At Family ReBuild of New Jersey, we believe that every family deserves the dignity of a stable home and a safe place to rest their heads at night. We know that life can throw curveballs, a sudden job loss, an unexpected medical bill, or a natural disaster can leave you feeling like the ground is shifting beneath your feet. If you are struggling to keep up with your housing costs or are facing the terrifying prospect of displacement, please know this: you are not alone, and there is a community here ready to walk beside you.
This is Day 1 of our "Rebuilding with Confidence" series. Today, we are diving deep into the world of rent assistance in New Jersey, specifically focusing on the resources available right here in Burlington County. Navigating the maze of social services can feel overwhelming, but we’ve designed this guide to be your quick-start roadmap to finding help fast.
Why Finding Housing Stability is the First Step to Rebuilding
When your housing is at risk, it’s hard to focus on anything else. It affects your mental health, your children’s performance in school, and your overall sense of security. In New Jersey, where the cost of living can be a significant hurdle, housing insecurity is a reality for thousands of families. But seeking help isn't a sign of weakness; it’s a courageous first step toward regaining your independence and protecting your family’s future.
We’ve seen firsthand how the right support at the right time can change everything. By accessing family assistance programs in New Jersey, you aren't just getting a check for your landlord; you are buying time to breathe, plan, and rebuild.
Your First Call: NJ 211
If you are in a crisis and don’t know where to turn, your first move should always be to dial 2-1-1.
NJ 211 is a free, confidential, 24/7 service that connects residents with local resources. Think of them as the navigators of the social services world. When you call, a trained specialist will listen to your situation and point you toward the specific rent assistance New Jersey programs that fit your needs.
If you are currently homeless or at immediate risk of being evicted tonight, tell the operator that you need to "self-report" your housing status. This is a critical step in getting prioritized for emergency shelter or immediate financial aid. You can also visit their website or text your zip code to 898-211 to start a conversation.
Mastering Burlington County Resources: The Housing Hub
For those of us living in South Jersey, the Burlington County Housing Hub is an absolute lifesaver. This is a "one-stop shop" designed to simplify the process of finding help. Instead of driving all over the county to different offices, the Housing Hub brings multiple services together under one roof.
Located at the Human Services Building in Westampton, the Hub operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. You can reach them at (609) 265-5185.
The Housing Hub is essential for:
- Connecting with emergency housing assistance.
- Getting help with security deposits.
- Finding temporary shelter if you’ve been displaced.
- Accessing long-term housing navigation.
We often tell families that from displacement to dignity, the journey begins with having a clear plan. The staff at the Housing Hub are there to help you create that plan.
Targeted Help: BCAP and Social Services
While the Housing Hub is the gateway, there are specific organizations that handle the actual distribution of funds and support.
1. Burlington Community Action Partnership (BCAP)
BCAP is a powerhouse for rent assistance Burlington County NJ. Their Homelessness Prevention Program is specifically designed for families who are behind on their rent or facing an eviction notice. They don't just help with back rent; they can also provide assistance with security deposits to help you move into a more affordable situation.
- Contact: Call (609) 386-5800 and select Option 2.
2. Burlington County Board of Social Services
If you are already receiving benefits like TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), SSI, or General Assistance (GA), you may qualify for the Emergency Assistance (EA) Program. This program can help with housing costs to prevent homelessness.
- Contact: Call their Emergency Assistance line at (609) 518-4871 or email EAunit@Bcbss.org.
Community Partners and Non-Profits
Sometimes government programs have long waitlists or strict criteria. This is where community partners step in. Organizations like Catholic Charities (Diocese of Trenton) offer a bridge for families in Burlington County. They provide rental and utility assistance and are known for their compassionate, person-centered approach.
You can find them at 460 Veterans Drive in Burlington, or call them at (856) 764-6940. At Family ReBuild of New Jersey, we often partner with these organizations because we know that rebuilding lives requires more than just a roof; it requires a community that cares.
State-Level Programs to Keep on Your Radar
Beyond the county level, the State of New Jersey offers several long-term solutions for housing stability. While these programs often have waitlists, it is important to apply as soon as you are able:
- State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP): A program similar to Section 8 that provides vouchers for low-income residents.
- Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher): Managed by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), this helps families afford safe housing in the private market.
- Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP): Managed at the state level but often administered through local agencies like BCAP.
You can check your eligibility for these programs through the NJ DCA website.
Pro-Tips for Success: Organizing Your "Rebuild Kit"
When you apply for emergency financial assistance New Jersey programs, you will need to provide documentation. Having these items ready can significantly speed up the process:
- Proof of Income: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit letters.
- Identification: Birth certificates, Social Security cards, and photo IDs for all household members.
- Lease Agreement: A copy of your current lease showing your rent amount.
- Eviction Notice: If you have received a court notice or a "Notice to Quit," keep it safe, it is often a required piece of evidence for emergency funds.
- Hardship Statement: A brief, honest letter explaining why you fell behind (e.g., "I lost my job due to the company closing" or "I had an emergency surgery").
How Family ReBuild of New Jersey Fits In
Our mission at Family ReBuild of New Jersey is to fill the gaps that traditional programs might miss. We focus on the whole person, ensuring that when a family is displaced, they are met with dignity and respect.
We know that navigating these systems is exhausting. Sometimes you don't just need a phone number; you need someone to tell you that it’s going to be okay. Whether it's through our crisis counseling services or our community outreach, we are here to ensure that no South Jersey family has to rebuild alone.
We choose to put dignity first because we believe that your current situation does not define your future. You are a valued member of our community, and we are honored to support you.
Taking the Next Step
If you are feeling overwhelmed right now, take a deep breath. You don’t have to solve everything today. Your only job for the next hour is to make one phone call.
- Call 2-1-1 if you are in an immediate crisis.
- Call the Burlington County Housing Hub at (609) 265-5185 if you need a long-term plan.
- Reach out to us at Family ReBuild of New Jersey to learn more about how we support displaced families in our area.
Tomorrow, we will continue this series by looking at Emergency Financial Assistance in South Jersey, where we’ll cover five things you absolutely must know before you apply for aid.
Stay strong, keep your head up, and remember, we are in this together.
Want to help us make a difference?
Family ReBuild of New Jersey relies on the generosity of our community to provide these vital resources. If you are in a position to give, please consider visiting our latest news page to see how your support is changing lives every day. Together, we can rebuild South Jersey, one family at a time.
