Senate President Malcolm A. Smith Helps Constituents Manage Finances in Hard Economic Times

In light of the State’s tough economic crisis, Senate President Malcolm A. Smith hosted a seminar to helps his constituents better manage their finances.

“Times are tough right now but I wanted my constituents to know that there are resources available to help them stay on top of their finances. I want my constituents to be able to dig themselves out of debt and into financial freedom,” said Senator Smith.

 The seminar was entitled Survival Strategies: Managing Your finances in Hard Times. The program focused on the importance of having the right resources and strategies to navigate the current economic climate.

 New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli said: “Senator Smith has a strong commitment to help his community manage their finances during the current economic climate. Events like this are invaluable in helping people get out of debt and build strong financial futures. My office's Your Money New York is an invaluable tool to help New York families achieve in that goal.”

 Cindy Katz, Director, Low income Taxpayer Clinic, Queens Legal Services Said: “Queens Legal Services appreciates Senator Smith’s effort to bring financial help to his community during these hard economic times. We also appreciate the opportunity to participate in these efforts to ease the community’s financial burdens.”

 Commissioner Jonathan Mintz, New York City Department of Consumer Affairs said: “We are pleased to join Senator Smith’s Financial Hardship Seminar to provide tax information and financial help to Jamaica residents. Our Office of Financial Empowerment provides free, professional financial counseling services year round at the City’s network of Financial Empowerment Centers. New Yorkers who want to take control of their finances should call 311 and ask for a Financial Empowerment Center in their neighborhood today.”