a resume, connecting to job fairs, practicing interview skills or simply connecting with job leads, CSL's team stands ready to help. CSL also has a computer lab and a professional clothing closet. Call 816-912-4495 or email today to schedule an appointment!
Find a CSL Pantry Near You! 
C SL operates  seven food pantries in Eastern Jackson County .  In order to receive services, you MUST come into the office.  Are you wondering what to bring with you when you come? Click here to learn more about  eligibility and resources .
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Noland Road  Office is open  Monday through  Friday. Office hours are 8am-11:45am and 1pm-3pm every day except for Wednesdays. Wednesdays the pantry is open from  1pm-4:30pm

 39th Street Office is open Wednesdays from 9am-3pm

 Fairmount Office is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am-11am and 1pm-3pm

 Blue Springs Office is open Monday and Wednesday from 9am-Noon and 1pm-4pm, and Fridays from 9am-Noon

 Buckner Office is open on Wednesdays from 8am-Noon

 Grain Valley Office is open on Wednesdays from 9am-Noon and 1pm-4pm

 Oak Grove Office is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am-Noon and 1pm-4pm

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