The Housing and Social Concerns Division assists individuals and families who are hungry, need shelter, or lack the financial resources to meet their basic needs. Over 20 programs are available to provide short term assistance that will lead to self-sufficiency and an improved quality of life.
Ozanam Family Shelter in Edison provides emergency shelter for 16 single women and 26 families. The Ozanam Inn, located in New Brunswick, provides shelter to the homeless men of Middlesex County. The facility has 14 emergency shelter beds and 26 transitional housing beds. While living in the shelter, program residents work with case managers to improve their earning capacity and obtain permanent housing.
Naomi’s Way is the Division’s newest program. The facility, located in New Brunswick, has 16 one or two bedroom units. The program offers support to homeless mothers who are employed or engaged in job training. Stays at Naomi’s Way can last up to 24 months. While in residence, the women are provided with case management and life skills training.
The State Street Program has 55 single room occupancy units, eight studio apartments and three one-bedroom apartments for low-income singles and couples. Many of the men and women tenants once resided in Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen shelters. Tenants are offered case management, life skills training, transportation, counseling and linkage to substance abuse and mental health counseling.
The Project for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH) is designed to assist mentally ill individuals who are homeless. The project provides assistance securing entitlements, mental health treatment and housing. Services are provided to clients in the community in train stations, hospital emergency rooms, shelters and soup kitchens.
