News from Family Promise of Southern Ocean County

We began hosting families on December 26th at St. Mary's, and our first full week will be at Ocean Community beginning January 1. A great way to begin the new year, underway and with energized volunteers! Thanks so much to all who helped us in our relaunch project. We continue to interview families for participation, and will be reporting on families who are able to find sustainable housing through us. Thanks again!

DIRECTOR'S NOTES:

• We are in need of overnight hosts this Saturday night, Dec 31st at St. Mary's Parish Center. If anyone is available please contact Cheryl Polo email: familypromisesoc@gmail.com or 609-994-3317and leave a message if no answer.
• A BIG Thank You to Mrs. Stasuk 3rd Grade Class of McKinley Avenue Elementary School, Southern Regional High School LAS, and United Way for assisting us with gifts and stockings for our current and past guests for Christmas. Your generosity helped make our families have a better Christmas!

INTAKE FOR NEW FAMILIES
We are gathering potential families for our program. They can make application by contacting Cheryl at Family Promise of SOC
338 South Main Street, Barnegat, NJ 08005, 609-994-3317 or by replying to this email. Here are the criteria for families:
·      Adult parent must have at least 1 child under the age of 18
·      Does not have a permanent place to live
·      Has own car or the ability to secure transportation within short period of time while in program
·      Is currently employed or able to secure employment prior to entrance into the program
·      Has no current issues with drugs and alcohol
·      Has no untreated health issues
·      Must complete all intake requirements
·      Is willing and able to accept all Program Guidelines
·      Program is limited to 14 people

PLEASE CONSIDER FORWARDING THIS EMAIL TO OTHERS YOU KNOW ARE INTERESTED IN OUR PROJECT!

Court hearing date reminder

This is a reminder that the court hearing on Lakewood's mtion to evict Tent City residents is scheduled for this coming Friday, Jan. 6 @ 9 a.m.  Judge Foster's court is Courtroom 3.  Please attend to show your support for the men and women who live in Tent City.

Coalition Update: The Videotaped Beating of David Ivins

The holiday season was already hard enough for David Ivins:  the homeless man who was attacked in Wall Township by a 20-year-old, as a 17-year-old laughed and videotaped the attack.  If you have not seen it, below is a link to an article with excerpts from the You Tube video.  It's painful, but it's something everyone should watch.  In the video, the attacker leaves his bleeding victim with the words:  "Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah . . . or whatever the f--- you are."  http://www.app.com/article/20111219/NJNEWS/312190050/WITH-VIDEO-Pair-charged-beating-homeless-man-Wall-posted-YouTube?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage

Because David Ivins was homeless, he was called a "whatever" -- not even a human.  Part of our mission is to stop the dehumanization of the homeless.  Part of our responsibility is to raise awareness that, given the desperate shortage of affordable housing in NJ, particularly at a time of 9% unemployment, anyone could find themselves with nowhere to go.

We are a new Coalition, but we are already becoming a voice for NJ's homeless and for the need to advocate, educate, organize and otherwise support emergency and permanent solutions to homelessness.  A NJTV/PBS segment that aired this week (link below) is just one example of how we are doing so:

12/20/11:  NJTV/PBS Story on Attack on Homeless Man and NJ Homelessness 

David Ivins should never have been homeless -- let alone kicked when he was down, literally.  Anyone who agrees and wants to help the Coalition pursue its mission can:  (1) forward the first link below to anyone who has not yet signed up for information about the Coalition; and/or (2) click on the second link below to make a year-end donation:  

http://njcoalitionhomeless.org/Sign_Up_For_Info_.html

http://www.njcoalitionhomeless.org/How_to_Donate.html

Happy holidays from the Coalition -- and here's to our continuing to work in 2012, together, to end homelessness in New Jersey.

National Homeless Person's Memorial Day celebrated in Ocean County

A candlelight vigil was held Wednesday night at the Cedar Bridge Avenue encampment known as Tent City to remember all the local homeless who have died, said Steve Brigham, a minister and founder of the encampment.

Wednesday was National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day. More than two dozen people — some from Tent City, but others from outside the community — attended the service.

Among the people remembered was Nina Rogala, 68, who was known as the “mother of the camp.” A native of Poland, Rogala’s body was discovered Dec. 14 when a camper went to her tent…

To read more of Margaret Bonafide’s Asbury Park Press article go to:

http://www.app.com/article/20111223/NJNEWS/312230087/Residents-Tent-City-Lakewood-hold-memorial-service

Job seekers will find support at TR library

TOMS RIVER –   Ocean County Library and the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development will host a job seekers’ support group at the Toms River branch, 101 Washington St., Mon. Jan. 9 from 6 to 8:30 p.m.

This new monthly meeting, to be led by the Department’s Mark Boelte, will discuss job resources and share tips. It will be held in the first-floor Green Room.

The program is free and open to the public but registration is required.  Register by telephoning the library operator (732) 349-6200 or online www.theoceancountylibrary.org .

Ongoing construction in the municipal garage behind the library may limit parking spaces and change traffic patterns.  Check http://www.downtowntomsriver.com/bid/parking.htm for other parking options.

Little to become Freeholder Director at Jan 4 reorg meeting

A press release from the Ocean County Freeholders:

Freeholders to Organize Jan. 4
12/28/2011

TOMS RIVER - With just days to go before Ocean County ushers in the New Year, Ocean County Freeholder Gerry P. Little is preparing to become Director of the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders for 2012.

"I am looking forward to being Director of the Board in 2012," said Little, who served as the 2011 Deputy Director. "I am sure it will be a challenging new year but as a Board we work in concert always putting the citizens of the County first."

Little is expected to be appointed to the post during the Board's 2012 organization meeting scheduled for 3:30 p.m., Jan. 4 in Room 119 of the Ocean County Administration Building, here. Freeholder John C. Bartlett Jr. is expected to be named Deputy Director during the meeting.

"Our main concern for 2012 will be developing a county budget that continues to allow our residents the ability to afford to live here," Little said. "We want to continue to deliver core and vital services but it must be cost effective.

"Every year, this freeholder board pledges there will be no surprises in the County budget and the new year will be no different," Little said.

Freeholder Little said that with the sound fiscal policies the Board has in place, the county will enter 2012 with a AAA bond rating – the highest possible.

"With the diligence of Freeholder John Bartlett, who serves as liaison to the county's Department of Finance, we have been able to maintain this bond rating while we have seen state and federal ratings begin to drop," Little said. "This rating helps us secure the best interest rates possible so we can save money for the taxpayer and can advance important projects that affect the quality of life here in Ocean County."

Little, who has been on the Board of Freeholders since 2003 works closely with key county government departments that provide a host of programs ranging from services for veterans, to the Ocean County Planning Department.

"In the New Year, the Ocean County Veterans Service Bureau will expand into the southern part of the county providing services from the Ocean County Southern Service Center in Manahawkin," Little said. "Our veterans deserve the best services possible and access to our programs is key to providing them with the assistance they deserve."

Little noted that the Board of Freeholders also recently renewed its contract with Vetwork, a Lacey Township-based nonprofit group that assists local veterans.

"For 25 years Vetwork has been there for veterans in need," Little said. "We are very pleased to continue this collaboration on behalf of Ocean County's 68,000 veterans."

Freeholder Little said that as liaison to the Ocean County Board of Social Services, the Ocean County Department of Human Services, and the Ocean County Board of Health, he will continue to make every effort to help the most vulnerable and needy in Ocean County.

"These are difficult economic times and we certainly are understanding of that," Little said. "These agencies and their dedicated staffs make every effort to provide for those citizens who are in need."

Little added he will work closely with his colleagues on the Board of Freeholders to make certain environmental issues and concerns continue to be addressed.

"Our Engineering Department, under the direction of Freeholder John Kelly along with our Planning Department are continuing their work in preserving and protecting Barnegat Bay," Little said. "We are closely working with the state to implement Gov. Christie's 10 point plan to protect the bay, which truly is an environmental jewel enjoyed by all citizens of New Jersey."

Little noted that Ocean County's open space program, administered by the Planning Department will continue into the New Year preserving environmentally sensitive lands which also helps to protect the waterways and overall environment in Ocean County.

The county, since establishing the Ocean County Natural Lands Trust Fund in 1997, has helped save 12,642 acres of environmentally sensitive lands. And, almost 3,300 acres of farmland has been preserved in Ocean County, Little said.

"Of the 408,000 acres of land in Ocean County, more than 60 percent, including lands preserved by municipalities, is protected as open space," Little said. "The total number of acres preserved in Ocean County so far is 222,691. This land will forever remain open space."

Freeholder Little noted that the county will continue to provide environmental benefits through its award winning recycling program under the leadership of Freeholder James F. Lacey.

"Freeholder Lacey with the Department of Solid Waste has worked tirelessly to make certain this is the most convenient recycling program possible for our residents," Little said. "It certainly has paid off not only with benefits to the environment but economically through the recycling revenue sharing program."

Freeholder Little said he looks forward to working closely with Freeholder Joseph Vicari, who served as the 2011 Director, in providing services and programs for Ocean County's seniors.

"With more than 160,000 seniors calling Ocean County home, we have pledged to make certain that home delivered meals will continue, nutrition sites will remain open and our services will continue to provide our seniors with a quality of life second to none," Little said.

Attorney Jeff Wild speaks about homelessness on NJTV

Jeff Wild is interviewed on NJTV tonight (Tuesday) at 11 p.m.   He talks about the sad  homeless issue in NJ, etc.

Memorial service for Nina Rogala

A long time resident of Tent City, Nina Rogala died unexpectedly on Wednesday afternoon. She was a warm presence always ready to welcome visitors to her home and to the Tent City community. She will be missed. A memorial service has been planned for Nina for Wednesday, December 21^st at 6pm in the Tent City Chapel. Please come and share a thought.  

 

Kasturi (Rumu) DasGupta, PhD

Professor of Sociology

Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice

Georgian Court University

Lakewood, NJ 08701

Coalition Update: Court Papers Filed on Behalf of Lakewood Tent City

The hearing on Lakewood's motion to shut down Tent City is currently scheduled for Friday, January 6th at 9 a.m. at 100 Hooper Avenue in Toms River, Courtroom 3. Yesterday, on behalf of the Homeless Individuals, Lowenstein Sandler PC filed court papers in opposition to that motion. 

Most of you are not lawyers, but you may still want to read some of the Certifications given by residents of Tent City, the Certification by Minister Steve Brigham and/or our written arguments to the Court (in our legal brief).  If you have not been to Tent City or have not met its residents, these documents may be eye-opening, and all can be accessed by clicking below:

http://www.njcoalitionhomeless.org/Court_Filings.html

Finally, if anyone wants to support the new NJ Coalition to End Homelessness and its work to work to end homelessness statewide, tax-deductible donations can now be made by credit card, using the link below.  In any event, by having already signed up for the Coalition's mailing list, all of you have already shown your support for NJ's homeless, which is so critical as winter nears:

http://www.njcoalitionhomeless.org/How_to_Donate.html

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County intake information

We are gathering potential families for our program. They can make application by contacting Cheryl at Family Promise of SOC
338 South Main Street, Barnegat, NJ 08005, 609-994-3317 or by replying to this email. Here are the criteria for families:
·      Adult parent must have at least 1 child under the age of 18
·      Does not have a permanent place to live
·      Has own car or the ability to secure transportation within short period of time while in program
·      Is currently employed or able to secure employment prior to entrance into the program
·      Has no current issues with drugs and alcohol
·      Has no untreated health issues
·      Must complete all intake requirements
·      Is willing and able to accept all Program Guidelines
·      Program is limited to 14 people

Christmas dinner @ St. Mary's (Manahawkin)

Need a hot meal on Christmas Day?  Come to St. Mary's Parish Center at 100 Bishop Lane between noon and 3 p.m.  Just bring your Christmas spirit.  We have the rest!  Santa will be present with gifts for the children.  To make a reservation or to get a ride just call (609) 597-5797 and leave a message.

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County says, "thanks" to Lutheran youth

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County

THANKS TO YOUTH AND LEADERS FROM HOLY SPIRIT LUTHERAN for their work decorating the Day Center for our guest families. Your work brings a lift and encouragement to people in tough times!

OC Freeholder press release: senior services

Senior Services Provides Host of Programs for Seniors
12/14/2011

TOMS RIVER – More than just a nutritious meal, Ocean County's home delivered meal program has been providing the elderly with a critical lifeline for decades.

"Today we are preparing to continue these key programs for our elderly population into the New Year," said Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari, chairman of Senior Services. "With more than 160,000 seniors calling Ocean County home and with our 85 plus population increasing significantly, this program is a vital service to our seniors."

The Board of Freeholders on Dec. 21 is scheduled to approve six contracts for Community Services Inc. totaling $2,541,116 for several programs including congregate meals, home delivered meals, social support services and chronic disease self management.

"Community Services Inc. has done an outstanding job in working with the County in providing for our seniors," Vicari said. "They provide these services with compassion and a true dedication to our aging population."

Under the contracts, Community Services, Inc. plans to provide 66,610 congregate meals in the amount of $782,173 and 193,042 home delivered meals in the amount of $1,250,422 in 2012. In addition to the meals, 11,032 units of nutrition education/nutrition counseling will be provided by a registered dietician to both congregate and home delivered meals participants.

"The nutrition counseling component is very important to our seniors," Vicari said. "Shut-ins and some of the elderly citizens often neglect their nutritional needs. We attempt to educate and remind them about the importance of eating right. Good nutrition, proper exercise and socialization are vital to a long and healthy life."

Community Services, Inc. also plans to provide over 43,300 social support services such as Outreach, Benefits Screening, Transportation, Language Translation and others in the amount of $478,749 in 2012. And, Community Services, Inc. is expected to provide 600 units of "Take Control of Your Health" an evidenced based chronic disease self management program in the amount of $29,772 in 2012.

"Making certain our seniors receive proper nutrition in addition to having contact with caring individuals is a priority of the Board of Chosen Freeholders," Vicari said. "These programs are a integral part of our senior program network and the action we take today will make certain our elderly residents will be assisted in the New Year."

Vicari noted that the average age for a congregate meals participants is 84-years-old therefore, providing an evidence-based health education program such as the Chronic Disease Self Management Program will help to support individuals in their goal of remaining independent.

"All of these programs and services provide a host of benefits to our older adults in Ocean County," Vicari said. "From our caring and professional staff at the Ocean County Office of Senior Services to the assistance provided by Community Services and the senior services network, the elderly in Ocean County are in good hands."

National Homeless Person’s Memorial Day

December 21, 2011 / 5 pm – 7 pm
Edison Municipal Complex
(100 Municipal Boulevard, Edison, NJ 08817)
MUSIC - AWARENESS - POETRY - REMEMBRANCE
... Homeless people die from illnesses that affect everyone , frequently without health care.
Homeless people die from exposure, unprotected from the heart and cold. Homeless people die from violence, often in unprovoked hate crimes.
Health care is a human right. Housing is a human right.

...The First Day of Winter. The Longest Night of the Year.
Join us on Wednesday, December 21 at 5pm for a brief memorial event in
Remembrance of those who have died in the past year from causes directly
Related to homelessness. As the economy weakens, increased numbers of people have become homeless and many more are at risk.
Donations of gently used coats and non-perishable goods will be accepted at the event
SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS:
Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Middlesex County Office of Human Services, Middlesex County
Human Services Advisory Council, Middlesex County Housing Continuum of Care Committee,
Township of Edison, Catholic Charities Dioceses of Metuchen, Making It Possible to End Homelessness,
I Info Line of Middlesex County, Coming Home of Middlesex County, Elijah’s Promise, and
The Jewish Renaissance Foundation.

Homeless people, frequently without health insurance, die from illnesses that affect everyone.  Homeless people die from violence, often in unprovoked hate crimes.

Health care is a human right.  Housing is a human right.

The first day of Winter.  The longest night of the year.

Join us Wednesday, Dec. 21^st at 5 p.m. for a brief memorial event in remembrance of those who have died in the past year from causes directly related to homelessness.  As the economy weakens, increased numbers of people have become homeless and many more are at risk.

Donations of gently used coats and non-perishable goods will be accepted at this event.

Supporting organizations:

Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Middlesex County Office of Human Services, Middlesex County Human Advisory Council, Middlesex County Housing Continuum of Care committee, Township of Edison, Catholic Charities Dioceses of Metuchen, Making it Possible to End Homelessness, Info Line of Middlesex County, Coming Home of Middlesex County, Homeless people die from illnesses that affect everyone , frequently without health care.
Homeless people die from exposure, unprotected from the heart and cold. Homeless people die from violence, often in unprovoked hate crimes.
Health care is a human right. Housing is a human right.

...The First Day of Winter. The Longest Night of the Year.
Join us on Wednesday, December 21 at 5pm for a brief memorial event in
Remembrance of those who have died in the past year from causes directly
Related to homelessness. As the economy weakens, increased numbers of people have become homeless and many more are at risk.
Donations of gently used coats and non-perishable goods will be accepted at the event
SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS:
Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Middlesex County Office of Human Services, Middlesex County
Human Services Advisory Council, Middlesex County Housing Continuum of Care Committee,
Township of Edison, Catholic Charities Dioceses of Metuchen, Making It Possible to End Homelessness,
I Info Line of Middlesex County, Coming Home of Middlesex County, Elijah’s Promise, and
The Jewish Renaissance Foundation.Homeless people die from illnesses that affect everyone , frequently without health care.
Homeless people die from exposure, unprotected from the heart and cold. Homeless people die from violence, often in unprovoked hate crimes.
Health care is a human right. Housing is a human right.Homeless people die from illnesses that affect everyone , frequently without health care.
Homeless people die from exposure, unprotected from the heart and cold. Homeless people die from violence, often in unprovoked hate crimes.
Health care is a human right. Housing is a human right.

...The First Day of Winter. The Longest Night of the Year.
Join us on Wednesday, December 21 at 5pm for a brief memorial event in
Remembrance of those who have died in the past year from causes directly
Related to homelessness. As the economy weakens, increased numbers of people have become homeless and many more are at risk.
Donations of gently used coats and non-perishable goods will be accepted at the event
SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS:
Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Middlesex County Office of Human Services, Middlesex County
Human Services Advisory Council, Middlesex County Housing Continuum of Care Committee,
Township of Edison, Catholic Charities Dioceses of Metuchen, Making It Possible to End Homelessness,
I Info Line of Middlesex County, Coming Home of Middlesex County, Elijah’s Promise, and
The Jewish Renaissance Foundation.Homeless people die from illnesses that affect everyone , frequently without health care.
Homeless people die from exposure, unprotected from the heart and cold. Homeless people die from violence, often in unprovoked hate crimes.
Health care is a human right. Housing is a human right.

...The First Day of Winter. The Longest Night of the Year.
Join us on Wednesday, December 21 at 5pm for a brief memorial event in
Remembrance of those who have died in the past year from causes directly
Related to homelessness. As the economy weakens, increased numbers of people have become homeless and many more are at risk.
Donations of gently used coats and non-perishable goods will be accepted at the event
SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS:
Middlesex County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Middlesex County Office of Human Services, Middlesex County
Human Services Advisory Council, Middlesex County Housing Continuum of Care Committee,
Township of Edison, Catholic Charities Dioceses of Metuchen, Making It Possible to End Homelessness,
I Info Line of Middlesex County, Coming Home of Middlesex County, Elijah’s Promise, and
The Jewish Renaissance Foundation.Elijah’s Promise, and the Jewish Renaissance Foundation.

Coalition Update: Progress in Homeless Litigation

Nov.30, 2011

There were multiple signs of progress during a status conference held today in the Ocean County Homeless Litigation.  For everyone's planning, there is no court hearing until Friday, January 6th at 9 a.m. -- the still-scheduled date/time for the hearing on Lakewood's motion to shut down Tent City (in Judge Foster's courtroom at the Ocean County Courthouse, 100 Hooper Avenue, Courtroom 3, in Toms River).  We will be filing our written opposition to Lakewood's motion next week.

Today was a good day for the Coalition.  First, Lakewood has now agreed to meet to discuss settlement possibilities, either informally or with a professional mediator.  The preliminary discussions have been positive and constructive.  We do not know where the discussions will lead, but we applaud Lakewood for its willingness to seek a cooperative interim and long-term solution to the real problem:  that Lakewood's homeless, like homeless throughout Ocean County, have nowhere else to go.

Second, Judge Foster ruled that because of the public importance of the issues, he will consider a request from us for court-ordered mediation involving all the parties, including the County.  We will make such a request tomorrow.  Judge Foster confirmed, on the record, that the County could participate in mediation "without prejudice" -- that is, without concern that participating in a mediation could ever be used against the County in the litigation. 

Finally, the Court set a schedule for progress on the claims of the Homeless Individuals and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission against Ocean County and Lakewood, including the Mission's $2,000,000 damages claim against the County.  The County and Lakewood were directed to file Answers to these claims by December 12th.  The Court also authorized our moving forward with litigation discovery from the County and Lakewood, including our serving both with document demands and interrogatories (written questions requiring sworn answers). All discovery, which we expect to include depositions, is now scheduled to conclude by June 1st. We continue to hope that Ocean County's homeless can be helped through cooperation, not further litigation. However, we will continue the court case to its conclusion if the Homeless Individuals have no other choice.

Brian Lehrer radio program about Tent City

Here's a link to the Brian Lehrer segment, which hopefully will help increase public support.  Lakewood and the County were invited to participate but declined to do so:

http://www.wnyc.org/shows/bl/2011/dec/01/tent-city-new-jersey/?90348590345

Homelessness: think it can't happen to you?

Homelessness: think it can't happen to you?

Deputies Refuse to Evict 103-Year-Old From Home

As the foreclosure machine rumbles on, many Americans continue to lose homes that they have lived in for decades. The crisis has claimed the homes of more than 2.7 million Americans who took out a loan between 2004 and 2008 alone, while another 3.6 million from that group teeter on the brink of default. Banks are on track to repossess around 800,000 homes this year.

A 103-year-old and her 83-year-old daughter living in Atlanta looked poised to suffer that fate Tuesday when they were scheduled to be evicted from their home of 53 years.

But an act of compassion has left them holding on: The sheriff's deputies and moving company tasked with carrying out the eviction refused to remove the two from their home after seeing centenarian Vita Lee. Despite that, Lee's daughter was rushed to the hospital, perhaps because of the stressful circumstances of the planned eviction.

Lee, who will turn 104 within weeks, told WSB-TV/Channel 2 that she is hopeful that she can work out a deal with her lender, Deutsche Bank. A local community activist says the family has been "waging war" with the bank for years.

Lee's reprieve from eviction is one of the latest cases of homeowners avoiding foreclosure, thanks to acts of good Samaritans. Recently, a disabled veteran who sustained severe injuries in Afghanistan, held on to his home in Costa Mesa, Calif., after news of an imminent foreclosure on the house prompted a flood of donations. And earlier this month another vet was able to halt foreclosure on his home after gathering more than 14,000 signatures protesting the proceedings against him.

But as millions are well aware, homeowners normally can't count on the kindness of others to help them hold on to their homes. The case of a 101-year-old woman who lost her Detroit home to foreclosure serves as a grim reminder of this fact.

Video links can be found at the AOL Web site:; http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2011/11/30/deputies-refuse-to-evict-103-year-old-from-home/

Kiwanis Club of Jackson hosts community dinner

The Kiwanis Club of Jackson, along with other community volunteers, sponsored a community dinner Nov. 17th.  While the Kiwanis club participated in the past two community dinners at the Lakewood library branch, this was the first time the club independently sponsored it.

The club donated several turkeys, 50 pounds of mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, vegetables, homemade turkey soup, cranberry sauce, biscuits, drinks (apple cider, iced tea, coffee, and soda,) and several desserts.

A baker's dozen club members cooked and served the food.  They were helped by members of the Jackson Helping Hands Committee, Key Club members from Jackson's high schools, TAB members, and friends of the Kiwanis club.

Members of the John Wesley Stern band performed during the dinner.

About 120 people from the community came out.  The left overs were brought to the people living in Tent City on Cedar Bridge Avenue in Lakewood.

A slideshow of photos from the dinner can be found at http://bit.ly/uA86i7 

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County news

Nov. 28, 2011

Presented are excerpts from their newsletter. 

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FRIENDS AT SHANTYTOWN! A number of congregations worked together to host a Shantytown event in Manahawkin Lake Park. It drew great attention to the problem of homelessness in our community, and transformed some lives! Job well done!
THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF OUR EMAIL NEWS EFFORT: 152 of you read our news last week. We were late this week because of Thankgiving, but this Thursday we'll send out a note about our intake and more congregational hosting information. Keep reading and forward the newsletter to your friends, or ask them to sign up on our website. If we grow our list, more people can celebrate with us as we make a difference in the lives of homeless families!

CAN YOU HELP US CHRISTMAS WEEK? WE ARE STARTING TO GET SUPPORT, DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY TO BE BLESSED DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON!
We have a location for hosting (December 24 - December 31 at St. Mary's Parish Center) but we need to assemble a team to provide meals, hosting, sleepover, etc... If you can help, please respond to this email. Marianne from Grace Calvary is coordinating the hosting for that week, and we'll see that you get put together!

VOLUNTEER AND COORDINATOR TRAINING AVAILABLE : Tuesday, December 6th
VOLUNTEERS 10:30-12:30
If you are interested in attending or know someone that is please contact me through phone or email for upcoming dates and times of monthly volunteer trainings.

 

Coordinator Training

Mandatory for All Coordinators
1:30-3:30

   *This can be rescheduled individually with Director

WHERE: Ocean Community Church
1492 Rt. 72 West, Manahawkin

PLEASE RSVP BY 12/5
994-3317 or
familypromisesoc@gmail.com

HERE'S HOW OUR WEEKS LOOK SO FAR:

THERE ARE MORE WEEKS ALREADY SCHEDULED FURTHER ON, but if your church hasn't set your dates for 2012 with us yet, let us know by replying to this email and we'll get in touch with a calendar on hand!

INTAKE FOR NEW FAMILIES
We are gathering potential families for our program. They can make application by contacting Cheryl at Family Promise of SOC, 338 South Main Street, Barnegat, NJ 08005, 609-994-3317 or by replying to this email. Here are the criteria for families:
·      Adult parent must have at least 1 child under the age of 18
·      Does not have a permanent place to live
·      Has own car or the ability to secure transportation within short period of time while in program
·      Is currently employed or able to secure employment prior to entrance into the program
·      Has no current issues with drugs and alcohol
·      Has no untreated health issues
·      Must complete all intake requirements
·      Is willing and able to accept all Program Guidelines
·      Program is limited to 14 people

60 Minutes once more addresses homelessness

60 Minutes produced another story on homelessness, primarily amongst children.  They say 25% of the children inour country live in poverty.  Many are homeless.

Here is a link to 60 Minutes Overtime that disucsses how they assembled their report: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504803_162-57330017-10391709/a-reporters-story-finding-homeless-families/?tag=strip

Month postponement in court case

Judge Foster has granted a one-month postponement in the hearing to oust residents of Tent City.  The new date is Jan. 6 @ 9 a.m.  Judge Foster's courtroom is Courtroom #3, 100 Hooper Avenue.

2 Catholic groups support homeless, host BBQ at Tent City

The St. Vincent de Paul Society and the Knights of Columbus at St. Mary at the Lake Church hosted a BBQ for the people living in Tent City, providing not only food but also support for them in their lawsuit against the township.

"We're making a statement that there are poeple behind these people," said Bob Castellano, president of St. Vincent de Paul Society, in an Asbury Park Press article.

The full text of the article can be found at http://www.app.com/article/20111120/NJNEWS10/311200040/Tent-City-barbeque-statement-naysayers

(Posted at 7:40 pm)

Freeholders nix follow up discussion until litigation is resolved

I first want to thank the Freeholders for setting aside time in their October 16^th meeting agenda to give the community partners of Ocean County’s homeless an opportunity to address the needs of the homeless.  The freeholders were also generous with their time to allow members of the audience a chance to share their experiences and support of the homeless.

The speakers were treated with respect and courtesy by the freeholders and just about everyone left with a feeling that something positive happened and we were all entering new territory in solving homelessness in Ocean County.

One of the most important lessons the homeless community has learned from three forums is the need to work collaboratively with several groups to end homelessness in Ocean County: county legislators, business people, clergy, community activists, and the homeless.  No one group has all the answers, nor all the resources.

At the conclusion of the presentation I offered an invitation to the freeholders to join in a collaborative effort and discuss the homeless situation.

I am sorry, and I know many others are disappointed, in the freeholders’ decision to not sit down to discuss the issue in more depth.  We do realize that their decision still allows us to meet together in the future when the litigation is resolved.

The saddest part of the freeholders’ decision is its effect on the homeless.  While we are in our warm beds they are out there in the elements.  While we debate, they suffer.

The community partners will continue to work to improve the services and the way they are delivered to the homeless.  And we will leave an open space at the table to welcome the county officials to join us.

Asbury Park Press editorial, Nov. 18, 2011

Time to tackle homelessness

For the past several years, the Ocean County Freeholders’ response to the homelessness problem has been to wish that it would go away.  It won’t.  On Tuesday night, about 200 people gathered in Lakewood town square after they walked with lanterns for a mile from Tent City to raise awareness of the plight of the homeless and call on officials once again to provide them a shelter in Ocean County.

The peaceful demonstration was one more chapter in the years-old story of the Ocean County freeholders’ unwillingness to provide shelter for the homeless in their midst.  The failure is found most conspicuously in Tent City in Lakewood, where dozens of people have taken up “residence.”

Lakewood filed a lawsuit last year to evict Tent City residents from township-owned land in the woods off Cedar Bridge Avenue.  Eventually, Lakewood agreed to allow the tentdwellers to stay on a temporary basis.  But the lawsuit, which drew a countersuit from an attorney representing Tent City residents, continues, with a hearing set for Dec. 2.

The problem in Ocean County, however, transcends Tent City.  According to Roseland attorney and activist Jeffrey J. Wild, in a 32-month period, the county Board of Social Services turned down 3,774 applications for assistance.  Wild argues the county has failed to spend an annual $20 million budgeted to care for the homeless in either an efficient or humane manner.

The Board of Freeholders may be right in claiming that government has no constitutional or other legal obligation to provide such a shelter.  It may have decided that the moral issue of homelessness is not in its purview.  But the issue may soon begin to hit Ocean County hard in the pocketbook.  It shouldn’t come to that.

Last month, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, a nonprofit Christian social service ministry that operated a shelter in Atlantic City, filed a lawsuit against Ocean County seeking reimbursement for about $2 million in costs since 2005 associated with providing emergency shelter for homeless people who previously resided in Ocean County.

Homelessness has been a longstanding problem in Ocean County.  As we have argued before, the freeholders should turn the tent community into a sanctioned temporary shelter until a permanent  county-funded, privately operated shelter can be built.

Some of the homeless in Ocean County are those with substance abuse problems and/or mental illness who have been reluctant to leave Tent City.  But many are those who have fallen on bad luck and hard times.  All of them need some help.  The county should do the right thing instead of continuing its vain attempt to defend hard-heartedness.

Featured Letter to the Editor in Friday’s (Nov. 18th) Asbury Park Press

Tent City plight shows need to better help the homeless

As another winter looms ahead, the residents of Tent City – about 80 diverse souls – will have to muster all possible strength, with the help of their community partners, to weather whatever challenges nature thrusts upon them again.

The appeal from the community – more than 150 of whom showed up for the Ocean County freeholders meeting on Oct. 19 and shared a trove of ideas for more permanent solutions – seems to have fallen on deaf ears.

And now Lakewood is seeking a court order to close Tent City and turn out the residents to the street, just as winter rounds the corner.

Tent City is the alternative that people desperate for some shelter have put together.  It is not the perfect solution, but one that ensures the residents will have some roof over their heads, a warm meal, a warm-enough bed and a community to support them when none other is available.

As newly elected representatives take office in Lakewood and Ocean County, it is imperative that they take a more compelling position on the homeless.

Instead of continuing to waste taxpayer money on stop-gap solutions such as motels, they need to work with those in the community who have been advocating for more permanent ways to house the homeless and work out a plan that is both humane and fiscally responsible as soon as possible.

The eyes of the world are on Tent City, and this is Lakewood’s and Ocean County’s opportunity to show that here in this community each person matters, no matter how disadvantaged they are.

Rumu DasGupta

(Rumu DasGupta is a professor of sociology at Georgian Court University.)

Final rule on homeless definition released

On November 15, 2011 the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development released the final rule on the definition of homelessness. The new definition of homelessness will take effect 30 days after being published in the Federal Register. The final rule provides detailed explanations for the new categories under which households can qualify as homeless as well as the documentation requirements for agencies providing services. Persons may qualify as homeless under one of four categories:
1. Household lacks regular, fixed, stable nighttime residence
2. Household is at imminent risk of losing housing within 14 days
3. Youth 25 and younger or family doubled up or qualifying under other federal statutes 4. Households fleeing domestic violence or other life threatening situations

Shantytown Fundraising Effort by local churches Sat & Sun, Nov 19, 20

From Family Promise of Southern Ocean County, an explanation of Shantytown:

Shantytown, a community outreach to the homeless and hungry of Southern Ocean county, will be held at Manahawkin Lake Park from 6:00 pm Saturday, November 19 to 8:00 am Sunday, November 20.  The event will be open to the public  Saturday evening for a clothing and canned food drive.  You may also sponsor participants who will “spend the night in a box, so someone else won’t have to.”  All proceeds will benefit local area homeless outreaches and food pantries.  Shantytown is a community action project of a coalition of 7 area churches.  For further information or to make donations, email Shantytown@cedarrunchurch.org or visit our web page at cedarrunchurch.org. Print a flyer for your bulletin board.

(Posted 7:29 p.m.)

Family Promise of SOC president supports OC enactment of Housing Trust Fund

Testimony of Daniel F Lundy, President, Family Promise of Southern Ocean County, Inc.
 Meeting of  Board of Freeholders 
 October 18, 2011
 My name is Daniel Lundy and I am the President of Family Promise of Southern Ocean County (FPSOC), a nonprofit corporation composed of 22 religious congregations in southern Ocean County. We provide temporary shelter, meals and case management to homeless families, primarily those not on public assistance--the working poor.
Over the past two years we have provided more than 7000 bed nights of shelter and more than 20,000 meals to these folks and helped them become permanently housed and self sufficient.
Our board of trustees, representing a broad cross section of the residents of SOC, met last night and unanimously resolved that I should testify at this hearing, on behalf of homeless families. Specifically, they ask that you establish a homeless trust fund, similar to what has been done in Mercer and other counties, and enact a funding source through a $3.00 fee that would apply to every document filed in the county. I am advised that this fee would raise several hundred thousand dollars annually. 
Last year there were more than 65,000 foreclosure filings in New Jersey and over 5,000 in Ocean County. A court imposed moratorium was imposed in December to forestall such filings until irregularities and fraudulent practices by the mortgagee banks were investigated and precluded. On August 15th  of this year the six largest banks obtained court permission to resume uncontested foreclosures by demonstrating that they have taken steps to remedy this problem--improper robo-signing and other shoddy practices. In the near future therefore we can expect a flood of foreclosures.
The lack of affordable housing in our county places a severe strain on families that are forced out of their homes. It affects not only them but entire neighborhoods as forced vacancies occur.  I submit  there are few challenges that will face our county that are more significant than the threatened homelessness that now looms. 
I urge you to address this issue by establishing the housing trust and and adopting a broad range of other measures that will make affordable housing a reality in Ocean County.

(Posted 7:10 p.m.)

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County new newsletter

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County has released its latest newsletter.  Sign up for it at their Web site http://www.familypromisesoc.com/ .

This issue includes:

• Can you help us for Christmas week?
• Intake for new families.
• Shantytown @ Manahawkin Lake Park
• Text of President Dan Lundy's message to the Ocean County Freeholders Oct. 19, supporting enactment of the Housing Trust Fund.
• Are housing programs endangered by the Federal Budget Control Act's Super Committee?
• The Appellate Division blocked the governor's interim procedures that would have undercut the Fair Housing Act's requirement to provide affordable housing.
• Help wanted: part-time administrative assistant.

The full text is in their newsletter. Sign up now.

(Posted 7:05 p.m.)

Tent City Web site

Here is a link to the Tent City Web site: http://www.tentcitynj.org/

Media coverage of yesterday's homeless walk

APP photos: http://www.app.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=B3&Dato=20111115&Kategori=MULTIMEDIA02&Lopenr=311150113&Ref=PH

APP article: http://www.app.com/article/20111115/NJNEWS/311150128/Hundreds-gather-for-homeless-of-Lakewood-s-Tent-City

WOBM article (Nov 15) : http://wobm.com/lakewood-deputy-mayor-responds-to-tent-city-march-candlelight-vigil/

WOBM article (Nov 14, has CNN video embedded): http://wobm.com/march-to-raise-awareness-for-homeless-in-oc/

March of support for Ocean County homeless a great success

About 250-300 people attended a march and rally of support for Ocean County's homeless Tuesday Nov. 15, walking from Tent City to the town's municipal building.  Participatns included the homeless, clergy, college students from GCU and OCC, business people and community members.

The mile-long march kicked off a little after 5:30 p.m. and took about half an hour to complete.

Lakewood police accompanied the marchers through the whole trip and provided protection as the marchers crossed the streets and driveways.

A few snapshots of the marchers can be found at the following Flickr slideshow: http://www.flickr.com/photos/22036136@N07/sets/72157628012981009/show/ 

March of Support reminder

Just a reminder: today's walk of support for Ocean County's homeless will be held rain or shine.  It steps off at 5:30 at Tent City, proceeds along Cedar Bridge Avenue and ends at the municipal building.  And on WOBM-FM this morning the assistant mayor said he supports the group's right to march.  He also supports the goal to not make this a political statement, the same thing the group advocated during the presentation to the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders four weeks ago.
Posted 7:06 AM EST

Thanksgiving 2011 meals

Ocean County Hunger Relief has announced that the following locations will be providing Thanksgiving meals:

Brick:

Church of Epiphany, 615 Thiele Road, Brick: Nov 24 @ Noon.  (732) 458-0220.  Deliveries will be made upon request.  Volunteers needed.  Call to RSVP.

Lacey:

Lacey United Methodist Churs, 203 Lacey Rd, Forked River. Nov. 24 1 pm. (609) 693-5222.  RSVP by Nov. 23rd.

Lakehurst:

Lakehurst United Methodist Church, Pine & Elm St. Nov. 24 12-2 pm.  Please RSVP (908) 278-4654.

Lakewood:

Macedonia Baptist Church, 143 John St., Nov. 24 11 am to 1 pm.  Deliveries will be made upon request.  Volunteers needed.

Calvary Lighthouse Church, 1133 East County Line Rd, Nov. 24 11 am - 3 pm. (732) 942-1541 to RSVP.

Long Beach Island:

St. Francis of Assissi Parish Thanksgiving dinner sponsored by Youth Ministry, 4700 Long Beach Blvd, gym.  Nov. 24 12-2 pm.  Please RSVP (609) 636-2793.  Deliveries available.

Point Pleasant Beach:

St. Gregory's with the Elks Club, 820 Arnold Av, Nov. 24 1-3 pm. (732) 892-8105. (Deliveries will be made upon request.)

Point Pleasant Boro: 

St. Martha Church, 3800 Herbertsville Rd.  Nov. 24 1 - 4 pm. (732) 295-3630.  Delivery upon request.  Must call in advance.

Seaside Heights:

Knights of Columbus Council 8415, Simon's Soup Kitchen, Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish hall at Grant & Central Avenues, Nov. 24, 1-2 pm. (Full Thanksgiving dinner.)

Toms River:

First United Methodist Church of Toms River, 129 Chestnut St., Nov. 24 @ 1 pm. (732) 349-8155.  You must call to make a reservation.

Salvation Army/Hearty Helpings, 1738 Route 37 East, Nov. 23 @ 5 pm sharp.

Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 1500 Hooper Av, Nov. 24th, 12-4 pm.  Please RSVP (732) 255-4455.  Make a reservation by Nov. 20th.

Thanksgiving Feast for the less privileged families in our community at: Cookie Cab (across from Ocean County Library) Washington St. free meal from 12 noon - 4pm (732) 341- 1000 X 8474 or (732) 966-4989

Family Promise to accept families Dec. 11

Family Promise of Southern Ocean County is currently taking referrals for services and will be re-launching the program beginning Dec.11, 2011. If you know of any family residing in Southern Ocean County area that meets all the below criteria please have them contact 609-994-3317.

CRITERIA FOR SERVICES

·        Adult parent must have at least 1 child under the age of 18

·        Does not have a permanent place to live and is from Southern Ocean County area

·        Has own car or the ability to secure transportation within short period of time while in program

·        Is currently employed or able to secure employment prior to entrance into the program

·        Has no current issues with drugs and alcohol

·        Has no untreated health issues

·        Must complete all intake requirements

·        Is willing and able to accept all Program Guidelines

·        Program is limited to 14 people

(Posted 8 pm EST)

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This is a test, written @ 1:54 p.m.

Anti-bullying program offered Dec. 8 in TR - free

OCEAN COUNTY HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION

Unity Through Diversity

P. O. Box 2191 Toms River, NJ  08754-2191

Telephone: (732) 929-2027

ochrc@hotmail.com

Richard Biolsi, Chairman

November 9, 2011

PRESS RELEASE

What: Informational program about Cyber bullying: speakers, movie, Q&A

When: Thursday Dec. 8 @ 6:30 p.m.

Where: Toms River branch

CONTACT:       Sgt. Cynthia Boyd, 732-929-2027

                        cboyd@co.ocean.nj.us

                        Larry Meegan, 732-349-6200, ext. 5906

                        lmeegan@theoceancountylibrary.org

Halting cyber bullying: a parental guide

TOMS RIVER –   The Ocean County Human Relations Commission will present “Cyber bullying: What You Need to Know as a Parent” Thursday Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m. in Ocean County Library’s Mancini Hall at the Toms River branch, 101 Washington St.

The program will feature the movie “Sticks and Stones.”

The movie examines the dangers and consequences of cyber bullying through the experiences of a young man who is taunted by a bully and abandoned by his friends.  “Sticks and Stones” looks as several relevant issues that face today’s teens that are of concern to parents, particularly regarding the dangers of Internet bullying, harassment, peer pressure, the role of the bystander, hate speech and suicide.

Detective James Hill, High Tech Crime Unit Supervisor in the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, will introduce the movie and offer suggestions for how parents can help their children to deal with the dangers inherent in online communications.

Tom Mongelli, Shore News Bureau Chief for Townsquare Media, will be the emcee for the program and facilitate a discussion with the audience after the movie is shown.

Anthony Pierro, Supervising Assistant Prosecutor in the Juvenile Justice Division, will explain the new anti-bullying laws in New Jersey.

The presentation is free and designed for parents, teachers and other interested adults.  Because of the sensitive nature of the film, anyone under the age of 18 will not be admitted.

Registration for the program begins Nov. 10 and can be made by contacting the library operator (732) 349-6200 or (609) 971-0514, on online at www.theoceancountylibrary.org .

Continuing education credits are available.

The presentation is cosponsored by the Ocean County Library, the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, Jersey Shore PFLAG, and the Ocean County College Office of Multicultural Services.

Court Hearing Regarding Misappropriation of Housing Trust Funds by Cherry Hill

From the Fair Share Housing Center blog.

Posted by Kevin Walsh, Nov. 11, 2011

On Monday, November 14, 2011 at 1:30 pm in Camden, the Camden and Southern Burlington County Branches of the NAACP and Fair Share Housing Center (FSHC) will argue before Judge Robert Millenky of the Superior Court that Cherry Hill Township has violated state law by:

·         Misappropriating nearly $1 million in funds from a trust fund required by state law to be used only for housing families, people with disabilities and seniors. Any use of the funds is required to be approved by the court, but the Township frequently spent trust funds without court approval.

·         Illegally commingling trust funds with other municipal funds in violation of state law.

·         Illegally using at least $511,000 on general municipal expenses, which is expressly prohibited by state law.

·         Failing to maintain bank statements for the account in violation of state law.

·         Failing to collect interest on the account in violation of state law.

·         Misrepresenting how much was collected in order to cover-up its illegal misappropriation of trust funds.

The Township has acknowledged misappropriating funds, but has demanded that it not be required to return the funds to the trust fund. The NAACP Branches and FSHC have asked the Court to take control of the fund, order an audit, and order the Township to reimburse the trust fund for misappropriated funds and missing interest. The NAACP Branches and FSHC have been litigating to force Cherry Hill to comply with the Mount Laurel doctrine since the 1980s, most recently through litigation filed in 2001.

The hearing will occur in Judge Millenky’s courtroom at the Superior Court courthouse in Camden located at 101 South 5th Street, Camden, NJ 08103.

To request copies of the briefs and appendices filed in this matter, please send an email to fairshare@fairsharehousing.org .