JOLIET – The Will County Center for Community Concerns (WCCCC) is open for business, said Kris White, executive director. Applications are still being processed online or by telephone instead of in-person appointments.
“Now more than ever, people are turning to our agency for assistance,” White said. “We have an obligation to deliver these important services in a manner that is both safe and convenient to both our customers and our staff.”
White said the agency closed its doors to public visits on March 16 in accordance with the executive order issued by Governor Pritzker. The staff has a limited number of employees in the office each day as well as working remotely. She said the agency’s staff has done an exceptional job in continuing to offer essential services to its customers virtually instead of face to face.
“We are able to offer housing counseling, applications for LIHEAP (low income home energy assistance program), and our other programs over the phone and online,” she said. “Fortunately, many people have a Smartphone which has helped us continue to serve our customers.”
According to White, the State of Illinois has streamlined the process to apply for programs. Applicants are also able to take a photo of their documents with a Smartphone and send it to the agency by text or email.
“This has helped us serve more people and get them the help they need much quicker in this crisis. We are all working together to help our customers.”
Thanks to a recently revamped telephone system, customers who call the main telephone number can be directed virtually to a counselor’s cell phone, who is working remotely, without any disruption. The WCCCC is also able to help people file income tax returns.
“This crisis has changed the way we offer our services but I am proud our employees are doing whatever is necessary to help our customers,” White added. “No one knows when this crisis will end nor how long people will be affected by its impact. We are here to help anyone who needs it during this extremely unique time.”
Although not a county agency, the WCCCC works closely with county officials to provide important social services for its residents. For more information about the WCCCC and its services, call (815) 722-0722 or visit the website: www.wcccc.net.
