Newark and state officials, representatives from Newark Now and dignitaries from Capital One Bank joined in Newark to unveil Newark Now's Financial Empowerment Center at 103 Bloomfield Ave. The "One-Stop-Shop," which debuted today, is designed to provide Newark residents with an array of free financial counseling and services that will assist them in achieving economic self-sufficiency. Thanks to a partnership between Newark Now and nonprofit SingleStop USA, the storefront facility will provide a variety of asset-building services, including matched savings accounts, free quality tax preparation services, one-on-one financial and legal counseling and access to life-changing benefits such as free health insurance and food stamps.

The addition of this initiative allows Newark Now to build on its existing services including Newark Now VITA, Refund Now, Individual Development Account, and other financial education programs.

Other free services include:

Benefits Screening: Obtain assistance in obtaining food charge cards and vouchers, child care assistance, tax credits and health care.

On-Site Referrals to Family Counseling: Obtain assistance in dealing with issues impacting your family, including domestic violence, substance abuse and mental health care.

Tax Preparation and Filing: From the Earned Income Tax Credit to a thoroughly prepared return, you may be eligible for refunds in very little time. The center can assist you in accessing tax credits that are meant to build you up.

Financial and Legal Counseling: One-on-one financial counseling on credit and debt issues, budget management and savings strategies as legal counseling on housing and tenant issues.

Financial Education: Classes available in money management, maintaining good credit, home ownership, running a business and much more.

The center will operate Monday through Friday from 3 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. For more information, call (973) 624-3733.