Our FAQ

Q. May I speak with Margaret?

No, you can't. The name of the agency is MARGERT, and while there's nobody here by that name, we do have intake workers and counselors standing by to assist you.

Q. What is Margert?

Margert Community Corporation is the community-based, nonprofit housing agency founded by the local Roman Catholic churches in Far Rockaway: St. Mary, Star of the Sea ("MAR") and St. Gertrude the Great ("GERT").

Q. What does your agency do?

Margert engages in neighborhood preservation activities that include residential energy efficiency upgrades ("weatherization"), housing rehabilitation and development, housing counseling and education, social service and housing assistance.

Q. What services does your agency provide?

We provide a wide range of government-funded housing services, primarily designed to assist low-income tenants and homeowners, the elderly and persons with disabilities.

Q. What neighborhoods does your agency serve?

Service areas vary by program. While our primary service area is Far Rockaway, Margert may provide specific program services to all of Queens County and the entire NYC Metro Area.

Q. Must I meet income eligibility requirements to apply for service?

No, anyone may apply for service. However, most assistance programs will require income eligibility and/or severe financial distress. However, some services (for example, first time homebuyer education) are available to everyone, regardless of income.

Q. Can you help me find an apartment?

Finding a safe, decent and affordable apartment in this city is probably the most difficult task any of us face. Our staff is experienced and knowledgeable in this area, and, depending upon your situation, they may be able to help you.

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Q. Are there any fees charged for services provided by Margert?

No. Margert does not charge fees for services provided to eligible individuals and families. However, clients may be responsible for third-party fees (for example, credit checks), co-pays (for example, to qualify for a utility arrearage grant) and multi-family building owner investments for large weatherization projects.

Q. Does Margert provide any direct grants to help pay rent or mortgage arrears?

No. Margert does not provide any assistance in the form of direct cash payments. However, our experienced counseling staff may be able to assist you in applying for other forms of assistance (for example, FEMA, Project Warmth, TANF, etc.).

Q. Does Margert provide any direct loans to individuals, families or businesses?

No. Margert is not directly involved with any type of loan programs. Once again, however, our experienced counseling staff may be able to assist you in applying for available loan programs.

Q. Who pays Margert for the services they provide to our communities?

Margert is funded by the city, state and federal government as a community-based, nonprofit, charitable agency to provide housing assistance through various programs. Our staff is constantly assessing and documenting need within our communities, identifying government programs and initiatives to address those needs, preparing and submitting applications and proposals for funding, and administering programs as they are awarded.

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