A $250,000 state grant from the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing has been given to help the Community Affairs and Resource Center (CARC) in Asbury Park provide assistance and stabilization services for families who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness in Monmouth County.
The center is a nonprofit social service organization that has provided a variety of programs and services for 40 years from its main office at 913 Sewall Ave. and a satellite office in Freehold.
“The Community Affairs and Resource Center in Asbury Park does outstanding work to support survivors of domestic violence, educate residents about health and wellness, combat homelessness, and so much more,” Sen.Vin Gopal (D-Long Branch) said. “This grant is well-deserved, and I look forward to seeing how CARC’s staff and board can use these funds to help our neighbors stay in the homes that they love.”
The center provides assistance such as paying the first month’s rent, rent that is in arrears, security deposits and utilities for individuals and families at risk of losing their homes.
“Homelessness has many causes – loss of work, injury, unanticipated medical bills – that may be out of a person’s control but can leave their family trapped in poverty. CARC can give them a chance to turn their lives around,” said Eric Houghtaling (D-Neptune). “In addition to combating homelessness, the Community Affairs and Resource Center helps people in need improve their lives by giving them the tools to find better jobs and create opportunities for their families,”
“CARC is one of the very few social service providers in Monmouth County that can effectively provide multilingual, multicultural diversity in its services,” said Joann Downey (D-Freehold). “Their work not only addresses the needs of individuals, it empowers individuals to contribute their talents and skills to building a stronger community.”
“Community Affairs and Resource Center is very pleased DCA has awarded us this grant and the opportunity to assist the homeless population of Monmouth County,” said CARC Program Director Belinda Cueto. “CARC provides assistance in securing stable housing and being a support system so that those facing adverse challenges can focus on rebuilding their lives. We look forward to making a difference and improving their quality of life.”
