Press Release
PERTH AMBOY – Every year, during the last week in January, a “Point in Time” survey is conducted by Middlesex County. This annual survey helps to develop a snapshot of the number of, and reasons for, homeless persons in our County. On January 26, 2016, 294 households containing 457 individuals reported being “literally homeless” (in emergency housing or on the street) in Middlesex County. Of these, 373 persons were temporarily sheltered, including 135 households with children, and 84 were unsheltered, including 9 children.
In partnership with God’s Army Ministries and other community agencies, the YMCA’s Center for Support, Success & Prosperity assists individuals and families to overcome homelessness. At the Y, we believe the desire to belong and help others is human nature, because everyone has something of value to contribute to the greater good. We serve as a catalyst for positive change in Perth Amboy, bringing people together and giving them opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and their own lives. In 2016 alone, The Y ‘s Center for Support , through Pastor Berny and God’s Army Ministries, along with the help of many supporters served almost 8000 meals to homeless and underprivileged individuals, provided nearly 250 shelter nights of care to homeless individuals and families, and distributed clothing and hygiene products to more than 150 individuals and families in need. The Center also provided rental assistance and security deposits to over 100 individuals, and helped placed over 120 individuals into permanent housing. Furthermore, The Center for Support, through Pastor Berny and her team at God’s Army Ministries provided over 4000 hours of Case Management in critical areas such as support for newly housed individuals and families, addiction services, legal assistance, medical services, domestic violence and much, much more.
The Center for Support, Success & Prosperity program and services would not be possible without the support of contributions to sustain this critical work. If you would like to be PART of SOMETHING BIGGER join us on September 21st at our Ending Homelessness Event or text “ENDING” to 91999 to make a donation.
