Assistance Programs and Directory of Resources
This list of resources and links has been compiled by library staff and focuses on governmental assistance programs, non-profit assistance resources and local resources. The is NOT and exhaustive list and detailed information is found by utilizing the links listed below. We hope this will serve as a helpful directory for locating assistance resources in multiple areas of need. Resources are organized alphabetically by category and then subcategory.
Navigate to the Topic You Are Interested In
*information on other topics will be coming soon
Family and Child Resources
Fraud and Scam Protection
Personal Finance
Retirement and Social Security
Retirement Resources
Social Security Resources
Utility Assistance
Other
Animal Welfare
General National Level Resources
Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service - APHIS is the primary US federal agency for animal welfare, an agency of the USDA. Their work centers around animal and plant health, but their programs also address animal welfare, biotechnology, wildlife damage management, and global trade. APHIS' Animal Care program enforces the Animal Welfare Act and the Horse Protection Act.
Phone 970-494-7478
Email animalcare@usda.gov
ASPCA - The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has been at the forefront of animal rescue and protection since their founding in 1866. Some of their services include vital veterinary care, responding to disasters, pioneering adoption and behavioral rehabilitation programs, conducting critical animal welfare research, training law enforcement and shelter professionals, and advocating for more effective laws.
Phone (212) 876-7700
Humane World for Animals
(Formerly The Humane Society of the United States) - The Humane Society is a recognized leader in animal welfare, leading the way in animal protection. They provide sanctuaries for on-site dog training for wounded warriors and animal rescue training, disaster relief stations across the country for emergency animal rescues, Second Chance Grants offering financial assistance for rescue groups and shelters, and wildlife protection via habitat restoration and conservation programs worldwide.
Phone: 1-800-227-4645
Email: info@americanhumane.org
Best Friends Animal Society - Best Friends operates the nation’s largest sanctuary for homeless animals and provides adoption, spay/neuter, and educational programs. They partner with thousands of animal shelters, rescue groups, and other animal welfare groups, all working to save the lives of dogs and cats across the country, facilitating adoption, fostering, and advocating to help save the lives of animals nationwide.
Phone 435-688-2327
Email: info@bestfriends.org
New Jersey Resources
Associated Humane Societies - Associated Humane Society is the largest NJ animal sheltering organization, rescuing stray and homeless animals, both domestic and wildlife, as well as providing low-cost veterinary care and education for animal care. Services they offer include a 24 hour wildlife ambulance, comprehensive medical facilities, preventative healthcare such as inoculations and spay/neutering procedures, and legislation efforts to curtail animal cruelty in New Jersey.
Phone 973-824-7080
Contact https://ahscares.org/contact-us/
Animal Welfare Association - Animal Welfare Association is the oldest and largest low-cost pet clinic and no-kill animal shelter in South Jersey, known for their adoptions, veterinary services, pet therapy, and trap-neuter-return. AWA also puts a strong emphasis on community engagement through educational outreach programs, kids camps, toddler classes, corporate cuddles, pet training, a pet food pantry, and scout badge opportunities.
Animal Protection League of New Jersey - The APLNJ advocates for animal welfare legislation in the state of NJ by working closely with the public and policy makers, promoting lifestyle changes, programs, and laws that enable nonviolent coexistence with animals. One of their main objectives is wildlife advocacy, presenting humane solutions to conflict between people and wildlife.
Phone 732-446-6808
Email info@aplnj.org
St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center - With a people-focused, community-based approach, St. Hubert’s supports New Jersey communities with programs that help animals stay with their families, such as pet food banks, vaccine clinics and emergency pet boarding.
Bergen County Resources
The Bergen County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center - The official Bergen County facility providing animal control, established as a no-kill shelter as of 2015. They serve 49 towns in Bergen and Hudson counties, with an active network of volunteers, rescues, foster families, and trap-neuter-return communities.
Phone 201-229-4616
Email shelter@bergencountynj.gov
Ramapo Bergen Animal Refuge, Inc. - RBARI is the leading no-kill shelter in the area that protects abandoned, abused, and unwanted animals by finding them loving homes. Established 40 years ago, they have been able to provide medical care, shelter, food and training for the most vulnerable animals in need. They take in cats, dogs, and small animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits.
Phone 201-337-5180
Local / Ramsey / Charity Resources
Simba’s Sanctuary - Ramsey-based rescue and adoption sanctuary for cats of all ages. Their volunteers work to rehabilitate, socialize, and nurture each cat to facilitate adoption. They advocate for spay and neuter practices not only to prevent unwanted pregnancies but also to reduce the risk of certain cancers and prevent behavioral issues related to mating instincts.
Phone 201-661-8141
Contact https://simbasonline.org/contact
Employment and Job Resources
General Information National Level
US Department of Labor - Executive department of the US federal government responsible for the administration of federal laws governing occupational health, wage and hour standards, unemployment benefits, reemployment services, and economic statistics.
How to file for unemployment benefits
Phone 1-866-487-2365
American Job Centers - Nationwide network of centers offering free services to job seekers, including workshops, job search assistance, training, and computer access.
Phone 1-877-872-5627
National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) - National organization representing all 50 state workforce agencies, D.C. and U.S. territories. These agencies deliver training, employment, career, business and wage and hour services, in addition to administering the unemployment insurance, veteran reemployment and labor market information programs.
Email naswa@naswa.org
New Jersey Resources
NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development - New Jersey’s primary agency for employment services, providing resources for job seekers and employers. They administer several key programs in the state including unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation, temporary disability insurance program, family leave, and wage and hour enforcement.
Am I eligible for unemployment?
Family leave and disability insurance
Look for a job or take courses to upgrade your skills
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NJ CAN 360 - The New Jersey Career Assistance Navigator 360 is an online career navigation system for accurate, current, and relevant occupational information. NJCAN 360 also contains the latest national, New Jersey, and local labor market data and projections updated regularly by the NJ Department of Labor as well as resources for those seeking employment. Create a profile on their portal to perform job search preparation, resume and cover letter creation, apprenticeship and training opportunities, and explore military opportunities.
Email NJCAN@doe.nj.gov
Phone 541-346-2374
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Easter Seals NJ - Easterseals New Jersey offers various disability and mental health services to help people with various needs address life’s challenges across 21 counties in New Jersey. They offer multiple employment sites/community rehabilitation programs throughout the state, offering pre-vocational evaluation, work adjustment training, school-to-work transition, supported employment, extended employment, and job placement services.
Phone 855-215-4541
Bergen County Resources
Bergen County Job Center - Partner of the American Job Center network, Bergen County Job Center provides free employment-related help to employers and job seekers, including resume development, career counseling, training opportunities, recruitment services, job search and referrals.
Job referrals and career services
Need job training or financial assistance with tuition?
Specialized support for veterans and those with disabilities
Phone 201-329-9600
ESL - English as Second Language
Online Resources for Teachers & Students:
Citizenship Resource Center – The Citizenship Resource Center has a collection of helpful resources
and free study materials for a variety of users including immigrants who are interested in becoming U.S.
citizens, educators who play a critical role in preparing learners, and organizations that are interested in
supporting immigrants in becoming citizens.
News for You – This website offers easy-to-read news stories that can help you learn to read, write,
speak, and understand the English language.
BBC: Learning English – As part of the BBC World Service, BBC Learning English has been teaching
English to global audiences since 1943, offering free audio, video and text materials to learners around
the world.
Voice of America: Learning English – Learning English is VOA’s multimedia source of news and
information for millions of English learners worldwide.
Oxford English Learner’s Dictionary – Oxford’s advanced-level dictionary for learners of English.
Cambridge Learner’s Dictionary – The Cambridge Learner’s Dictionary has the words, phrases, and
collocations that intermediate learners of British English need to know.
BBC Learning English – Learn English with the BBC on Youtube. They publish new videos, podcasts,
tutorials and lessons every week to help you learn and improve your English speaking, listening,
vocabulary and pronunciation.
Literacy Minnesota Trainings & Workshops - Literacy Minnesota was established over 50 years ago on
the premise that literacy is power and offers a wealth of resources to help both educators and learners.
ESL Vault - Free ESL and English teaching resources including picture prompts, vocabulary & writing
worksheets, puzzles, and more.
Mango Languages - available through the Ramsey Library with a free Ramsey Library card
Mango Languages offers language courses with Adaptive Learning Technology for learning centered around you.
Over 70 world languages and more than 20 English courses
Specialty courses that cover a range of culturally specific topics
Downloadable lessons for offline access
Bluetooth synching and auto play for hands-free learning
Study reminders for staying on track
Additional Family Profiles for group learning
Placement tests to begin exactly where your skillset suits you
Mango app available for both Apple and Android devices
Available for free for anyone with a Ramsey Library card. You’ll just need your library card number to get your account set up and then you are ready to go!
Click here for a Guide on Getting Started
Food Security
National Level Resources
SNAP Program - Also known as the food stamp program, SNAP (supplemental nutrition assistance program) is a federal program that provides food-purchasing assistance for people of low or no income. It is administered by the USDA and the amount of SNAP benefits received by a household depends on the household's size, income, and expenses.
Phone: 1-800-221-5689
The WIC Program - WIC (women, infant and children) is a US federal program that provides free, healthy foods and personalized nutrition education, breastfeeding support, referrals to other services and more to low- and moderate-income pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age five at risk of nutrition-related health issues. Participants receive benefits, typically on an eWIC card, for essential groceries like fruits, vegetables, milk, eggs, and cereal.
Phone 1-800-328-3838
Feeding America - The Feeding America network consists of food banks, food pantries, local meal programs and the Feeding America national organization. They work with farmers, manufacturers, retailers and government agencies to save unwanted food from landfills and move donated grocery items to where it is needed most. Network food banks collect, sort and distribute these donations to local food pantries and meal programs. Food pantries and meal programs in the network then distribute the food directly to people in their communities.
Phone 800-771-2303
New Jersey Resources
Community FoodBank of New Jersey - CFBNJ is a member of Feeding America and works to end hunger by distributing food to more than 800 community partners – including food pantries, soup kitchens, and child and senior feeding programs – and by connecting neighbors in need with supportive solutions.
Phone 908-355-3663
Basic Needs NJ - An online resource for New Jersey college students to find food and other essential services. Their website is designed to help connect individuals with state programs and community-based services that can provide critical access to food, housing and shelter, childcare, transportation, financial aid, and more.
Center for Food Action - CFA is a non-profit, 501 (c)(3) organization that provides emergency services to northern New Jersey’s poorest and most vulnerable residents. CFA provides food, housing, utility, and heating assistance and offers counseling and advocacy services to low-income individuals and families.
Phone 201-569-1804
Email inquiry@cfanj.org
Hunger Free NJ - Hunger Free NJ is the leading advocacy organization working to end hunger in New Jersey. They are a program of the Center for Food Action, which provides emergency services to Northern NJ.
Take part in the fight by signing petitions
Phone 201-569-1804
Email hungerfreenj@cfanj.org
The Food Brigade - A New Jersey nonprofit organization that provides both prepared meals and fresh and packaged goods to families and individuals dealing with food insecurity. They also distribute meals and bags of groceries from their pantry location. Families in need place online food orders in our virtual "choice pantry" storefront, which they then pick up at their scheduled appointment times.
Request to receive registration form
Phone 201-614-4414
Email hq@foodbrigade.org
Bergen County Resources
Bergen County Office of Food Security - The Bergen County Office of Food Security was formed in 2020 due to the skyrocketing need caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. They strive to create a more resilient network of emergency food providers by supplementing pantry distributions, building relationships between partners, and investing in vital infrastructure.
Food pantries in Bergen County
Email OfficeOfFoodSecurity@bergencountynj.gov
Bergen County Meals on Wheels - Bergen County Meals on Wheels offers home-delivered meals to maintain health through improved nutrition and enable homebound senior citizens to remain in the community with independence and dignity. To be eligible, persons must be age 60 or older; homebound and unable to leave home without the assistance of another person; unable to shop or prepare a nutritious meal for oneself and have no one to assist with meals; receive no more than 4-hours of in-home assistance during the day; not a Medicaid recipient of Managed Long-Term Services and Support.
Phone 201-336-7420
Email seniors@bergencountynj.gov
Family Promise of Bergen County - Family Promise of Bergen County is an affiliate of Family Promise, which has over 200 affiliates across the country. Since 1991, the Family Promise Walk-In Dinner Program has provided dinner to approximately 150 people in our community, 365 days a year, no questions asked. Volunteers from our network of congregations, businesses, civic organizations and schools prepare and serve dinner at the Bergen County Housing Health and Human Services Center in Hackensack.
Phone 201-833-8009
Local / Ramsey / Charity Resources
Ramsey Responds Food Pantry - Ramsey Responds is a community-based charitable organization made up of volunteers dedicated to helping residents in need. In times of hardship, they provide assistance towards rent, mortgage, utilities, food, and other essential needs.
Phone 201-312-4843
Email ramseyresponds@gmail.com
Address: Grace Bible Church, 191 North Central Avenue, Ramsey NJ
Center for Food Action Mahwah - CFA provides food assistance to local families and individuals in northern New Jersey. Once every three weeks, households living in Bergen County or northern Passaic County can make an appointment to receive a box of non-perishable food, along with fresh produce, meat, dairy, and bread, as available. You can make an appointment online or over the phone.
Phone 201-529-2029
Address: 90 Ridge Road, Mahwah, NJ 07430
The Tri-Boro Food Pantry - Known throughout the Pascack Valley for their commitment to helping people live, providing not only food but also household items, toiletries, dry goods and school supplies. Hunger affects people from all walks of life and over 90% of the families who come to the Tri-Boro food pantry are from the Tri-Boro area.
Phone 201-573-9083
Email triborofoodpantry@gmail.com
Address: 65 Pascack Road, Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Social Service Association Food Pantry - SSA manages the Red Door Food Pantry located at the train station in Ridgewood NJ. SSA provides food assistance to over 500 local individuals and families during times of hardship to ensure that our neighbors don’t go hungry.
Thanksgiving meals for families
Phone 201-444-2980
Email info@ssaridgewood.org
Address: 6 Station Plaza, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Ridgewood YMCA Food Security Program - The YMCA of Ridgewood offers various food assistance programs including their weekly food box distribution and the Beyond Pantry, along with essential partnerships with organizations like Table to Table and the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. The Ridgewood Y Beyond Pantry goes beyond the traditional food pantry, offering shelf-stable foods, frozen and refrigerated goods, cleaning supplies, toiletries and personal hygiene products, and even children’s toys and games.
Subscribe to weekly food box alerts
Phone 201-444-5600
Email questions about SNAP snap@ridgewoodymca.org
Address: 112 Oak Street, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
Health Resources
General Information National Level
Health Resources and Services Administration - HRSA is a federal agency that works to improve access to healthcare services for uninsured, isolated, or medically vulnerable people. Their programs provide healthcare to people who are geographically isolated and economically vulnerable.
Find an HRSA-funded Health Center
Find a Healthy Start Center for Pregnancy
Call or Text 1-833-TLC-MAMA for Maternal Support
MedlinePlus - MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their loved ones. It is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Health Info in Other Languages
Learn About Your Prescriptions
Centers for Disease Control - The CDC serves the American public by providing accurate data, health guidance, and preventive measures. As the world's premier public health institute, the CDC is at the frontlines of public health threats to Americans, even when those threats emerge overseas.
American Public Health Association - APHA is an advocacy organization for public health professionals in the United States. They make up the largest organization of public health professionals in the United States and hosts the largest gathering of public health professionals in the world at their annual meeting and exhibition. They champion optimal, equitable health and well-being for all and speak out for public health issues and policies backed by science.
Recover Covid Initiative - The National Institutes of Health created the Recover Initiative to find answers across many different types of research studies. Recover brings together clinicians, scientists, caregivers, patients, and community members to understand, treat, and prevent long covid. We’ve created the world’s most comprehensive and diverse group of long covid study participants.
Long Covid Alliance - The Long Covid Alliance is a network of patient-advocates, scientists, disease experts, and drug developers who have joined together to leverage their collective knowledge and resources to educate policy makers and accelerate research to transform our understanding of post-viral illness.
Resources for Patients and Caregivers
New Jersey Resources
NJ Department of Health - The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s healthcare..
NJ Family Care - NJ FamilyCare is federal and state-funded health insurance program created to help qualified New Jersey residents of any age access affordable health insurance. NJ FamilyCare is for people who do not have employer insurance.
Phone 1-800-701-0710
Get Covered NJ - Get Covered NJ is the state’s official health insurance marketplace. Individuals and families can easily shop for and buy health coverage, and receive financial help. Their site allows you to compare health plans, calculate costs, and to choose the plan that works best for you and your family. It is the only place to apply for financial help to lower your monthly insurance premium and out-of-pocket costs.
Find Local Assistance to Enroll
Phone 1-833-677-1010 TTY 711
NJ Save - Through the Department of Human Services and the Division of Aging Services, NJSave is an online application to help low-income older adults and individuals with disabilities save money on Medicare premiums, prescription costs, and other living expenses. The Division of Aging Services administers a number of federal and state-funded programs that make it easier for older adults to live in the community as long as possible with independence.
Phone 1-800-792-9745
New Jersey Citizen Action - At New Jersey Citizen Action Education Fund, their goal is to ensure that every resident has the information and support needed to make confident decisions about their health coverage. They provide free, accessible, and personalized assistance to explore coverage options for the first time, renew coverage, or seek guidance on available programs.
Healthcare Enrollment Assistance
Phone 1-888-654-3893
Email getcovered@njcitizenaction.org
Hearing Aid Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (HAAAD) - HAAAD is a state program that is part of the NJ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, offering assistance for those in need of hearing aids. HAAAD provides up to a $500 reimbursement to offset the purchase of a hearing aid or up to a $1,000 reimbursement to offset the purchase of two hearing aids to eligible individuals.
Phone 1-800-792-9745
Bergen County Resources
Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative - BVMI delivers free, high-quality healthcare to Bergen County’s working uninsured, helping them live healthy, productive lives. BVMI has a dedicated team of 75 volunteer healthcare professionals providing care to 1,000 patients annually. They see patients 5 days a week, both in the clinic and via telehealth. Located at 75 Essex St, Hackensack, NJ 07601.
Phone 201-342-2478
Email info@bvmi.net
Bergen ResourceNet - Bergen ResourceNet is a free online directory of services, support groups, events, webinars, workshops specific to the health and wellbeing of youth up to 21 and families in your community and throughout Bergen County. They offer a centralized resource for anyone looking for community-based, health-related programs and services in Bergen County. Located at 3 University Plaza Drive, Suite 300, Hackensack, NJ 07601.
Phone 201-634-2608
Email info@bergenresourcenet.org
Planned Parenthood - An American nonprofit organization that provides reproductive and sexual healthcare and sexual education in the United States and globally. They offer a wide array of services, including birth control, emergency contraception, abortion, pregnancy testing and planning, hiv and std testing and treatment, vaccines and gender-affirming care. The Bergen County location is 575 Main St, Hackensack, NJ 07601.
Phone 833-377-8474
Housing
General Information National Level
US Department of Housing and Development - An executive department of the federal government, administering housing and urban development laws. They provide information and resources for homebuyers, homeowners, property residents/renters, and people experiencing homelessness. Under the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, they offer housing assistance to over 2.3 million American families.
Find affordable places to live
Phone 800-225-5342
Email recovery@hud.gov
USA.GOV Housing Help - USA.gov is the official website of the U.S. government. The mission of the USAGov program is to make it easier for people to find and understand the government services and information they need—anytime, anywhere, any way they want. Get information about rental, home buying, and home repair assistance programs. Learn how to find emergency housing and avoid foreclosure and eviction.
Housing assistance for Native Americans
Phone 1-844-872-4681
USDA Rural Development - RD is committed to helping improve the economy and quality of life in rural America. They offer loans and grants to help support economic development and essential services such as housing, and help rural residents buy or rent safe, affordable housing and make health and safety repairs to their homes.
Buy, build, refinance or repair your home
Build or manage multi-family homes
National Low Income Housing Coalition - NLIHC is a nonprofit policy advocacy and research organization based in Washington, DC. They advocate to achieve racially and socially equitable public policy that ensures people with the lowest incomes have quality homes that are accessible and affordable in communities of their choice.
Phone 202-662-1530
Email outreach@nlihc.org
995 Hope - The Homeownership Preservation Foundation (HPF) guides consumers onto the path of sustainable homeownership and financial health. They work directly with homeowners offering free, confidential and comprehensive financial and foreclosure prevention education through their national Homeowner’s HOPE hotline.
Renter counseling and resources
Homebuyers and reverse mortgages
Phone 1-888-995-4673 (dial 711 for hearing impaired)
New Jersey Resources
New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency - NJHMFA helps to implement programs that fund affordable mortgages for first-time home buyers, provide foreclosure prevention support and foreclosure hardship relief, generate the construction and rehabilitation of rental housing, and offer foreclosure prevention support and foreclosure hardship relief.
Emergency rescue mortgage assistance
Phone 609-278-7400
Email askstaff@njhmfa.gov
Department of Community Affairs - DCA provides a wide range of services addressing needs in housing assistance, housing production, community development, neighborhood revitalization and improvement, energy assistance and community services.
Phone 609-292-4080
Email customer.service@dca.nj.gov
New Jersey Housing Resource Center - The NJHRC website was created by the NJHMFA to provide a central location for New Jersey residents to search for available, affordable, and accessible housing units throughout the state.
Phone 1-877-428-8844
New Jersey State Homeless Hotline - NJ 211 serves as the state homeless hotline and seeks to assist those experiencing homelessness by connecting them with community resources that may help them with breaking the cycle of homelessness.
Phone 2-1-1
Text your zip code to 898-211
Email info@nj211.org
Affordable Housing Professionals NJ - The Affordable Housing Professionals of NJ is an independent organization, whose primary mission is to promote and enhance professionalism and knowledge in the field by supporting affordable housing through dialogue, ethical standards, education, advocacy and policy guidance.
Community Hope NJ - Community Hope is the leading nonprofit serving homeless veterans and families in New Jersey. They provide transitional housing, permanent supportive housing, rapid re-housing and homelessness prevention.
Phone 973-463-9600
New Jersey Citizen Action - NJCA is a statewide coalition and grassroots organization that combines political advocacy, electoral campaigns, public outreach, and community empowerment programs to make a real difference in the lives of everyday people. They provide education and research into healthcare, financial justice, workplace protections, anti-poverty and tax fairness.
Loan counseling 1-800-656-9637
Taxes 1-888-829-3711
Bergen County Resources
Bergen County Housing, Health, & Human Services Center - Their objective is to end homelessness by providing a full continuum of housing services including homelessness prevention, temporary shelter, and permanent placement. Open 24 hours a day, they serve as a one-stop location and single point of entry for individuals to receive information, care management, health and human services, and financial assistance. Located at 120 South River St, Hackensack, NJ.
Phone 201-336-7600
Email info@habcnj.org
Bergen HEARTS - The HEARTS program helps Bergen County families who are experiencing a homeless emergency find and transition to a healthy, safe, and secure living environment in order to live independently in the community. They partner with homeless families and community service providers in intense case management activities while engaging in advocacy efforts and leveraging inter-agency resources across the county. Located at 40 Passaic Street, 2nd Floor, Hackensack, NJ, walk-ins welcome.
Phone 201-634-3060
Family Promise of Bergen - Family Promise of Bergen County is an affiliate of Family Promise.They empower working families facing housing insecurity to become self-sufficient by providing temporary housing and personalized support, as well as address food insecurity in the community. Located at 100 Dayton St, Ridgewood NJ.
Phone 201-833-8009
Greater Bergen Community Action - GBCA provides a wide range of programs assisting the unhoused, the poor, at-risk youth, senior citizens, those in recovery, and the unemployed. They provide investments in community and household finance, housing, energy, education and neighborhood revitalization. Located at 392 Main St, Hackensack, NJ.
Phone 201-968-0200
Email info@greaterbergen.org
Habitat for Humanity Bergen County - Habitat for Humanity has helped more than 62 million people in countries around the world build their futures on their own terms through access to decent housing. Their community programs include helping to build, repair, and finance homes, innovating new ways of building and financing, and advocating for policies that make construction of and access to housing easier. Located at 121 Carver Ave, Westwood, NJ.
Phone 201-457-1020
Email info@habitatbergen.org
Rebuilding Together North Jersey - RTNJ is an independent affiliate of Rebuilding Together, Inc., a national nonprofit that is dedicated to providing critical home repairs and improvements for low-income homeowners. They offer low-income homeowners with modifications needed to live safely in their homes. Located at 341 Ramapo Valley Road, Oakland, NJ.
Phone 201-447-8886
Email info@rtnorthjersey.org
Bergen County's United Way - Bergen County’s United Way operates the statewide NJ 211 system and builds homes that working poor families can afford, and where individuals with special needs can live independently. As an extension of 211, they administer the compassion fund to provide financial assistance for individuals and families in crisis. Located at 6 Forest Ave, Suite 220, Paramus, NJ.
Phone 201-291-4050
Email info@bergenunitedway.org
Legal Resources
General Information National Level
Legal Services Corporation - LSC is the largest national funder of civil legal aid for low-income Americans, ensuring equal access to justice for those who need it most. They are an independent nonprofit organization, providing essential grants to support high-quality civil legal assistance for individuals facing economic hardships.
Phone 202-295-1500
LawHelp - LawHelp provides referrals to nonprofit legal aid organizations in every state and territory, free legal rights resources, court forms and self-advocacy tools. It was created to help people without lawyers understand their rights, make informed decisions and connect to help in your local community.
Fill out legal documents for free
Public Counsel - Public Counsel is a nonprofit public interest law firm and the largest pro-bono legal service dedicated to advancing civil rights and racial and economic justice. Their staff and volunteers seek justice through direct legal services, promote healthy and resilient communities through education and outreach, and support community-led efforts to transform unjust systems through litigation and policy advocacy.
Phone 213-385-2977
USA.Gov Legal Aid - The mission of the USAGov program is to make it easier for people to find and understand the government services and information they need—anytime, anywhere, any way they want. Learn about programs and organizations that give free legal advice and may help you find a free or low-cost attorney.
Phone 1-844-872-4681
Stateside Legal - StatesideLegal assists people with military experience by providing them with information and resources to better understand and protect their rights.
Vet Lex - VetLex is a national, dedicated web-based network of coordinated pro bono service providers to serve the legal needs of veterans. VetLex does not provide legal services; rather, it is an online cooperative system of intake, assessment, and referral envisioned to quickly and effectively connect veterans in need of legal services with those who stand ready to provide them.
Phone 888-838-7727
Email mail@vetsprobono.org
LITC - Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITC) assist low-income individuals who have a tax dispute with the IRS, and provide education and outreach to individuals who speak English as a second language (ESL). As an independent organization within the IRS, LITC protects taxpayers’ rights under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, helps taxpayers resolve problems with the IRS, and recommends changes that will prevent future problems.
Phone 1-877-777-4778
ACLU - The ACLU today is the nation's largest public interest law firm, appearing before the United States Supreme Court more than any other organization except the U.S. Department of Justice. About 100 ACLU staff attorneys collaborate with about 2,000 volunteer attorneys in handling close to 2,000 cases annually. The ACLU is non-profit and non-partisan and they litigate across the nation and all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. We use strategic communications to educate the public about issues.
Phone 212-549-2500
American Friends Service Committee - AFSC works with communities in multiple countries and U.S. cities. Our staff work with people and partners of all faiths and backgrounds to meet urgent community needs, challenge injustice, and build peace. They have been at the forefront of some of the most important social movements in working for justice and peace.
Request a telephone consult 973-643-1924
Detention related calls 973-474-9861
New Jersey Resources
Legal Services in NJ - LSNJ works to ensure full access to essential civil legal aid for economically disadvantaged people who cannot attain a lawyer on their own. The program prioritizes legal representation to help rebuild impoverished, deteriorating communities, and address recurrent problems that could continue to occur in the lives of low-income people.
Information about legal topics
Phone 1-888-576-5529
Volunteer Lawyers for Justice - VLJ works to ensure access to justice for people experiencing poverty. Through access to free legal services, VLJ believes they are providing profound change in people’s lives, including economic stability, mobilizing to address critical legal needs across the state.
Phone 973-645-1955
Pro Bono NJ - Pro Bono NJ is a public service to expand and support pro bono civil legal assistance to disadvantaged New Jersey residents. Their site links volunteers, agencies providing legal assistance, and clients, offering coordination, support, resources, and other assistance.
Phone 1-888-576-5529
Women'sLaw.org - Women’s Law was founded in pursuit of offering internet help to survivors of domestic violence. Their confidential email hotline provides legal information to anyone who reaches out with legal questions regarding topics like domestic or sexual violence.
New Jersey State Bar Association - The NJSBA Military Legal Assistance Program was established to provide free legal help in civil cases to NJ residents who have served overseas since the September 11th terrorist attacks. The program refers members of the military who contact the New Jersey State Bar Association to volunteers qualified to assist them with their specific legal issues.
Phone 888-541-1900
Email mlap@njsba.com
NJ Department of Human Services - The NJDHS is the state’s largest agency, serving about 2.1 million New Jerseyans. Through our eight divisions, we provide numerous programs and services designed to give eligible individuals and families the help they need for economic and health challenges.
Legal representation for children
Know your rights for immigrants
Bergen County Resources
Northeast NJ Legal Services - NNJLS is a non-profit public interest law firm offering free legal help in non-criminal matters to underserved individuals and families experiencing poverty. They work to ensure that clients do not lose housing due to eviction or foreclosure, are not harassed by debt collectors, that they and their families have fair custody arrangements, and that they can receive public benefits and income support to maintain their daily needs.
Phone 973-523-2900
Email NNJLS@lsnj.org
LGBTQ+ Resources
National Resources
The Trevor Project
1-866-488-7386
www.thetrevorproject.org
The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. We provide information & support to LGBTQ+ young people 24/7, all year round.
Services: Crisis services, peer support, advocacy, public education and research.
LGBT National Help Center
888-843-4564
https://lgbthotline.org
The LGBT National Help Center is a non-profit organization that provides peer support, community connections, and resource information through helplines and online chatrooms. Their services focus on sexual orientation and/or gender identity and expression. They are the oldest, most comprehensive national organization of its type in the US, providing critically needed services regardless of age or geographic location.
Services: National hotline, online peer support chat, LGBTQ+ book and media lists, self-harm prevention and self care, help resources, glossary of terms and postcards of support.
The National LGBTQ Task Force
202-393-5177
www.thetaskforce.org
The National LGBTQ Task Force takes action and creates change to achieve freedom, justice, and equity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people. As the progressive voice of the LGBTQ movement and the LGBTQ voice of the progressive movement, the National LGBTQ Task Force organizes people and money in pursuit of liberation for all.
Services: Advocacy for federal legislation and policy formation, creating change conference, resources for secular support, and community empowerment across the nation.
PFLAG
https://pflag.org
PFLAG’s network of over 360 chapters and more than 550,000 members and supporters are helping create an equitable and inclusive world where every LGBTQ+ person is safe, celebrated, empowered, and loved.
Services: Help coming out, community-building for LGBTQ people, crisis hotline resources, information on how to be a better ally, executive order explainers, and advocacy tools.
State Resources
Hudson Pride Center
201-963-4779
https://hudsonpride.org
Hudson Pride Center is the largest LGBTQ+ social services center in New Jersey, and they offer a variety of free services to support, affirm and connect our community to each other and to the services they need. They work to provide a multitude of services, where neither financial status nor native language are a barrier.
Services: Support groups, workshops, health services, virtual training, events and other activities.
HiTOPS
609-453-2555
www.hitops.org
HiTOPS is a non-profit organization that fosters strong and healthy young people of all identities by providing inclusive and youth-informed sex education and LGBTQ+ support for young people throughout New Jersey.
Services: Support groups, drop-in center, clothing and toiletry closet for gender affirmation, online lending library for LGBTQ+ materials, professional training, and resources for parents of LGBTQ+ children.
Garden State Equality
973-509-5428
www.gardenstateequality.org
Garden State Equality is New Jersey’s largest LGBTQI+ advocacy and education organization. They offer resources to help you deal with bullying, to report discrimination, or to learn what programs and supports are available for transgender students.
Services: LGBTQ+ healthcare finder, gender-affirming garments, name change help, and discrimination reports.
Pride Center of NJ
732-846-2232
www.pridecenter.org
The Pride Center of New Jersey provides a safe and welcoming space for all individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ to find support, educational tools, health and education resources, and social opportunities within a community of acceptance.
Services: Social support groups, HIV testing, curated wellness resources, online and in-person events, community partnerships, events and celebrations.
Local Resources
Bergen County LGBTQ+ Alliance
201-375-3549
www.bergencountylgbtq.org
BCLA works to advocate for equality and to connect the Bergen County LGBTQ+ community with the resources it needs. They celebrate community diversity and work to create safe spaces that allow people to be their true selves.
Services: Mental health support, special events, GSA support, virtual meetings, and senior LGBTQ+ services.
Medicare
General Information - Federal Level
Medicare.gov - official US government website for the Medicare program
New Jersey Medicare Resources
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) - The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free help to New Jersey Medicare beneficiaries who have problems with, or questions about their health insurance. SHIP is a statewide program administered by the New Jersey Department of Human Services and funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Administration for Community Living. Also includes information on Medigap plans, Medicare Advantage Plans, Stand-Alone Prescription Plans, and more.
SHIP Information Center: 1-800-792-8820
NJ Save - NJ Save is an online application to help low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities save money on Medicare premiums, prescriptions costs, and other living expenses. Click on the NJ Save image below to access the application. Apply Online.
New Jersey Hospital Care Payment Assistance Program - The New Jersey Hospital Care Payment Assistance Program (Charity Care) is available to patients for inpatient and outpatient services at all acute care hospitals throughout New Jersey. 1-866-588-5696 (Monday through Friday, 9am - 5pm). Charity.Care@doh.nj.gov
Local / Ramsey / Charity Resources
Medicare Rights Center - A national, nonprofit consumer service organization that offers counseling, advocacy, and educational programs to help older adults and people with disabilities understand their Medicare rights and benefits. GET Free MEDICARE HELP. Call the National Helpline 800-333-4114.
Center for Medicare Advocacy - A national, non-profit law organization focused on advancing access to comprehensive Medicare coverage and quality health care for older people and people with disabilities through legal analysis, education, and advocacy.
Patience Advocate Foundation - Provides assistance to patients, including Medicare beneficiaries, with navigating their health insurance, including Medicare eligibility and coverage, and can even help with some out-of-pocket costs.
Patience Assistance Foundations - Charitable patient assistance foundations are independent, nonprofit organizations that provide financial assistance to patients living with life-threatening, chronic, and rare diseases for their out-of-pocket prescription medication costs. PAN Foundation. Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET, at 1-866-316-7263.
Bergen County Medicare Resources
SHIP Medicare Counseling: The Bergen County State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free help to Medicare beneficiaries who have problems with or questions about their health insurance.
SHIP Medicare Counseling Program
Bergen County Division of Senior Services
ADRC One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601
201-336-7413
Help Managing Out-Of-Pocket Prescription Expenses
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.
Medicare Prescription Payment Plan: The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan is a payment option that works with your current drug coverage to help you manage your out-of-pocket costs for drugs covered by your plan by spreading them across the calendar year (January–December).
Medicare drug plan or Medicare health plan with drug coverage (like a Medicare Advantage Plan with drug coverage) can use this payment option. All plans offer this payment option, and participation is voluntary.
If you select this payment option, each month you’ll continue to pay your plan premium (if you have one), and you’ll get a bill from your health or drug plan to pay for your prescription drugs (instead of paying the pharmacy). There’s no cost to participate in the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.
Medicare Part D Extra Help or Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) Program: The Extra Help program helps people with limited income and resources lower or cut Part D costs. Medicare Part D provides drug coverage. The Extra Help program helps with the cost of your prescription drugs, like deductibles and copays. You can apply for Extra Help any time before or after you enroll in Part D.
To apply for LIS, patients can: - Apply for LIS
Call Social Security: (800) 772-1213–TTY: (800) 325-0778
Visit their local Social Security office - Find a local office
Save Money on Prescription Costs with Medicare's Extra Help Program (VIDEO)
Medicare Advantage Versus Medigap Coverage: People with Medicare can get their health coverage through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan. (MA) plan. Learn the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans.
Mental Health
National Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the US. The 988 Lifeline consists of a national network of over 200 local crisis centers, combining local care and resources with national standards and best practices.
Call or text for help 988
Veterans crisis line call 988 then dial 1
SAMHSA National Helpline - The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMHSA envisions that people with, affected by, or at risk for mental health and substance use conditions receive care, achieve well-being, and thrive.
Disaster distress helpline - 1-800-985-5990
Call for help 1-800-662-4357
Email questions SAMHSAInfo@samhsa.hhs.gov
Mental Health America - Mental Health America is the nation’s leading national nonprofit dedicated to the promotion of mental health, well-being, and prevention. Mental Health America provides support through community education, screening, research, advocacy and public policy.
Phone 800-969-6642
The JED Foundation - The Jed Foundation is a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults. JED empowers teens and young adults by building resiliency and life skills, promoting social connectedness, and encouraging help-seeking and help-giving behaviors through our nationally recognized programs, digital channels, and partnerships, as well as through the media.
How to get help and therapy info
Mental health training and education
Phone 212-647-7544
Crisis Text Line - Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7, text-based mental health support and crisis intervention by empowering a community of trained volunteers to support people in their moments of need. We are a nonjudgmental organization that champions mental well-being and aims to support people of every race, ethnicity, political affiliation, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, socioeconomic status, and other backgrounds.
Text the crisis line 741741
National Institute of Mental Health - NIMH is the lead federal agency for research on mental conditions. NIMH is one of the 27 Institutes and Centers that make up the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the largest biomedical research agency in the world. They support and conduct research on mental illness, support training of scientists involved in clinical mental health research, and communicate with patients, providers and the public about research advances.
Phone 1-866-615-6464
Email nimhinfo@nih.gov
National Alliance on Mental Illness - NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness. They are an alliance of more than 600 local Affiliates and 49 State Organizations who work to raise awareness and provide support and education that was not previously available to those in need.
Support for frontline professionals
Call for help 1-800-950-6264
Text NAMI to 62640 for help
Email helpline@nami.org
The Trevor Project - The Trevor Project is the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. We provide information & support to LGBTQ+ young people 24/7, all year round.
Call for help 1-866-488-7386
Text START to 678-678 for help
New Jersey Resources
Mental Health Association in NJ - The Mental Health Association (MHANJ) in New Jersey is a statewide non-profit organization that strives for people to achieve victory over mental illness and substance use disorders through advocacy, education, training and services.
Call for help 866-202-4357
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance - The mission of DBSA New Jersey is to promote, and provide support and resources for, affiliated local chapters in New Jersey to help them improve the lives of people living with mood disorders. They assist in starting up new chapters and meetings, and provide training for individuals to facilitate support group meetings.
What you can do to help someone
For suicide crisis 855-654-6735
For questions call 888-829-2483
Email info@dbsanewjersey.org
Collaborative Support Programs of NJ - CSPNJ is a peer-led not-for-profit organization, providing flexible, community-based services that promote recovery and wellness through the provision of community wellness centers, supportive and respite housing, human rights advocacy, and educational programs for people experiencing behavioral health conditions.
Phone 732-780-1175
2NDFLOOR - 2NDFLOOR is a confidential and anonymous support network for New Jersey’s youth, available 24/7 365 days a year. They are a unique resource for youth and young adults in NJ ages 10-24. They offer educational posters, folders and brochures and distribute materials to schools, agencies and other mental health programs.
Text or call 888-222-2228
Email questions to patriciab@180nj.org
NJ Cop2Cop - Cop2Cop is a 24/7 confidential peer support for NJ law enforcement officers and their families. Their counselors are retired officers and licensed clinicians that serve several different law enforcement agencies including, county, municipal, corrections, large and small agencies. They provide peer counseling, assessments,specialty Cop2Cop network referrals, and Critical Incident Stress Management services. Peer Prevention services are also available for suicide prevention and resilience training.
Need to talk? Call 1-866-267-2267
NJ Vet2Vet - Vet2Vet provides 24/7 support to New Jersey National Guard members, active military personnel, veterans, their families, and caregivers statewide. They offer peer support, case management services, access to resources, clinical providers in the event of crisis, and training facilitated by Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care.
Call their helpline 1-866-838-7654
Bergen County Resources
CarePlus NJ - CarePlus NJ is a non-profit organization and proudly stands as a local Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC). We are dedicated to delivering comprehensive, recovery-focused integrated primary care, mental health care, and substance abuse rehabilitation services.
For 21 and under crisis, call 877-652-7634
For psychiatric emergency, call 201-262-4357
Vantage Health System - Vantage Health System is a private not-for-profit charitable organization, a system of community based facilities and programs located in Bergen County NJ. We provide services to children, adolescents, adults and elders with mental health, addiction, developmental and eldercare challenges.
Addiction and outpatient services
Senior services and support groups
Phone 201-567-0059
Email info@vantagenj.org
Bergen's Promise - Bergen’s Promise is accredited through the Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). Bergen’s Promise delivers care management services to keep youth and families physically and emotionally safe. Providing “wraparound care”, they create an individualized planning process for care that leverages the Child and Family Team and builds on a family's and community's unique strengths.
Phone 201-712-1170
Email communityresources@bergenspromise.org
Local / Ramsey / Charity Resources
Ramsey Alliance - The Ramsey Municipal Alliance is a not for profit organization through the Borough of Ramsey staffed by volunteers and community leaders. RMA is funded by the Governor’s Council on Substance Use Disorder (GCSUD) grant, the borough, and donations from individuals and local businesses. The primary goal of the RMA is to bring our community together to raise healthy children and support our adult population in making smarter choices to reduce substance misuse in Ramsey. Located at 33 N Central Ave, Ramsey, NJ 07446.
Senior Services
Federal Resources
Administration on Community Living - The Administration on Aging (ACL) promotes the well-being of older individuals by providing services and programs designed to help them live independently in their homes and communities.
Eldercare Locator (ACL) - A public service connecting you to services for older adults and their families.
Health Information for Older Adults (National Institute on Aging) - Health and wellness information for older adults from the National Institutes of Health.
LongTermCare.gov - At some point in our lives, about 60 percent of us will need assistance with things like getting dressed, driving to appointments, or making meals. Many people are not sure what is covered by insurance, and people are often misinformed about what is covered by Medicare. Long-Term Care.gov can help people learn how to plan.
National Institute on Aging - Includes a directory of resources and information on a variety of topics, including Alzheimer’s, caregiving, brain health, clinical trials, exercise and physical health, home health services, an eldercare locator tool, money management and more.
Local / Ramsey / Charity Resources
Ramsey Senior Services and Senior Shuttle - Ramsey Senior Center. / 75 E. Oak Street, Ramsey, NJ 07446. Phone: 201-825-1975 option #1
Charity Groups and Other Organizations
Meals on Wheels of North Jersey 201-358-0050 / info@mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org
Apply for Meal Delivery - https://mealsonwheelsnorthjersey.org/meals/
VITA - The IRS's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals. Find a VITA site near you.
AARP Tax-Aide Location - AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides tax assistance to anyone, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. You don't need to be an AARP member to use the service.
New Jersey Resources
NJ Division of Aging - Among other things, includes information on pharmaceutical and hearing aid assistance for low income seniors.
County Offices of Aging - An Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is designated in each of New Jersey's 21 counties to serve as the primary entity responsible for developing comprehensive, coordinated systems of community-based services for older adults. AAAs also serve as Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) lead agencies in their county, ensuring seniors, adults with disabilities and their caregivers have easy access to information and long term services and supports.
Phone: 201-336-7400
Bergen County Division of Senior Services
One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601-7076
Bergen County Resources
Bergen County Division of Senior Services
Resource for all County senior service programs, helpful information and guidance for federal/state programs, outreach, senior activity seniors, and many more resources.
Other Bergen County Resources and Programs
Care Management, Aging and Disability Resources, Information and Assistance - the County’s central source of information and services for older adults, caregivers, and those over the age of 18 with a disability.
Ride Connect Program - Seniors can request transportation through this county program.
Nutrition - Meals on Wheels, Senior Lunch, Farmers Market Nutrition Program
NJ Ombudsman for the Institutionalized Elderly - Advocacy program focused on protecting the health, safety and welfare of older individuals in institutions.
Pension Rights Center - Organization dedicated to helping retired persons with their pensions.
Senior Activity Centers - Bergen County, Division of Senior Services administers 10 senior centers throughout Bergen County with a nutritional component at each center.
Seniors Helping Seniors - Provides community and support to seniors by other seniors.
SHIP Medicare Counseling - The Bergen County State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free help to Medicare beneficiaries who have problems with, or questions about their health insurance.
More Resources Coming Soon…