We hope the following list of resources in and around New Jersey will be helpful to you. Please check with the agency or group about current eligibility requirements. Click on a topic to jump to the subject matter.
Financial Assistance
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides monthly payments to persons over 65 or who are blind or disabled and who have limited income and few resources. Persons receiving SSI in NJ automatically receive Medicaid.
To apply as an adult disabled person, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/applyforbenefits
To apply for a child, visit www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/apply-child.html or call 1-800-772-1213.
SSDI Childhood Disability Benefits (formerly called Disabled Adult Child (DAC) benefits): Child with disabilities that manifest before age 21 can receive disability payments based on a parent’s record if a parent dies; retires and becomes eligible for Social Security payments; or becomes disabled him/herself. A child receiving SSDI/CDB is automatically eligible for Medicare after a waiting period. For information and to apply, visit www.socialsecurity.gov or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
NJHelps.org:
WorkFirst New Jersey (TANF) – Temporary Assistance for Needy Families; single adults and couples without children. WFNJ provides monthly cash assistance, short-term housing support, childcare, and employment and training services. Prescreening
General Assistance (GA) – To be eligible for TANF, a family of three can have a gross monthly income of $839. To be eligible for GA, a single adult can have a gross monthly income of $278.: www.NJHelps.org
back to the topState Services
Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD): Provides opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities, age 21 and older, to receive quality services and supports, participate meaningfully in their communities, and exercise their right to make choices. Services include home and community-based programs, supported employment, and housing assistance. Individuals access these services through one of two Medicaid waiver programs: Community Care Program or Supports Program. For more information, visit www.nj.gov/humanservices/ddd/
Children’s System of Care (CSOC): Serves children and adolescents with emotional and behavioral health care challenges and their families; children with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their families; and children with substance use challenges and their families. CSOC is committed to providing services based on the needs of the child and family in a family-centered, community-based environment. For more information, visit https://www.nj.gov/dcf/
PerformCare NJ: Contracted system administrator for NJ Children’s System of Care (CSOC) to connects young people under age 18 and their families statewide to services for behavioral health, intellectual/developmental disability (services up to age 21), or substance use treatment services. Through the CSOC, PerformCare administers the publicly funded developmental disability service delivery system for children and youth up to age 21. PerformCare is also the single point of access to behavioral health and substance use treatment services for New Jersey youth up to the age of 21. Services include Family Support Services (FSS) which provide caregiver relief (Respite); assistive technology; home and vehicle modifications; assistance with summer camp during summer breaks from school; connection with local Care Management Organizations (CMOs); and Out of Home (OOH) services and supports. To contact PerformCare: Toll-free: 1-877-652-7624 (24/7 access) or visit www.performcarenj.org
Hours of Operation: 24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week
Address: 300 Horizon Drive Suite 306, Robbinsville, NJ 08691-1919
1-877-652-7624 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Statewide Respite Care Program: This program offers services to individuals needing care to provide a break (“respite”) to unpaid caregivers. Services can include adult day care, home care, companion services, campership, or a short stay in a facility. There is a caregiver directed option, which allows the caregiver to pay for/be reimbursed for services or items that make caregiving easier. Individuals eligible for this program must: live in the community and require daily, basic care that is currently being provided by unpaid caregivers such as a spouse, family members or friends; not participate in other services that provide this type of care; meet financial guidelines for income and assets. There may be a co-pay based on income. For more information, visit: www.state.nj.us/humanservices/doas/services/srcp/.
Family Support Organizations (FSO): Family-run, county-based organizations that provide direct family-to-family peer support, education, advocacy, and other services to family members of children with emotional and behavioral problems. To access services, contact your county FSO:
- Atlantic Cape FSO
950 Tilton Road Suite 108
Northfield, NJ 08225
PHONE: (609) 485-0575
FAX: (609) 485-0467 - FSO of Bergen County
0-108 29th Street
Fairlawn, NJ 07410
PHONE: (201) 796-6209 ext. 101
FAX: (201) 796-1151 - FSO of Burlington County
1632 Route 38 East
Lumberton, NJ 08048
PHONE: (609) 265-8838
FAX: (609) 265-0116 - Camden County FSO
23 W Park Avenue
Merchantville, NJ 08109
PHONE: (856) 662-2600
FAX: (856) 662-2242 - FSO of Cumberland, Gloucester & Salem Counties
3739 N. Delsea Drive
Vineland, NJ 08360
PHONE: (856) 507-9400 ext. 101
FAX: (856) 507-9401 - FSO of Essex County
60 Evergreen Place, Suite 412
East Orange, NJ 07018
PHONE: (973) 395-1441
FAX: (973) 395-1595 - Family Partners of Hudson County, FSO
110B Meadowlands Parkway, Suite 305
Secaucus, NJ 07094
PHONE: (201) 915-5140
FAX: (201) 603-2660 - FSO of Hunterdon, Somerset & Warren Counties
315 West Washington Avenue
Box 11, Suite 3
Washington, NJ 07882
PHONE: (908) 223-1191
FAX: (908) 223-1639 - Mercer County FSO
3535 Quakerbridge Road
IBIS Plaza, Office Suite 400
Trenton, NJ 08619
PHONE: (609) 586-1200 ext. 225
FAX: (609) 586-0278 - FSO of Middlesex County
1 Ethel Road, Suite 108
Edison, NJ 08817
PHONE: (732) 287-8701
FAX: (732) 287-8708 - Family Based Services – Monmouth County
6 Industrial Way, Suite D
Eatontown, NJ 07724
PHONE: (732) 542-4502
FAX: (732) 542-4563 - Family Partners of Morris & Sussex Counties
67 Spring Street
Newton, NJ 07860
PHONE: (973) 940-3194
FAX: (973) 940-3197 - Ocean County FSO
36 Washington Street, Suite 201
Toms River, NJ 08753
PHONE: (732) 569-6334
FAX: (732) 569-6799 - FSO of Passaic County
3 Garret Mountain Road #204
2nd Floor, Suite 204
Woodland Park, NJ 07423
PHONE: (973) 427-0100
FAX: (973) 427-0110 - FSO of Union County
1010 Park Avenue
Plainfield, NJ 07060
Phone: (908)755-0090
Fax: (908)755-0037
NJ 211 Informational & Referral Service: Communicate with a community resource specialist who has been educated about federal, state, and local systems created to help people who are struggling. Access to a resource database of over 8,800 community programs and services that assist people who need help with food, utilities, affordable housing, rental assistance, mental and physical health, substance use disorders, childcare, senior needs, legal assistance, transportation, disability services, etc. NJ 211 also serves as the State Homeless Hotline and New Jersey’s Utility Assistance Hotline. Services are free, confidential, and multilingual. For assistance 24 hours a day, every day of the year,
Phone – simply dial 2-1-1
Text – send your zip code to 898-211
Email – info@nj211.org
back to the topMedical Coverage
Get Covered New Jersey: Get Covered New Jersey is New Jersey’s official health insurance marketplace. Open Enrollment is once each year although under certain circumstances you can enroll throughout the year. For more information, visit www.nj.gov/getcoverednj
NJ FamilyCare: New Jersey’s publicly funded health insurance program covering CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program), Medicaid, and Medicaid expansion for children; pregnant women; parents; caretaker relatives; single adults; childless couples; individuals who are elderly, blind, and have disabilities; and individuals qualified for long-term care services. Income and resource limits may apply. To apply: www.njfamilycare.org/apply.aspx. For enrollment assistance, visit: www.njfamilycare.org/ or call 1-800-701-0710.
County Boards of Social Services: offer a variety of services and programs, including SNAP, Medicaid, and cash assistance in your county. Contact your local county board for more information.
- Atlantic County
Dept of Family and Community Development
1333 Atlantic Avenue
Atlantic City, NJ 08401-8297
Tel. (609) 348-3001
Fax (609) 343-2374 - Bergen County
Board of Social Services
218 Route 17 North
Rochelle Park, NJ 07662-3300
Tel. (201) 368-4200
Fax (201) 368-8710 - Burlington County
Board of Social Services
Human Services Facility
795 Woodlane Rd
Mount Holly, NJ 08060-3335
Tel. (609) 261-1000
Fax (609) 261-0463 - Camden County
Board of Social Services
Althea R. Wright Administration Bldg.
600 Market Street
Camden, NJ 08102-1255
Tel. (856) 225-8800
Fax (856) 225-7797 - Cape May County
County Dept of Social Services
Social Services Building
3801 Route 9 South – Unit 4
Rio Grande, NJ 08242-1911
Tel. (609) 886-6200
Fax (609) 889-9332 - Cumberland County
Board of Social Services
275 North Delsea Dr.
Vineland, NJ 08360-3607
Tel. (856) 691-4600
Fax (856) 692-7635 - Essex County
Dept of Citizen Services
Division of Family Assistance
and Benefits
320 University Ave, 2nd Floor
Newark, NJ 07102
Tel. (973) 395-8000
Fax (973) 504-9316 - Gloucester County
Division of Social Services
400 Hollydell Drive
Sewell, NJ 08080
Tel. (856) 582-9200
Fax (856) 582-6587 - Hudson County
Dept of Family Services
Welfare Division
257 Cornelison Ave.
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Tel. (201) 420-3000
Fax (201) 395-4624 - Hunterdon County
Dept of Human Services
Division of Social Services
6 Gauntt Place
PO Box 2900
Flemington, NJ 08822-2900
Tel. (908) 788-1300
Fax (908) 806-4588 - Mercer County
Board of Social Services
200 Woolverton Street
PO Box 1450
Trenton, NJ 08650-2099
Tel. (609) 989-4320
Fax (609) 989-0405 - Middlesex County
Board of Social Services
181 How Lane
PO Box 509
New Brunswick, NJ 08903
Tel. (732) 745-3500
Fax (732) 745-4558 - Monmouth County
Division of Social Services
3000 Kozloski Road
PO Box 3000
Freehold, NJ 07728
Tel. (732) 431-6000
Fax (732) 431-6017Satellite Office
2405 Route 66
Ocean, NJ 07712
Tel. (732) 431-6000 - Morris County
Office of Temporary Assistance
340 W. Hanover Ave.
PO Box 900
Morristown, NJ 07963-0900
Tel. (973) 326-7800
Fax (973) 829-8531Satellite Office
325 East McFarland St
Dover, NJ 07801
Tel. (973) 682-4990 - Ocean County
Board of Social Services
1027 Hooper Avenue
PO Box 547
Toms River, NJ 08754-0547
Tel. (732) 349-1500
Fax (732) 244-8075Satellite Office
225 4th Street
Lakewood, NJ 08701
Tel. (732) 370-8854Satellite Office
333 Haywood Road
Manahawkin, NJ 08050
Tel. (609) 242-6100 - Passaic County
Board of Social Services
80 Hamilton Street
Paterson, NJ 07505-2060
Tel. (973) 881-0100
Fax (973) 881-3232 - Salem County
Board of Social Services
147 South Virginia Avenue
Penns Grove, NJ 08069-1797
Tel. (856) 299-7200
Fax (856) 299-3245 - Somerset County
Board of Social Services
73 East High Street
PO Box 936
Somerville, NJ 08876-0936
Tel. (908) 526-8800
Fax (908) 707-1941 - Sussex County
Division of Social Services
83 Spring Street
Suite 203
PO Box 218
Newton, NJ 07860
Tel. (973) 383-3600
Fax (973) 383-3627 - Union County
Division of Social Services
342 Westminster Avenue
Elizabeth, NJ 07208-3290
Tel. (908) 965-2700
Fax (908) 965-2758Satellite Office
200 West 2nd Street
Plainfield, NJ 07060
Tel. (908) 791-7000 - Warren County
Division of Temporary Assistance and Social Services
1 Shotwell Dr.
Belvidere, NJ 07823
Tel. (908) 475-6301
Fax (908) 475-1533
NJ Workability: Full New Jersey Medicaid health coverage to people with disabilities who are working and whose earnings would otherwise make them ineligible for Medicaid. To be eligible, you must be ages 16-64, working full or part-time with proof of employment, determined as disabled by the Social Security Administration OR the Disability Review Team at the Division of Medical Assistance & Health Services and have income and resources below a certain level. For more information and income and resource limits, call 888-285-3036 or visit: https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dds/services/workability/
Personal Preference Program (PPP): Offers an alternative way for NJ FamilyCare Plan members who qualify for the Personal Care Assistant (PCA) services benefit to remain in their home and active in their community and does not require the use of a home health care agency. PCA services are non-emergency, health related tasks through NJ FamilyCare. Tasks include help with activities of daily living (ADLs) and with household duties essential to the patient’s health and comfort, such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping. For more information, visit: https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dmahs/clients/njppp.html
Pharmaceutical Aid to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD): PAAD is a state program that helps eligible older adults and individuals with disabilities save money on their prescription drug costs. To be eligible you must be a NJ resident 65 or older or between ages 18 and 64 and receiving Social Security Title II Disability benefits with limited income. For information about applying PAAD contact the PAAD Hotline at 1-800-792-9745 or your county’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-877-222-3737.
Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund: Assistance program for New Jersey families whose children have an illness or condition and, as a result, have incurred expenses that remain uncovered by insurance, State or Federal programs, or other sources, such as fundraising. The child must have been 21 years old or younger when the expenses were incurred. To be eligible, qualified uncovered expenses must exceed 10 percent of the family’s income (plus 15 percent of any income over $100,000). Families may reapply annually. To apply online visit www.njcatastrophicfund.dhs.state.nj.us/cicrf or call 1-800-335-3863
Health Benefits Coverage of Children Until Age 31 (DU31): Under Chapter 375: The Dependents Under 31 law, P.L. 2005, c. 375, permits young adults to continue coverage or become covered under a parent’s group health plan as an over-age dependent until the young adult’s 31st birthday if the child is under 31, unmarried without any dependents, is a resident of NJ or at an accredited public or private institution of higher learning outside NJ, and is not covered under another medical plan. For more information visit:
https://www.state.nj.us/treasury/pensions/documents/factsheets/fact74.pdf.
Special Child Health Services: Each of NJ’s 21 counties has a Special Child Health Services Case Management Unit that works with the child’s parents, physician, and/or specialists to evaluate a child’s strengths and needs and collaborates with the family and community-based partners to develop an individual service plan (ISP) for the child and family. Following is contact information for the County Case Management Units:
- Atlantic County
(609) 909-9269 - Bergen County
(201) 634-2620 x 5 - Burlington County
(609) 914-8550 x 42837 - Camden County
(856) 374-6021 - Cape May County
(609) 465-6841 - Cumberland County
(856) 327-7602 - Essex County
(973) 395-8836 - Gloucester County
(856) 218-4111 - Hudson County
(201) 204-0004 x 7 - Hunterdon County
(908) 788-6399 - Mercer County
(609) 588-8460 - Middlesex County
(732) 745-3100 - Monmouth County
(732) 224-6950 - Morris County
(973) 971-4155 - Ocean County
(732) 341-9700 x 3 - Passaic County
(973) 523-6778 - Salem County
(856) 935-7510 x 8305 - Somerset County
(908) 725-2366 - Sussex County
(973) 948-5239 - Union County
(908) 889-0950 x 2544 - Warren County
(908) 475-7960
Personal Assistance Services Program (PASP): The PASP is a personal care assistance program that provides up to 40 hours per week of routine, non-medical personal care assistance to adults with permanent physical disabilities between the ages 18-70 who are employed, preparing for employment, attending school, or involved in community volunteer work and who can self-direct their own services. Personal assistants help with personal care tasks including, but not limited to: bathing, dressing, eating, grooming, preparing meals, shopping, light housekeeping, driving, or using public transportation. Eligibility is not income based, but there is a cost share based on income. The PASP is administered through County offices with oversight and funding provided by the DDS. For more information, visit: www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dds/services/pasp/. To apply, please contact your county PASP coordinator at the number below:
- Atlantic County
(609) 645-7700 x 4386 - Bergen County
(201) 336-6508 or
(201) 336-6502 - Burlington County
(609) 747-7745 - Camden County
(609) 261-1667 - Cape May County
(856) 825-0255 x 211 - Cumberland County
(856) 453-2220 - Essex County
(973) 395-8494 - Gloucester County
(856) 384-6845 - Hudson County
(201) 336-6508 or
(201) 336-6502 - Hunterdon County
(908) 788-1361 - Mercer County
(609) 989-6459 - Middlesex County
(732) 745-2587 or
(732) 745-4407 - Monmouth County
(732) 571-4884 - Morris County
(973) 326-7285 - Ocean County
(732) 505-3779 - Passaic County
(609) 631-2488 - Salem County
(856) 935-7510 x 8311 - Somerset County
(908) 541-5747 - Sussex County
(973) 940-5200 x 1286 - Union County
(908) 527-4845 - Warren County
(908) 475-6591
back to the topHousing and Utilities Assistance
Comfort Partners: This program is designed to improve energy affordability for income eligible households through direct installation of free energy efficiency measures and education about steps to save energy. For more information or to apply, call 1-888-773-8326 or visit: www.njcleanenergy.com/residential/programs/comfort-partners/comfort-partners.
Community Action Agencies (CAA): Offer programs to assist low-income families and individuals, such as: rental assistance, housing rehabilitation, weatherization, relocation assistance, and family self-sufficiency. For more information or to apply, please contact the agency serving your County of residence. For a list of agencies by county, visit:
www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/caalist.html.
Emergency Assistance (EA): Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients and WorkFirstNJ clients (individuals or families receiving public assistance) facing immediate risks of homelessness and those who have experienced a substantial loss of housing, food, clothing, or household furnishings due to a disaster may receive emergency assistance (EA) for a limited period of time. EA benefits may include, but are not limited to: essential food, clothing, shelter, and household furnishings; temporary rental assistance or back rent or mortgage payments; utility payments (such as heat, water, and electric); transportation to search for housing; and moving expenses. Contact your County Board of Social Services to request EA.
Homelessness Prevention Programs: Limited financial assistance to low- and moderate-income tenants in imminent danger of eviction due to temporary financial problems. You must have an
eviction or foreclosure notice. For more information or to apply, please contact the agency serving your County of residence. For a list of agencies by county, visit: www.state.nj.us/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/hpp.html
Life-Sustaining Equipment Program: If you or a member of your household rely on electricity to operate life-sustaining equipment, such as a respirator or dialysis machine, it is important that you notify your utility company. In such cases, companies work with you to prevent shutoffs
should you fall behind in paying your electric bills.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Universal Service Fund (USF): utility assistance. LIHEAP covers heating. USF covers electric and natural gas. Call 1-800-510-3102 or visit: https://www.state.nj.us/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/agencydirectorylist.html
New Jersey Housing Resource Center (NJHRC): The New Jersey Housing Resource Center has an online tool that will allow you to search thousands of affordable, subsidized and market rate units throughout New Jersey. You can customize your search based on your specific needs, budget, and desired location. The NJHRC is free, anonymous, and updated regularly. To access the NJHRC, visit: nj.gov/njhrc/ or call 1-877-428-8844.
NJ Lifeline Utility Assistance: NJ DHS. $225 per year for gas and electric for seniors and people with disabilities who meet the pharmaceutical assistance to the aged and disabled (PAAD) eligibility requirements or who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Call 1-800-792-9745 or https://njdoas-ua.force.com/njsave/quickstart
NJ SHARES (not-for-profit): assistance in energy, phone, and water bills. www.njshares.org/whereToApply/index.asp or phone at 1-866-657-4273.
New Jersey Weatherization Assistance Program (NJWAP): This program assists income eligible NJ residents in weatherizing their homes, improving their heating system efficiency and conserving energy. The NJ WAP contracts with a network of community-based organizations that deliver weatherization throughout the State. For more information call 609-984-1947.
Payment Assistance for Gas & Electric (PAGE): up to $1,500/year in benefits to pay utility bills. Must be facing a crisis situation that includes a documented notice of overdue payment for gas and/or electric service and have a past history of making regular payments towards their utility bills. call 1-855-465-8783 or visit: https://njpoweron.org/page/.
Section 8 Housing Voucher Program and the State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP): These programs help make safe and quality private housing affordable to low-income households by direct rent subsidy payments to landlords. There are waiting lists for these programs. To see if the waiting lists are accepting pre-applications, please visit the statewide open enrollment waiting list site at: www.nj.gov/dca/vouchers.html
Telephone Discounts: discount on monthly bill, based on your income or participation in other assistance programs. In general, if you participate in any of the following programs you also may qualify for telephone assistance: Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families/Work First New Jersey (TANF), General Assistance (GA), Lifeline Utility Credit/Tenants Lifeline Assistance, Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP/HEAP), Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, National School Lunch Program. The following providers participate in Lifeline Assistance and Link Up programs in New Jersey:
- Verizon New Jersey: Call NJSHARES regarding Communications Lifeline at 1-888-337-3339.
- CenturyLink/United Telephone Company of New Jersey: 1-800-201-4099, www.centurylink.com/Pages/Support/LifeLine;
- Warwick Valley Telephone: 1-800-952-7642, www.momentumtelecom.com;
- SafeLink Wireless: 1-800-977-3768, www.safelink.com;
- Virgin Mobile: Call Assurance Wireless at: 1-888- 898-4888, www.assurancewireless.com
Winter Termination Program: Administered by the board of public utilities, the Winter Termination Program (WTP) protects specific categories of customers from having their gas or electric shut off between November 15th and March 15th. Those enrolled in specific programs (such as SSI, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, USF, and Lifeline) are protected by WTP, and an additional “catch-all” category is included for people unable to pay their utility bills because of circumstances beyond their control, such as unemployment or
illness. For more information, call 800-624-0241.
back to the topFood and Nutrition
Food Pantries/Soup Kitchens: To locate local food pantries or soup kitchens, visit: www.nj211.org/ or call: NJ 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (NJ SNAP): NJ SNAP (food stamps) is a food assistance program to help individuals and families with low incomes buy groceries. Eligibility depends on household’s income, size, and resources. You can pre-screen or apply online by visiting www.NJHelps.org. You can also apply in person at your County Board of Social Services. For more information: NJ SNAP Hotline number: 1-800-687-9512 or www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/
Supplemental Nutrition-New Jersey WIC: The Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education,
breastfeeding promotion and support, immunization screening, and health care referrals to pregnant women, women who have delivered a child within the last six months, breastfeeding women who have delivered a child within the last year, and infants and children under five years old. For local WIC agencies, call: 1-800-328-3838, www.nj.gov/health/fhs/wic/index.shtml
back to the topEmployment
NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (NJ DVRS): Provides the following services: Diagnostic Evaluation, Individual Vocational Counseling and Guidance, Job Seeking Skills Training and Selective Job Placement, Employment Support Services, Post-Employment Services, Physical Restoration, Job Coaching, Vocational, Professional, or On the Job Training, Business Outreach Team, and Pre-Employment Transition Services. For more information contact: New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, 1 John Fitch Plaza, 12th Floor, PO Box 398, Trenton, NJ 08625-0398; Telephone: (609) 292-5987 or visit:
www.careerconnections.nj.gov/careerconnections/plan/foryou/disable/vocational_rehabilitation_services.shtml or
https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/special-services/individuals-with-disabilities/
AbilityJobs: Website dedicated to employment of people with disabilities. You can search through thousands of jobs and post your resume for free. Employers can utilize website to search for qualified candidates for employment openings. Visit www.abilityjobs.com.
back to the topTransportation
Access Link: New Jersey Transit’s ADA Paratransit: Access Link provides origin to destination public transportation to eligible people with disabilities who are unable to use local bus service. Individuals need to apply for eligibility. Once eligible, all rides must be scheduled by reservation. Telephone interviews are now being scheduled for those who want to be considered for paratransit eligibility. During a telephone interview, you will be asked about your disability and the impact on your ability to use NJ TRANSIT’s local fixed-route system to travel. To apply call 973-491-4224 and select option #1 or send a request for an Access Link paratransit interview to adacert@njtransit.com. You must provide your full name and phone number with all requests. For more information, visit www.accesslink.njtransit.com
Amtrak: offers additional services to passengers with disabilities. For more information: 1-800-872-7245 or visit https://www.amtrak.com/accessible-travel-services
County Paratransit: Each of the 21 counties in New Jersey provides a paratransit service for older residents and people with disabilities. For more information on local paratransit services, including hours of operation, reservation
procedures and any fees:
- Atlantic County
(609) 645-5910 - Bergen County
(201) 368-5955 - Burlington County
(877) 603-5111 - Camden County
(856) 456-3344 - Cape May County
(609) 889-3700 - Cumberland County
(856) 691-7799 - Essex County
(973) 618-1280 - Gloucester County
(856) 686-8350 - Hudson County
(201) 369-4320 - Hunterdon County
(800) 842-0531 - Mercer County
(609) 530-1971 - Middlesex County
(800) 221-3520 - Monmouth County
(732) 431-6480 - Morris County
(973) 829-8103 - Ocean County
(877) 929-2082 - Passaic County
(973) 305-5756 - Salem County
(856) 339-8644 - Somerset County
(908) 231-7115 - Sussex County
(973) 579-0480 - Union County
(908) 241-8300 - Warren County
(908) 454-4044
ModivCare (formerly LogistiCare): non-emergency medical transportation to NJ FamilyCare
clients living anywhere in the state. Passengers should call to request rides two days prior to their appointment and provide the following information:
- Your NJ FamilyCare ID number
- Your pick-up address and zip code
- Name, phone number and address of medical provider
- Appointment time and date
- Special transportation needs
To make an appointment for a ride: 1-866-527-9933. For more information about the service:
www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/home/logisticare.html.
New Jersey Transit Reduced Fare Program: Special rates are available for residents 62 years of age or older and people with disabilities. Personal assistants ride for free when proper identification is presented by the person with a disability. Even qualifying out-of-state residents can ride on NJ TRANSIT buses and trains at the reduced rate. Passengers with disabilities and those who are 65 and older may simply show their valid NJ Transit Reduced Fare ID or Medicare Card to the vehicle operator and present the appropriate fare. Those between the ages of 62-64 may be asked to present a valid ID including date of birth to get the reduced fare.
For more information: (973) 491-7112. To get an application:
62 years or older: https://d2g63oyneaimm8.cloudfront.net/sites/default/files/2019-10/sf_tr_fo_reduced_seniors_RFP_application.pdf;
Person with disabilities: https://d2g63oyneaimm8.cloudfront.net/sites/default/files/2019-10/sf_tr_fo_reduced_seniors_RFP_application.pdf
NJTIP @ Rutgers: The New Jersey Travel Independence Program (NJTIP) teaches individuals
with disabilities and older adults how to use public transportation safely and independently. NJTIP customers learn how to read bus and train schedules, plan their trips, pay their fares, and take safety precautions. The only cost to customers during training is paying their own fares. Each graduate receives a free one-month bus pass. Training is offered in English and Spanish
through one-on-one instruction, individual concierge and trip-planning services, small and large group instructions, and in-school instruction. For more information: Telephone: (848) 932-4499,
Email: njtip_info@njtip.rutgers.edu, or visit vtc.rutgers.edu/njtip/
Auto Insurance Assistance: The Special Automobile Insurance Policy (SAIP) is an initiative to help make limited coverage auto insurance available to drivers who are likely to go uninsured because of limited financial resources. The policy costs $365 for the year and is available to people who are currently enrolled in some, not all, NJ FamilyCare programs. For more information on eligibility and application call 1-800-652-2471 or visit: www.state.nj.us/dobi/division_consumers/insurance/saip.htm.
back to the topEducation
Learning Resource Centers: provide research reports, educational guides, training, and
workshops for parents and educators of students with disabilities. For information, visit
www.state.nj.us/education/lrc. Following is a list of LRCs:
- Learning Resource Center-Northern Region
7 Glenwood Avenue Suite 201
East Orange, NJ 07017
(973) 414-4491
Serving: Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, and Warren Counties - Learning Resource Center-Central Region
200 Riverview Plaza, 1st Floor
PO Box 500
Trenton, NJ 08625
(609) 376-3955
Serving: Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Somerset, and Union Counties - Learning Resource Center-Southern Region
Rowan University
James Hall 1140
1 Memorial Circle
Glassboro, NJ 08028
(856) 256-4704
Serving: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem Counties
New Jersey Early Intervention System (NJEIS): Children develop at different paces, but there are developmental milestones that children should reach by certain times during the first three years of their lives. EIS can conduct an evaluation if your child is not meeting those developmental milestones. The cost of Early Intervention services for a child is determined by their family income. Families may receive Early Intervention Services at no cost depending on their household income. For more information, call 1-888-653-4463 or visit www.state.nj.us/health/fhs/eis/.
New Jersey Specialized Child Study Team (NJSCST): Provides evaluation services for children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Visit: www.nj.gov/education/specialed/deaf/resources/.
Office of The Special Education Ombudsman: Offers valuable resources and information to support parents, students and educators regarding special education rights and services. For information: Telephone: (609) 376-9060; Email: specedombudsman@doe.nj.gov,
www.state.nj.us/education/specialed/ombudsman/.
Parental Rights In Special Education Guide (PRISE): Pamphlet describing state and federal laws on special education to help parents understand their rights in the special education
process. It is available at: www.nj.gov/education/specialed/form/prise/.
Information and Referral (I & R) Specialists (NJ DDS): Nationally Certified Information and Referral Specialists (I & R Specialists) are available during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, to provide information and to assist with navigating State and County Services available to individuals with disabilities. Contact an I & R Specialist: 1-888-285-3036, Office Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday – Friday.
Learning Disabilities Association of New Jersey: LDANJ provides information, support, and advocacy for children and adults with learning disabilities. For information: (732) 645-2738,
www.ldanj.org.
Regional Collaboratives: The Regional Early Intervention Collaboratives (REICs) are independent, non-profit corporations established to provide a community-based, culturally competent, and consumer-driven early intervention system. The collaboratives are responsible for child find, public awareness, initial referral, service coordination, training and technical assistance and family support. Following is a list of the REICs:
- Family Link Regional Early Intervention Collaborative
2333 Morris Avenue, Suite A204
Union, NJ 07083
(908) 964-5303
www.familylinkreic.org
Serving Essex, Morris, Sussex, Union, and Warren Counties - Helpful Hands Northeast Regional Early Intervention Collaborative
65 Willowbrook Blvd, Suite 405
Wayne, NJ 07470
(973) 256-8484
www.nreic.com
Serving Bergen, Hudson, and Passaic Counties - Central Jersey Family Health Consortium Regional Early Intervention Collaborative
30 Silverline Dr., 2nd Floor, Suite 1
North Brunswick, NJ 08902
(732) 937-5437
www.cjfhc.org
Serving Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, and Somerset
Counties - Southern New Jersey Regional Early Intervention Collaborative (SNJREIC)
1044 South Route 73, Suite A
Berlin, NJ 08009
(856) 768-6747
www.snjreic.org
Serving Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland,
Gloucester, and Salem Counties
NJ State Library Talking Book & Braille Center: Provides no-cost, home-delivered services, on behalf of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled to children, teens and adults in New Jersey who have difficulty reading standard print or trouble holding a book. For more information, call toll-free at 800-792-8322 or visit www.njstatelib.org/talking-book-braille-center/
The Boggs Center on Developmental Disability: Provides training and technical assistance to students and the community. The Center also conducts research and gives out information and educational materials. The Center is located at The Rutgers University Foundation, 335 George St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, telephone: (732) 235-9300 For more information about the Boggs Center visit: https://rwjms.rutgers.edu/boggscenter/
back to the topTechnology
Advancing Opportunities: Assistive Technology Services/Lending Center: Assists people with disabilities, their families, teachers, and employers identify and learn how to use the technology that will be most effective in meeting their goals. Their Technology Lending Center allows NJ residents with disabilities to borrow assistive technology for a trial period, for free. 1005 Whitehead Road Ext., Suite 1, Ewing, NJ 08638, Toll free: 1-888-322-1918 x536 or 609-882-4182 Visit:
www.assistivetechnologycenter.org.
Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC): Provides information on assistive technology and maintains a used equipment recycling program that provides used items at very low cost or
free. View available items on their website: www.at4nj.org/.
210 S. Broad Street, 3rd Floor
Trenton, NJ 08608
Toll free: 1-800-922-7233
609-292-9742
www.drnj.org/programs.htm.
Goodwill Home Medical Equipment: Refurbishes donated home medical equipment and offers it to individuals and families at low costs.
300 Benigno Blvd.
Bellmawr, NJ
(609) 396-1513
www.goodwillhomemedical.orgNational Disability Institute: Assistive Technology Loan Program: Provides affordable loans of $500 to $30,000 to residents of New Jersey and New York., (202) 449-9521.
www.realeconomicimpact.org/asset-development/assistive-technologyloan-program.
back to the topAdvocacy & Support
NJ Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD): The NJCDD provides a forum for public and private agencies serving individuals with disabilities to come together with consumers, family members, and advocates, to develop a coordinated social policy. The Council also funds projects to educate and inform decision-makers, legislators, and the public about developmental disabilities
NJCDD
Mary Roebling Building
20 West State Street, 6th Floor
PO Box 700
Trenton, NJ 08625-0700
Phone: 1-800-792-8858
Email:
njcdd@njcdd.org https://njcdd.org/Regional Family Support Planning Councils (RFSPCs): RFSPCs are part of the NJCCD and provide a venue for parents and family members of people with developmental disabilities to exchange knowledge and information about available family support services. RFSPC members advise state agencies how they can best meet the needs of families and individuals with developmental disabilities. All 21 counties are represented by 10 regional councils. To find the council representing your county, visit: www.njcdd.org/the-regional-family-support-planning-councils/family-support-planning-councils
Ombudsman for Individuals With Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities And Their Families: The Ombudsman serves as the administration’s lead advocate and ally for New Jersey residents with intellectual or developmental disabilities of all ages and their families. The Ombudsman provides guidance and assistance for individuals and families who are having difficulty receiving the services they need. www.disabilityombudsman.nj.gov/
Christine Bakter, Associate Director
PO Box 205
Trenton, NJ 08625
Email: Christine.Bakter@treas.nj.gov
Phone: (609) 984-7764
Care2Caregivers Program: Peer-lead support program for those providing care for a family member or friend diagnosed with dementia. For information: 800-424-2494, www.care2caregivers.com
The Caregiver Action Network (CAN): The Caregiver Action Network is the nation’s leading family caregiver organization working to improve the quality of life for those who care for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, disease, or the frailties of old age. CAN serves a broad spectrum of family caregivers ranging from the parents of children with special needs, to the families and friends of wounded soldiers; from a young couple dealing with a diagnosis of MS, to adult children caring for parents with Alzheimer’s disease. Free of charge. For information: (202) 454-3970, 855-227-3640 (toll free), www.caregiveraction.org.
Centers for Independent Living (CILs): CILs are community-based, consumer-driven organizations designed to support individuals with disabilities by providing a multitude of services based on individual needs, such as life skills training, advocacy, information and referral, peer counseling, socialization, and community-based activities. Membership is open to all people with disabilities, their able-bodied friends, and supporters. Following is a list of CILs:
- Atlantic County
Atlantic Center For Independent Living
160 South Pitney Road
Units 3 & 4
Galloway, NJ 08205
(609) 748-2253
www.atlanticcil.org/index.html - Bergen County
Heightened Independence & Progress (HIP)
131 Main Street, Suite 120
Hackensack, NJ 07601
(201) 996-9100
www.hipcil.org - Burlington County
Resources For Independent Living (RIL)
351 High Street, Suite 103
Burlington City, NJ 08016
(609) 747-7745
www.rilnj.org - Camden County
Center For Independent Living Of South Jersey, Inc. (CIL-SJ)
1150 Delsea Drive, Suite 1 & 2
Westville, NJ 08093
(856) 853-6490
www.cil-sj.com - Camden City
Camden City Independent Living Center
Virtua Camden
1000 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 105
Camden, NJ 08104
(856) 966-0800
www.camdenilc.org/ - Cape May County
Resources For Independent Living (RIL)
351 High Street, Suite 103
Burlington City, NJ 08016
(609) 747-7745
www.rilnj.org - Cumberland County
Resources For Independent Living (RIL)
351 High Street, Suite 103
Burlington City, NJ 08016
(609) 747-7745
www.rilnj.org - Essex County
DIAL, Inc.
2 Prospect Village Plaza, 1st Floor
Clifton, NJ 07013
(973) 470-8090
VRS: (973) 556-0226
www.dial-cil.org - Gloucester County
Center For Independent Living of South Jersey, Inc. (CIL-SJ)
1150 Delsea Drive, Suite 1 & 2
Westville, NJ 08093
(856) 853-6490
www.cil-sj.com - Hudson County
Heightened Independence & Progress-Hudson
35 Journal Square, Suite 703
Jersey City, NJ 07306
(201) 533-4407
www.hipcil.org - Hunterdon County
Progressive Center For Independent Living (PCIL)
Hunterdon County Branch
1220 Route 31 North Suite 14
Lebanon, NJ 08833
(908) 782-1055
1-877-376-9174
www.pcil.org - Mercer County
Progressive Center For Independent Living (PCIL)
Mercer County Branch
3525 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 904
Hamilton, NJ 08619
(609) 581-4500
www.pcil.org - Middlesex County
Alliance Center For Independence
629 Amboy Avenue,
1st Floor, Suite 104
Edison, NJ 08837
(732) 738-4388
www.adacil.org - Monmouth County
MOCEANS Center For Independent Living
565 Broadway, Suite 105
Long Branch, NJ 07740
(732) 571-4884
www.moceanscil.org - Morris, Sussex & Warren Counties
DAWN, Inc.
66 Ford Road, Suite 121
Denville, NJ 07834
(973) 625-1940
1-888-383-DAWN
(1-888-383-3296)
VRS: (973) 453-4689
www.dawncil.org - Ocean County
MOCEANS Center For Independent Living
1027 Hooper Avenue, Building 6,
3rd Floor
Toms River, NJ 08753
(732) 505-2310
www.moceanscil.org - Passaic County
DIAL, Inc.
2 Prospect Village Plaza, First Floor
Clifton, NJ 07013
Toll Free: (866) 277-1733
VRS: (973) 556-0226
www.dial-cil.org - Salem County
Resources For Independent Living (RIL)
351 High Street, Suite 103
Burlington City, NJ 08016
(609) 747-7745
www.rilnj.org - Somerset County
Alliance Center For Independence
629 Amboy Avenue,
1st Floor, Suite 104
Edison, NJ 08837
(732) 738-4388
www.adacil.org - Union County
Alliance Center For Independence
629 Amboy Avenue
1st Floor, Suite 104
Edison, NJ 08837
(732) 738-4388
www.adacil.org
The Collaborative for Citizen Directed Supports NJ Interactive Map – A non-profit organization sponsors an interactive virtual map indicating where Direct Support Providers and Self-Directed Employees enrolled with NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities are available for work so that people with developmental disabilities and their families can contact them directly for an immediate start date. People with developmental disabilities and their families in need of services can also post their request for support on The Map. https://www.thecollaborativenj.org/nj-interactive-map.html
SPAN Parent Advocacy Network: This nonprofit group provides education to families and professionals, family workshops, support groups and advocacy in the following areas: effective
parent involvement, child-care, general and special education, dropout and bullying prevention, child welfare, health care, mental health, youth leadership, transition to adult life, incarcerated youth, military family support, violence prevention and more.
35 Halsey Street, 4th Floor
Newark, NJ 07102
Toll free: 1-800-654-7726
www.spanadvocacy.org back to the top