The Office of Social Concerns serves as the connection between Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, and the 108 parishes in the Diocese. This office works to increase and maintain a collaborative relationship with the parishes in an effort to better meet the needs of those coming to us when they are experiencing hardship of any kind. Working as partners in this ministry, parishes sometimes come to our assistance particularly during major holidays by collecting food and gifts. We offer assistance to parishes for emergency financial need through the Diocesan Emergency Assistance Program. We also serve as a resource by referring them to the Agency program that can offer the specific help the family in need is requesting in the area of mental health, physical health and basic needs. When we may not have the services to meet the need presented, this office strives to offer other options. Even though this help is offered through parishes, it is not limited to Catholics and is offered to all.

It is also the responsibility of this office to ensure that education and awareness in the area of social justice is offered throughout the Diocese both through parish offices and the Vicariates. We are active on committees on the Diocesan level as well as an Inter-diocesan level that includes NJ Catholic Conference, NJ Catholic Coalition for Environmental Justice and Metuchen CRS. The Office of Social Concerns is committed to actively participate in working for peace and justice and to serving those who come to us in need of the basic necessities of life.

Community Organization
These programs reach beyond direct assistance and stimulate community response to disaster and long-term poverty.

Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) is the United States Catholic Church's official anti-poverty program. Over 4,000 projects have been funded in the past 30 years through the support of Catholics residing in the Diocese of Metuchen and nationwide.

The Catholic Relief Services (CRS) works with the local community to advance global solidarity. CRS is the official overseas arm of the U.S. Catholic community, sponsoring education, advocacy and fund-raising programs for at-risk communities in over 80 countries.