In 2006, Bethel received their first of many grants from the NJ State Office of Faith-Based Initiatives. Initially, this program was entitled “TANF Outreach” and allowed us to reach out to those individuals who had recently left the TANF rosters due to employment. The goal was to provide them with the necessary support services to help them maintain their current employment status. The grant allowed us to provide services in Cumberland and Salem Counties.
In 2008, under new guidelines from the State, the program was changed to a “Sanction Outreach” which drastically changed the faces of those we conducted outreach to in the community. Now instead of helping those individuals who were gainfully employed, we are now reaching out to those individuals who have reached a Sanction status with the Welfare office. Monthly lists are received and we continue to reach out via mail, phone and home visits to those individual who struggled with compliance to Welfare’s requirements to keep them benefits. The goal is now to assist these individuals in becoming compliant so that they can again receive their cash and food stamp assistance. Our team of case manager’s work with the client to help them overcome existing barriers to their success on the program through intensive case management and interagency referrals. Services provided include: utility assistance, rental assistance, child care referrals, and educational programs. Our Neighborhood Services Office is open Monday through Friday from 9AM – 4:30PM. Appointments are recommended to ensure that personalized attention is given to each participant in assessing their needs.