At Family ReBuild of New Jersey, we believe that everyone deserves the dignity of a safe and stable home. We know that life can throw curveballs, sometimes it’s a sudden job loss, an unexpected medical bill, or a natural disaster that turns everything upside down. If you’re feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders because you’re struggling to make rent, please know this: you are not alone, and there is help available right here in our community.
This is Day 1 of our 5-day series dedicated to providing practical resources for families in need across South Jersey. We’re kicking things off with a quick-start guide to navigating rent assistance in Burlington County.
I’m Ananeika Gordon, the CEO and Founder of Family ReBuild of New Jersey. My team and I are here to walk with you through the process of rebuilding your life with confidence. Let’s dive into the 10 things you need to know about getting the housing support you deserve.
1. You Have Options: Multiple Organizations are Ready to Help
Burlington County is home to several incredible organizations that specialize in helping families stay in their homes. You don’t have to rely on just one source. Groups like the Burlington County Action Program (BCAP), Catholic Charities, and the St. Vincent de Paul Society are dedicated to providing rent help to those in crisis.
Each organization has its own way of doing things, so we always recommend reaching out to more than one to see which programs you qualify for. To learn more about how these moving parts work together, check out our beginner’s guide to getting help fast.
2. Government Programs are a Strong Foundation
The Burlington County Board of Social Services is often the first stop for many. They manage emergency financial assistance for rent, security deposits, and even utilities. If you are already receiving benefits like TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), SSI, or General Assistance (GA), you might be eligible for their specific Emergency Assistance Program.
Don't wait until an eviction notice arrives to start these conversations. The sooner you engage with social services, the more options they have to help you stay ahead of the curve.
3. Understanding the State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP)
New Jersey offers a program called SRAP, which provides housing subsidies to very low-income residents. It’s important to know that this program has specific income limits based on your family size. For example, in Burlington County, a family of four usually needs to fall under a specific income threshold to qualify.
Keep in mind that SRAP is exclusively for New Jersey residents. If you’ve been displaced from another state, we can help you navigate the local residency requirements to ensure you’re looking at the right programs.
4. Certain Groups Receive Priority Support
We want to make sure the most vulnerable members of our community are protected. Many rent assistance programs in New Jersey prioritize certain groups to ensure they aren't left behind. This usually includes:
- Veterans (often the highest priority)
- Seniors and elderly residents
- Individuals living with disabilities
- Families with young children
If you fall into one of these categories, make sure to mention it immediately when you apply. It can often move your application to the front of the line.
5. It’s Not Just About the Rent Check
When we talk about "rent assistance," we’re talking about more than just the monthly payment. Many programs in South Jersey are designed to cover the various costs that come with keeping a roof over your head. This can include:
- Back rent (to prevent eviction)
- Security deposits for a new apartment
- First month’s rent
- Utility bills (heating, water, and electricity)
- Application fees for housing
At Family ReBuild of New Jersey, we focus on the whole picture. We understand that displacement costs more than just a roof, it impacts your mental health and your family’s stability, too.
6. Case Management: Your Roadmap to Success
Most local programs don’t just hand you a check and send you on your way. They provide case management, which is a fancy way of saying they give you a partner to help you navigate the system. Organizations like BCAP offer supportive services to help families achieve "economic self-sufficiency."
This means they’ll work with you on budgeting, finding better-paying jobs, and planning for the future. We love this approach because it’s about rebuilding with dignity, not just providing a temporary fix.
7. Legal Help is Available (And Often Free!)
If you are facing an active eviction, you don't have to go to court alone. There is free legal aid available in New Jersey specifically to help residents fight housing loss. Legal professionals can help buy you time while your rent assistance applications are being processed. This can be the difference between staying in your home and having to find emergency shelter.
8. Funding is Limited, Act Quickly
This is the tough part: emergency funds are limited. Many non-profits and government agencies operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and funds can run out before the end of the year. This is why we advocate for "quick-start" actions.
If you think you might need help, start the application process today. Don’t wait for a crisis to become a catastrophe. We are here to support you in taking that first step. Feel free to reach out to us if you don't know where to start.
9. Transitional Housing and Shelters are Safety Nets
Sometimes, rent assistance isn't enough to keep a family in their current home, especially after a major disaster. In those cases, Burlington County has transitional housing and emergency shelters. Organizations like the Interfaith Hospitality Network provide temporary housing while they help you find a permanent place.
If you are currently displaced, please know that there is a path back to a permanent home. We specialize in helping families move from displacement to dignity.
10. Keep These Numbers Handy
Information is power. Here are the key contacts for Burlington County rent assistance:
- BCAP (Burlington County Action Program): (609) 386-5800
- Catholic Charities Emergency Services: (856) 764-6940
- Board of Social Services (Emergency Assistance): (609) 518-4871
- Family ReBuild of New Jersey: Visit our Who We Are page to learn how we can help you coordinate these resources.
Join Us for a Celebration of Resilience!
While we work hard to provide resources, we also believe in celebrating our community's strength. We are so excited to invite you to our 2nd Annual Day Party! This isn't just a party; it’s a way for us to raise the funds necessary to keep supporting families across South Jersey.
- When: July 11, 2026
- Where: Pierre's of South Brunswick
- Why: To support Family ReBuild of New Jersey and have a great time with the community!
Your support allows us to continue providing emergency financial assistance and crisis counseling to those who need it most.
We Are Here For You
Rebuilding your life after a setback is a journey, not a sprint. Whether you need rent assistance in New Jersey or just someone to listen, Family ReBuild of New Jersey is in your corner. We’ve seen the power of community resilience firsthand, and we know that with the right support, you can come through this stronger than ever.
Stay tuned for Day 2 of our series, where we’ll talk about Emergency Financial Assistance in South Jersey: 5 Things to Know.
If you'd like to support our mission or learn more about how to get involved, please visit our Get Involved page or consider making a donation. Every bit helps us keep a family in their home.
Keep your head up( we’re rebuilding together!)
