The Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) helps identify and address the human service needs of Ocean County residents.
HSAC is a Commissioner-appointed advisory group that brings together community partners, service providers, and government agencies to improve access to human services. The council works collaboratively with county and State agencies, including the New Jersey Department of Human Services, to support effective planning and decision-making.
Mission & Goals
The HSAC focuses on:
- Identifying high-priority human service needs in Ocean County
- Improving coordination among human service programs
- Supporting the planning and implementation of State and county initiatives
- Providing input on funding priorities
Responsibilities include:
- Assessing the human service needs of Ocean County
- Planning strategies to address those needs
- Supporting programs and services that serve residents
- Monitoring services to ensure they are appropriate and effective
Accessing Basic Needs Services
NJ 211 is a comprehensive 24/7, free, and confidential service to find local food pantries, shelters, rent/utility assistance, and medical care. Dial 2-1-1 or 877-652-1148.
NJHelps is an online portal to screen for eligibility and apply for SNAP (food assistance), Work First NJ (cash assistance), and Medicaid.
The Ocean County Board of Social Services provides eligible county residents with financial, medical, and social services assistance. To speak to a representative of the Ocean County Board of Social Services regarding WorkFirst NJ, Medicaid or NJ Family Care, SNAP, or Emergency Assistance, call (732) 349-1500.
If you are homeless in Ocean County you can call the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) Coordinated Entry Team at 732-341-2272 to have an assessment and be placed on the Coordinated Entry Waiting List.
Human Services collaborates with the Office of Senior Services and the Board of Social Services to compile a comprehensive Housing & Resource Guide. Click here to download the guide.
For food insecurity programming, contact Fulfill at 732-918-2600.
Activities and Events
- Homeless Persons Memorial Services
- Point in Time Count and Project Homeless Connect
Get Involved
All HSAC meetings are open to the public. Meetings are currently held virtually on the 4th Thursday of every month at 2:30pm. There are no meetings held in August and December. Please contact Human Services to be added to the e-mailing list for meeting notices and other important announcements.
Open funding opportunities through the Human Services Advisory Council are posted on the County’s OpenGov Bid Portal.
|