New Jersey residents experiencing homelessness should call 2-1-1 for help.

2-1-1 community resource specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can help clients who speak many different languages. Information provided will be kept confidential, except for information that needs to be shared with providers involved in providing shelter or shelter-related services.

In addition, the Social Service for the Homeless (SSH) program assists families and individuals who are experiencing homelessness or are at imminent risk of becoming homeless, but are not eligible for welfare (usually because their income is too high) and so are not eligible for Emergency Assistance.

The SSH program provides emergency food, emergency shelter and payment of security or utility deposits as well as back rent, mortgage and utilities costs. These services, which are available on a 24-hour emergency basis, also include referral services and limited case management.

Additional Resources

• Those in need of food, cash, or other assistance, can learn about what programs are available and how to apply online or call 211.
• For help dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, call 866-202-HELP (4357) for free telephone counseling or assistance. You can also text NJHOPE to 51684.
• Those struggling with addiction or substance use disorder, can call 1-844-ReachNJ (844-732-2465), a 24-hour-a-day, 7 day-a-week addictions hotline where people can get support from trained addiction counselors.
• If you are having suicidal thoughts call or text 988, or visit the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to chat online with a trained crisis counselor.
• For veterans in crisis, help is available by calling the Veteran Crisis Line at 1 (800) 273-8255 and pressing 1 or texting 838255
• Survivors of domestic violence can call the New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-572-SAFE (7233).

Source: https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/news/press/2020/approved/20200318b.html