New Jersey Awards Over $7 Million in Grants for Homelessness Prevention

DCA Partners with Nonprofits Statewide to Combat Homelessness; Allocates Over $550k to Morris County Nonprofits

The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has recently allocated more than $7.1 million in grants to a variety of nonprofit organizations across the state, aiming to bolster efforts in preventing homelessness. 

This initiative, part of the Homelessness Diversion Pilot Program and the Homelessness Prevention Program, underscores the state's commitment to maintaining housing stability for its residents at risk of homelessness. Administered by the Department’s Office of Homelessness Prevention, these funds are a testament to New Jersey's proactive stance on this critical issue.

Acting DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez emphasized the partnership with community-based organizations to prevent the distress and challenges associated with unsheltered homelessness. 

Through innovative solutions, the goal is to ensure long-term housing stability for New Jersey families. Assistant Commissioner Janel Winter, who heads the Division of Housing and Community Resources, highlighted the fundamental belief in housing as a basic human right, with efforts focused on preventing homelessness before it occurs.

The awarded funds, amounting to $4.83 million under the Homelessness Diversion Pilot Program, will support rapid housing case management, problem-solving strategies, and flexible funding assistance. This approach aims to help households navigate crises effectively, thereby avoiding homelessness.

Morris County Organizations in this funding category: the Mental Health Association of Essex County, Inc. (Morris County Branch) with $230k awarded, and Nourish.NJ with $230k awarded.

An additional $2,337,766 through the Homelessness Prevention Program will provide financial assistance for up to three months, helping households facing imminent eviction or foreclosure due to unforeseen financial difficulties.

Nourish.NJ, Morris County branch, will also receive $99,690.

Notable recipients of the grants include various organizations across New Jersey, from Burlington to Hudson counties, each receiving amounts to support their localized efforts in combating homelessness. These organizations play a crucial role in the state's comprehensive prevention approach, offering immediate financial assistance and long-term housing solutions.

The Office of Homelessness Prevention coordinates statewide efforts, engaging government and private sectors in a collaborative push towards eradicating homelessness. Through research, program administration, and the development of innovative solutions, the office seeks to enhance the efficacy of current services and introduce new strategies to meet the evolving needs of New Jersey's at-risk populations.

The DCA's mission extends beyond homelessness prevention, encompassing a wide range of services aimed at community strengthening and revitalization. Through affordable housing production, rental assistance, community planning, and more, the Department continues to support and empower New Jersey communities in achieving sustainable growth and stability.

As these programs unfold, the impact of the DCA's grants will be closely monitored, with the hope that these concerted efforts will lead to a significant reduction in homelessness across New Jersey, aligning with the state's broader objectives of ensuring dignity and security for all its residents.