The Ocean County Homelessness Trust Fund was created to support programs that prevent and address homelessness in our community. The fund is supported by a $5 fee on certain documents recorded in Ocean County.
The Homelessness Trust Fund Task Force provides oversight of the fund and makes recommendations to the Ocean County Board of Commissioners on how funding should be used, based on the County’s Plan to Address Homelessness. The Task Force works closely with community partners, including the Ocean County Homeless Prevention and Assistance Coalition (https://oceanhpac.org/) and the Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC), to ensure a coordinated, countywide response to homelessness.
Pursuant to New Jersey P.L. 2009 Chapter 123, funding from the Ocean County Homelessness Trust Fund can only support programs and services that help prevent and end homelessness:
- Creating and improving affordable housing
Acquisition, construction, or rehabilitation of housing for individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness
- Rental assistance
Tenant-based or project-based vouchers to help people afford permanent housing
- Supportive services
Services that help individuals and families obtain and maintain stable housing, such as case management, employment support, or other needed services
- Homelessness prevention services
Assistance that helps at-risk households remain in or secure permanent housing
Funds may be awarded to programs and projects that:
- Reduce homelessness in measurable ways
- Use proven, evidence-based approaches
- Show long-term cost savings
- Include clear outcomes and performance tracking
- Align with Ocean County's Plan to Address Homelessness
- Can serve residents long-term and be replicated in other communities
Accessing Homelessness Prevention and Intervention Services
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.
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.
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 emergent situations occurring after hours, contact the NJ State Homeless Hotline by dialing 2-1-1 or 1-877-652-1148.
Get Involved
Ocean County Homelessness Trust Fund Task Force meetings are open to the public. Meetings are currently held on the 1st Thursday of every other month at 1:00pm. Individuals and family members with lived experience are strongly encouraged to participate. Your feedback, perspectives, and involvement are valued and essential to advancing the Task Force’s mission and goals. Please contact Human Services to be added to the e-mailing list for meeting notices and other important announcements.
Open funding opportunities through the Homelessness Trust Fund are posted on the County’s OpenGov Bid Portal.
Plan to Address Homelessness
Legislation
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