HACE is a Philadelphia-based nonprofit CDC offering free housing counseling, tax preparation, and community development services to low-to-moderate income residents in North Philadelphia since 1982.
Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks
HACE (Housing Association for Community Enterprise) was established in 1982 as a community development corporation focused on building equitable neighborhoods in Eastern North Philadelphia. The organization has evolved into a comprehensive community service provider addressing housing, economic development, and financial wellness for low-to-moderate income families and small business owners in the region.
HACE's primary service offerings include HUD-approved housing counseling, free tax preparation for qualifying households, and homeownership programs through their affiliated Good Lands Trust community land trust. The organization provides one-on-one counseling and educational workshops on budgeting, homeownership, and financial planning. Beyond direct financial services, HACE engages in community development through affordable housing preservation, commercial space development, small business support, and neighborhood revitalization projects.
What distinguishes HACE is its dual focus on financial counseling paired with community-level economic development. Rather than operating solely as a credit counselor, HACE integrates financial education with broader neighborhood stability initiatives—community gardens, affordable housing development, and small business growth. The organization's Good Lands Trust model specifically addresses displacement risk in gentrifying areas by making properties available to low-income homebuyers at affordable prices, with homes purchased through CLTs being ten times less likely to fall into foreclosure.
HACE operates as a legitimate 501(c)(3) nonprofit with demonstrated community presence and partnerships (Rebuilding Together Philadelphia, People's Budget Office, Smart Growth America). However, potential clients should note that services appear geographically limited to North Philadelphia/Fairhill neighborhoods, free tax preparation has income eligibility requirements, and the organization's primary strength lies in housing counseling rather than comprehensive credit repair or debt resolution services.
Yes. Hace is a registered company headquartered in 167 W Allegheny Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19140. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.
CreditDoc Diagnosis
HACE is best suited for low-to-moderate income residents in North Philadelphia seeking free housing counseling, tax preparation, and pathways to affordable homeownership through a community land trust model. The primary caveat is geographic limitation to Eastern North Philadelphia and a housing-focused mission rather than comprehensive credit repair, debt resolution, or credit building services.
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