Non-profit community organization providing free housing counseling, financial literacy, and foreclosure prevention services across Massachusetts, Maryland, Virginia, DC, and Puerto Rico.
Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks
Centro de Apoyo Familiar (CAF) was founded in 2006 in Lawrence, Massachusetts, as a response to the housing crisis, initially focusing on providing distressed homeowners with housing counseling services. The organization has since expanded significantly, establishing offices in Prince George's County, Maryland (2009), Virginia (2017), Washington DC (2020), and Puerto Rico (2024). CAF operates as a mission-driven non-profit dedicated to transforming communities through economic, social, and educational empowerment in collaboration with community and faith-based organizations.
CAF offers a comprehensive suite of free and low-cost services spanning housing, consumer finance, health, family support, and workforce development. Their housing and consumer services include foreclosure prevention counseling, homebuyer education programs, financial literacy training, rental counseling, credit counseling, and local consumer protection advocacy. Beyond housing, they provide environmental health initiatives, family strengthening and mental health programs, workforce skill development, digital literacy training, commercial driver's license training, and small business owner training.
The organization distinguishes itself through its deep community roots and multi-service approach that addresses interconnected barriers to financial stability. CAF explicitly states compliance with Executive Order 14168 and affirms that services are accessible to all individuals regardless of race, sex, social or economic status. Their work with faith-based organizations through the CAF Connectors Network and community garden initiatives demonstrates commitment to grassroots engagement and environmental justice.
CAF is a legitimate non-profit operating across multiple states with documented programs, staff leadership, and active community engagement. However, as a free-help organization, they do not provide credit repair, debt settlement, or personal lending services. Their value proposition centers on education, prevention, and community empowerment rather than direct financial transactions. Consumers seeking immediate debt relief or credit score improvement should look elsewhere; CAF is best suited for those seeking financial literacy, housing counseling, and long-term financial stability building.
Yes. Centro De Apoyo Familiar (Caf)-Va is a registered company headquartered in Woodbridge, VA. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Counseling available within 1-2 weeks of contact.
CreditDoc Diagnosis
CAF is best for residents in Massachusetts, Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, or Puerto Rico seeking free, non-profit financial counseling, housing education, or workforce development. Primary caveat: CAF provides educational services and prevention counseling only—they cannot repair credit, settle debt, or provide loans. Consumers needing active credit restoration or immediate debt relief should pursue specialized debt management services instead.
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