B'Nai B'Rith Apartments, found at 61 E Northampton St in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, is a senior housing community with 236 units for people ages 62 and older, and some apartments are set up for mobility-impaired seniors, so folks with different needs can live here. The community has been around since 1968 and works with HUD through a Section 202 housing program, which helps very low-income seniors by providing apartments where rent is about 30% of their income, and rules require documents like an ID, social security card, proof of income, bank statements, and references to apply. Residents will see upgraded cabinets and new flooring in apartments, which come as either an efficiency with 291 square feet or a one-bedroom with 435 square feet, all with individually controlled heating and air so people can stay comfortable in their own way, and non-smoking policies, though there have been reports and lawsuits saying that smoking rules were not always enforced.
There are fire alarms and smoke detectors throughout the building, plus elevators for the multi-floor property, and people can get their mail right on site, but a serious fire in February 2024 highlighted problems with fire safety-residents had to be rescued from second-floor windows using ladders after a fire started when someone fell asleep smoking, and lawsuits point to issues with the fire suppression system either not working correctly or not being maintained, which has led to claims against the property and its managers, including Radiant Property Management and B'Nai B'rith International, for management negligence. Some residents became permanently injured due to this fire, so concerns remain about safety and how well the rules are followed.
The property has some nice spaces, with a newly renovated interior and things like a clubhouse, community room, computer center, library, laundry room, a spot for beauty services, and sidewalks for walking, with pets allowed and places outdoors with trees and a pretty view, making it a decent place for seniors who want to keep active or join resident groups. B'Nai B'Rith Apartments advertises assisted living, memory care, independent living, and home care options, and there's a service coordinator to help residents, but very little detailed information exists about the specific services or care types offered beyond the basics.
The apartments are close to places like the VA Hospital, Wilkes University, and shops such as Franco's Italian, Boscov's, and Rite Aid, which is handy. Awards like Best of Senior Living and All-Star Winner have been given to the community, mostly for good reviews and friendly staff, and residents sometimes say it's a happy and helpful place, with a resident council and planned meals. The property says it treats everyone fairly, following Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity rules, and welcomes all backgrounds, religions, and identities.
B'Nai B'Rith Apartments aims to let seniors live affordably, safely, and as independently as possible, but anyone considering it should know the building has a history of legal disputes and a recent major fire, so asking about up-to-date safety policies and maintenance would be wise.
