Clarifi is combining cash with counseling to prevent more evictions in Philadelphia, which has seen 2,290+ filings in 2025 so far (through February).
Matthew didn’t know what to do or where to go.
The certified nursing assistant’s income had been temporarily reduced after one of his clients passed, and he subsequently fell behind on rent for his Northeast Philadelphia home of five years.
He got a notice from the City’s eviction diversion program, which landlords must participate in before seeking a legal eviction through court. Clarifi’s HUD-certified counselors are integral to the program, advocating for renters and working with landlords to reach a repayment plan or other agreement.
When people can’t make rent, they can’t plan for their futures. They fall behind. Matthew had already experienced homelessness about eight years ago. He’d slept outside for five months.
“I was just out there,” he said. “It was a mess. Even though it was a long time ago, I still remember it like it just happened.”
Now, the City notice hung over his head. So did an appointment with Clarifi.
By combining direct financial support with financial knowledge, Clarifi can help people address immediate challenges while increasing long-term financial capabilities.
Matthew “didn’t even know Clarifi was around” before he was referred to the Philly-based nonprofit, where he met Cynthia, his eviction diversion counselor. She walked him through the process, including potential repayment options.
“I felt comfortable talking to her,” Matthew said of Cynthia.
He also learned where to cut back on spending and how to budget better as well as save for emergencies, becoming more financially secure as he worked out a repayment plan with his landlord.
Through Clarifi’s partnership with TD Bank, Matthew was also eligible for a housing stabilization grant that he used to pay back his rent. Within one month of his first Clarifi appointment, he went from facing eviction—and possibly homelessness again—to staying in his home with Soshi, a ginger cat Matthew adopted from a client who could no longer care for him.
When people have access to capital now, they can overcome financial challenges sooner and make room for long-term planning: Matthew is still utilizing Clarifi’s services, now to improve his credit and financial standing for future goals.
“I definitely want to be a homeowner,” Matthew said. “That’s my next step.”