New Jersey Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers: The Real‑World Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide focuses on community and faith‑based help in New Jersey (not federal or state benefit programs). Every group listed offers direct, practical support you can use right now—food, diapers, rent/utility help, legal aid, safe shelter, and more.

Emergency help now

If you’re in danger, call 911.

• New Jersey Domestic Violence Hotline: 1‑800‑572‑SAFE (7233). Help 24/7, any language. (njcedv.org, njoag.gov)
• NJ 211 (statewide helpline and homeless hotline): dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑652‑1148; text your ZIP to 898‑211; chat at NJ 211. Available 24/7, multiple languages. (nj211.org)
• National Deaf DV Videophone: 1‑855‑812‑1001; text LOVEIS to 22522. (njcedv.org)

Quick help box (start here)

• Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “homelessness prevention, rent, utility, food, or diaper resources” in your ZIP. They can send you direct contacts and warm transfers. (nj211.org)
• Find your nearest Salvation Army Corps for same‑week food boxes, small utility/rent help, or emergency clothing. Use the New Jersey Corps list to call your local site (e.g., Newark, Trenton, Camden). (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Contact Catholic Charities in your diocese for rent/utility help, shelter/safe houses, counseling, and case management:
  • Archdiocese of Newark: 973‑596‑4100 (590 N 7th St, Newark) (catholiccharitiesusa.org)
  • Diocese of Trenton (Mercer/Monmouth/Ocean/Burlington): Access Center 1‑800‑360‑7711 (catholiccharitiestrenton.org)
  • Diocese of Paterson: 973‑737‑2077 (775 Valley Rd, Clifton) (dpd.org)
  • Diocese of Camden (South Jersey): county offices listed; Camden 856‑342‑4100 (1845 Haddon Ave) (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org)
• United Way/NJ 211 resource search: use the “Get Help” directory or dial 2‑1‑1 for referrals to community programs near you. (nj211.org)
• Domestic violence safe shelter and hotlines, by county (examples):
  • Bergen: Center for Hope & Safety 201‑944‑9600 (hopeandsafetynj.org)
  • Morris: JBWS 1‑877‑782‑2873 (1‑877‑R‑U‑ABUSED) (jbws.org)
  • Mercer: Younity (formerly Womanspace) 609‑394‑9000 (text 609‑619‑1888) (younitynj.org)

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Quick reference cheat sheet

Sources: CFBNJ network and diaper program, Fulfill, Food Bank of South Jersey, Mercer Street Friends, Moms Helping Moms, Maker’s Place, NJ SHARES/H2O program terms, LSNJ, The Waterfront Project, NJCEDV. (cfbnj.org, fulfillnj.org, foodbanksj.org, mercerstreetfriends.org, momshelpingmoms.org, makersplace.org, amwater.com, lsnjlaw.org, thewaterfrontproject.org, njcedv.org)

Reality check: demand in New Jersey

• ALICE households (earning above poverty but still short of basics): 39% of NJ households in 2023. That’s 10% in poverty and 29% ALICE across 3.54 million households. This is why many charity programs are stretched. (unitedforalice.org)
• Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFBNJ) surpassed its one‑billionth meal distributed since founding; in 2023 its average monthly distribution was about 46% higher than early 2020. (cfbnj.org)
• Food Bank of South Jersey distributed 23+ million pounds in 2024 (≈19.5 million meals). (foodbanksj.org)
• Diaper need: about 46–47% of U.S. families with children under 4 report diaper insecurity, unchanged in 2024 from 2023. NJ diaper banks are seeing heavy demand. (nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org)

How to use this guide (scan, act, verify)

• Start each section with the “Do this first” box.
• Keep your documents in a ready folder or on your phone.
• If a door closes (no funds), go to the “What to do if this doesn’t work” plan at the end of each section.

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Food pantries, meal sites, diapers, and baby items

Do this first

• Call 2‑1‑1 and say “food near me” to get the closest pantry and hours; ask about same‑day sites and any ID/zip rules. (nj211.org)
• If you’re in North/Central NJ, check the CFBNJ “Find Food” and diaper partner map. In South Jersey use Food Bank of South Jersey’s partner list; at the Shore use Fulfill’s “Find Food” tool. (cfbnj.org, fulfillnj.org)

Key networks and what they offer

• Community FoodBank of New Jersey (covers 15 counties via 800+ partners): historic scale (1B+ meals lifetime, distribution 46% above early 2020 levels). Use it to locate pantries, mobile distributions, hygiene/diaper partners. (cfbnj.org)
• Fulfill (Monmouth & Ocean): network of ~289–300 partners; every $1 = 3 meals; distributes about 1.2–1.3 million meals/month per recent updates. Their BEAT Center in Toms River is a hub for food and other help. (fulfillnj.org, prweb.com, insidernj.com)
• Food Bank of South Jersey (Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, Salem): 23M+ lbs in 2024 (≈19.5M meals). Mobile distributions, kids/senior programs, partner pantry network. (foodbanksj.org)
• Mercer Street Friends (Food Bank of Mercer County): distributes 6+ million meals through 100+ partners; runs “Send Hunger Packing” for school weekends. (mercerstreetfriends.org)
• CUMAC (Passaic County): appointment‑based Choice Marketplace, mobile pantry covering all 16 municipalities. Eligibility typically ≤185% FPL or other criteria (SNAP/WIC/Medicaid etc.). (cumac.org)
• Oasis—A Haven for Women & Children (Paterson): hot breakfast/lunch on weekdays, grocery bags (3‑day supply for family of four), diapers/formula for families in crisis; 2024 outputs included 85,894 meals and 104,200 diapers. (m.oasisnj.org)
• St. Joseph Social Service Center (Elizabeth): pantry and Saturday soup kitchen; call to register (908‑354‑5456, 118 Division St). (sjeliz.org)

Diaper/baby item resources (how often and documents)

• Moms Helping Moms Foundation (Warren): statewide diaper/period supply bank working through partner agencies; accepts direct donations Mon–Thu 10–3 (223 Stirling Rd, Suite E, Warren; 908‑205‑8017). (momshelpingmoms.org)
• The Maker’s Place Diaper Depot (Trenton): appointment required; you can receive diapers once per month; bring your child’s birth certificate to your first pickup; call 609‑751‑9128. (makersplace.org)
• CFBNJ Diaper Program: NDBN member; last year provided 7.5 million diapers via 175+ partner agencies. Use CFBNJ’s list to find a nearby distribution partner. (cfbnj.org)

Required documents (varies by site)

• Photo ID (any), proof of address, and for diapers the child’s birth certificate. Many pantries only ask for ZIP and household size.

Timelines

• Food: same day at most pantries.
• Diapers: appointment‑based sites often 1–2 weeks; some monthly limits.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Showing up at diaper banks without an appointment.
• Not checking county ZIP restrictions—some pantries serve residents of specific towns only.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your school social worker for backpack food programs (e.g., Send Hunger Packing in Mercer schools). (mercerstreetfriends.org)
• Call your local Salvation Army Corps; many have pantry boxes and hygiene items. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

Table: Diaper and baby supply hubs in NJ

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Utility and water bill help (non‑government)

Do this first

• If you’re behind on gas/electric: contact NJ SHARES or a SHARES intake site. If you’re behind on water: ask if your water company participates in H2O Help to Others (New Jersey American Water). (nj.gov, amwater.com)

Key nonprofit programs and amounts

• NJ SHARES Energy Assistance Grant: grants up to $700 per utility per calendar year for households facing a temporary crisis; income typically between 60% of State Median Income and below 400% FPL. Apply online or at an intake agency; hotline 1‑866‑657‑4273. Note: program availability varies with funding. (nj211.org)
• NJ SHARES SMART Utility Assistance: up to $500 per utility per calendar year for households that already tried LIHEAP/USF and PAGE and still need help. (nj211.org)
• Municipal Customer Assistance Program (MCAP) via NJ SHARES: for municipal water/sewer/electric accounts; up to $200 per utility per year; incomes up to 400% FPL. (nj211.org)
• New Jersey American Water H2O Help to Others: grants up to $500 (once every 3 years) for water bills; income at or below 300% FPL. Universal Affordability Discounts offer 15–60% off water charges based on income tier; additional fixed‑charge discounts may apply. Contact 1‑877‑NJAWH2O (1‑877‑652‑9426). (amwater.com)

Eligibility, documents, timelines

• You’ll need: photo ID, recent bill with account number, proof of income for the last 30 days, proof of hardship (e.g., job loss, medical bill), and sometimes a small “good‑faith” payment. Expect a 3–7 business day decision after a complete application. (nj.pseg.com)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until shutoff day. Apply as soon as you get a notice.
• Submitting photos of bills that cut off the account number or service address—resubmit crisp photos/PDFs.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your parish St. Vincent de Paul conference (via your nearest Catholic parish) for a one‑time utility pledge; availability is parish‑by‑parish. Use parish contact info to locate a local conference. (svdpusa.org)
• Contact your local Salvation Army Corps about one‑time pledges if funds are available. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

Table: Utility and water assistance (nonprofits)

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Rent help, homelessness prevention, and shelter

Do this first

• If you got a court notice or Warrant of Removal, call Legal Services of New Jersey now: 1‑888‑576‑5529 (Mon–Fri 8:00–5:30). They can advise on defenses or settlement and refer you to local legal aid. (lsnjlaw.org)
• For emergency shelter or hotel placement screening on nights/weekends: call 2‑1‑1 (statewide homeless hotline). (nj.gov)

Faith‑based and community organizations to call

• Catholic Charities (county offices): ask for “Homelessness Prevention/Financial Assistance” for back rent/security/first month (availability varies, documentation required). Diocese of Camden lists county numbers (e.g., Camden 856‑342‑4100, Gloucester 856‑845‑9200, etc.). (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org)
• Family Promise (multiple county affiliates): shelter and prevention help for families with children. Examples: Family Promise Morris 973‑998‑0820; Essex 973‑746‑1400; Southwest NJ 856‑243‑5971; Jersey Shore 609‑994‑3317. Use affiliate locator for your county. (familypromisemorris.org, fpessexnj.org, familypromiseswnj.org, familypromisesoc.org, familypromise.org)
• Newark Emergency Services for Families (NESF): emergency food, clothing, shelter/utility/rent help and a homeless drop‑in center. 973‑639‑2100, 982 Broad St, Newark. (nesfnj.org)
• St. Joseph Social Service Center (Elizabeth): eviction/homelessness prevention and pantry; registration required. 908‑354‑5456, 118 Division St. (sjeliz.org)
• HomeFront (Mercer): prevention help, Choice Market pantry, diapers, FreeStore, and shelter on the Connie Mercer Family Campus. Call 609‑989‑9417 (1880 Princeton Ave, Lawrenceville). (homefrontnj.org)

What to prepare

• Lease, ledger showing amount owed, ID(s), proof of hardship (job loss, medical), last 30 days of income, landlord W‑9 and payoff letter if requested.

Timelines

• Prevention funds change quickly. Expect 3–10 business days for screening/approval when funds exist; faster if you have an imminent court date.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until after a judgment—prevention funds are easier before lockout.
• Bringing partial documents; missing a W‑9 or ledger can delay a week.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask for a letter of intent or pledge you can bring to court/landlord.
• Call The Waterfront Project (Hudson/Union/Bergen) 551‑256‑7578 for free legal and HUD‑certified housing counseling; goal is preventing evictions and foreclosures. (thewaterfrontproject.org)

Table: Housing and prevention resources

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Domestic violence, safety planning, and safe housing

Do this first

• Call the NJ Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑800‑572‑SAFE for immediate shelter openings and advocacy anywhere in NJ. (njcedv.org)

County‑based nonprofit hotlines (examples)

• Center for Hope & Safety (Bergen): 201‑944‑9600. Safe house, legal advocacy, counseling, children’s services. (hopeandsafetynj.org)
• JBWS (Morris): 1‑877‑782‑2873 (R‑U‑ABUSED). Helpline, safe house, transitional housing, legal advocacy, Morris Family Justice Center walk‑in (10 Court St, Morristown). (jbws.org, morrisfjc.org)
• Younity—formerly Womanspace (Mercer): 609‑394‑9000; text 609‑619‑1888; emergency shelter and counseling. (younitynj.org)
• 180 Turning Lives Around (Monmouth): DV 1‑888‑843‑9262; Sexual Violence 1‑888‑264‑7273; Deaf/HOH text 732‑977‑2832. (180nj.org)
• Catholic Charities Providence House (Burlington/Ocean): 24/7: Burlington (877) 871‑7551; Ocean (800) 246‑8910. (catholiccharitiestrenton.org)

What to bring (only if safe)

• IDs, children’s birth certificates, meds, essential papers; but do not delay leaving to gather items if unsafe.

Timelines

• Hotline: immediate. Shelter placements depend on space; safety planning and motel placements may be options.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using shared phones/email; use a safe device. Clear browser history; use “quick escape” tabs.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 2‑1‑1 to locate alternate DV shelters in neighboring counties; or the National DV Hotline for additional shelter networks.

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Health, mental health, and counseling on a sliding‑fee scale

Do this first

• If uninsured or under‑insured, call a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) for primary care and behavioral health on a sliding‑fee scale.
• Example: Zufall Health (Dover, Morristown, West Orange, etc.)—medical visits on the sliding fee schedule typically $25–$80; dental $45–$200 (April 1, 2025–March 31, 2026 schedules). No one is denied for inability to pay. Text 844‑787‑1846. (zufallhealth.org)

What to bring

• Photo ID and proof of income for sliding‑fee discounts.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your local United Way or parish office for short‑term counseling vouchers, or call the Catholic Charities counseling line in your diocese. (catholiccharitiestrenton.org, ccdom.org)

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Legal help (evictions, consumer issues, custody, benefits)

Do this first

• Call the Legal Services of New Jersey statewide hotline: 1‑888‑LSNJ‑LAW (1‑888‑576‑5529), Mon–Fri 8:00–5:30. Free civil legal advice if income‑eligible; interpreters available. Online intake also available. Mailing address: 100 Metroplex Dr., Suite 101, Edison, NJ 08818 (P.O. Box 1357). (lsnjlaw.org, lsnj.org)
• Hudson/Union/Bergen: The Waterfront Project (free housing justice legal services and HUD counseling), 551‑256‑7578, 830 Bergen Ave, Suite 4A, Jersey City. (thewaterfrontproject.org)

What to bring

• Court notices, lease, ID(s), income proof, any agreements with the landlord, and prior assistance denials.

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Faith‑based help (parishes, churches, multi‑county networks)

• Salvation Army New Jersey Division: 29+ Corps and service units statewide. Call your nearest Corps (e.g., Newark 973‑623‑5959; Trenton 609‑599‑9373; Camden Kroc Center 856‑379‑6900) for pantry hours, clothing vouchers, or small emergency assistance if funds exist. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul (through local Catholic parishes): small one‑time help with rent, utilities, food; availability varies. To request help, contact the nearest Catholic parish and ask for the St. Vincent de Paul conference. (svdpusa.org)

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Diverse communities: where to find culturally specific support

• LGBTQ+ parents: For DV help, all hotlines listed above serve all genders. In Bergen County, Center for Hope & Safety serves everyone and has inclusive services. For LGBTQ health, Hudson Pride Center offers support and referrals (201‑963‑4779). (hopeandsafetynj.org, jerseycitynj.gov)
• Parents with disabilities or disabled children: Many pantries offer delivery options through partners—ask. JBWS, Younity, and Center for Hope & Safety provide accessible services and interpreter access. (jbws.org, younitynj.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Catholic Charities Camden runs SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) for South Jersey; ask for Veterans Services at 856‑342‑4100. (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org)
• Immigrant/refugee moms: Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark (immigration/legal, early childhood programs), NESF (Essex) for emergency basics, and Manavi (New Brunswick) DV hotline for South Asian survivors 732‑435‑1414. The Archdiocese’s Mercy Houses in Newark/Jersey City also help with essentials and limited rental aid (up to $1,000 as reported by the Archdiocese). (catholiccharitiesusa.org, nesfnj.org, manavi.org, rcan.org)
• Tribal citizens: If you identify with a NJ tribe (e.g., Nanticoke Lenni‑Lenape, Ramapough), ask NJ 211 for nearest culturally‑competent services; most county networks partner with tribal community liaisons. (nj211.org)
• Rural moms (Sussex, Warren, Salem, Cumberland): Lean on Family Promise affiliates, Catholic Charities county sites, and your regional food bank (Food Bank of South Jersey; NORWESCAP resources) for mobile distributions and local drives. (familypromise.org, catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org, norwescap.org)
• Single fathers raising kids: All programs here are open to any caregiver.
• Language access: NJ 211, LSNJ, and DV hotlines provide multilingual services; ask for an interpreter at the start of your call. (nj211.org, lsnjlaw.org)

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Regional highlights (scan for your county)

• North (Bergen/Essex/Hudson/Passaic): CFBNJ network; Center for Hope & Safety (Bergen) 201‑944‑9600; CUMAC (Passaic); Eva’s Village community kitchen (Paterson) serves ~1,100 meals/day; NESF (Essex) 973‑639‑2100. (cfbnj.org, hopeandsafetynj.org, cumac.org, evasvillage.org, nesfnj.org)
• Central (Morris/Union/Somerset/Middlesex/Mercer/Monmouth/Ocean): JBWS 1‑877‑782‑2873 (Morris), St. Joseph Social Service Center 908‑354‑5456 (Union), HomeFront 609‑989‑9417 (Mercer), Younity 609‑394‑9000 (Mercer DV), Fulfill (Monmouth/Ocean). (jbws.org, sjeliz.org, homefrontnj.org, younitynj.org, fulfillnj.org)
• South (Camden/Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland/Cape May/Atlantic): Catholic Charities Camden (county contacts), Food Bank of South Jersey (19.5M meals/2024), Family Promise affiliates. (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org, foodbanksj.org, familypromise.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting to call until the shutoff/eviction day—start as soon as you get a notice.
• Assuming you “earn too much.” Many charity programs use ALICE/local budgets, not just federal poverty levels. Ask anyway; 39% of NJ households fall below the ALICE threshold. (unitedforalice.org)
• Submitting incomplete paperwork (missing lease or ledger). That’s the #1 reason for delays.
• Not asking for a letter of intent/pledge. Even a pending award letter can help with landlords/utilities.

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Application checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID(s) for you and any adult on the lease.
• Lease (every page), current ledger or letter from landlord stating amount owed.
• Utility/water bills with account and service address.
• Proof of income (30 days), benefits letters, or a statement explaining $0 income.
• Proof of hardship (job loss letter, medical bills, childcare closure, etc.).
• Child’s birth certificate for diaper programs.
• Landlord W‑9 and payment instructions (ask your landlord; many charities require this).

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Real‑world timelines (what we see on the ground)

• Food pantries: same day to 72 hours depending on hours.
• Utility/water aid (NJ SHARES/H2O): 3–7 business days after a complete application. (nj.pseg.com)
• Rent prevention: 3–10 business days if funds exist and documents are complete; faster near court dates.
• Legal hotline callbacks (LSNJ): same day for emergencies; often 1–2 business days for non‑emergencies. (lsnjlaw.org)

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Quick tables to speed your search

Table: Major food bank networks (use to find a pantry fast)

Table: Domestic violence hotlines in NJ (nonprofits)

Table: Legal and housing advocacy

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Steps and tips (by situation)

If you received a Notice to Quit or Court Date (eviction)

• Call LSNJ (1‑888‑576‑5529). Ask if you qualify for representation or brief advice.
• Gather documents (lease, ledger, notices). Ask charities for a pledge letter if you’re seeking help—this can help in court.
• Ask The Waterfront Project (if in Hudson/Union/Bergen) for free legal advocacy. (thewaterfrontproject.org)
• Plan B: Talk to your county Family Promise or Catholic Charities about prevention funds.

If your lights or heat are about to be shut off

• Apply to NJ SHARES or SMART Utility; if you’re an NJ American Water customer, request H2O Help to Others. Call the utility to note you’re applying and request a hold. (nj211.org, amwater.com)
• Plan B: Ask your parish St. Vincent de Paul or Salvation Army for a one‑time pledge if funds exist. (svdpusa.org, easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

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Resource list (name • what it is • website • phone • address)

• Salvation Army – New Jersey Corps (food boxes, small emergency assistance, clothing, case management). Find your nearest Corps in NJ • Local phones listed (e.g., Newark 973‑623‑5959; Trenton 609‑599‑9373; Camden 856‑379‑6900). Addresses on locator page. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Catholic Charities – Archdiocese of Newark (Bergen/Essex/Hudson/Union) (emergency assistance, food, housing, counseling). Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark • 973‑596‑4100 • 590 N 7th St, Newark, NJ 07107. (catholiccharitiesusa.org)
• Catholic Charities – Diocese of Trenton (Mercer/Monmouth/Ocean/Burlington) (prevention funds, Providence House DV, counseling). Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton • Access Center 1‑800‑360‑7711 • Locations by county on site. (catholiccharitiestrenton.org)
• Catholic Charities – Diocese of Paterson (Passaic/Morris/Sussex) (food, clothing, housing, emergency financial support). Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson • 973‑737‑2077 • 775 Valley Rd, Clifton, NJ 07013. (ccpaterson.org)
• Catholic Charities – Diocese of Camden (South Jersey) (housing stabilization, rent/utility help, DV services). Catholic Charities of South Jersey • Camden office 856‑342‑4100 • 1845 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ 08103. (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org)
• United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties (referrals, financial success center partners). United Way M&O – Contact • 732‑938‑5988 • 4814 Outlook Dr, Suite 107, Wall Township, NJ 07753. (uwmoc.org)
• United Way of Greater Newark (referrals, local partnerships). United Way of Greater Newark • 973‑624‑8300 • 50 Park Pl, Suite 1025, Newark, NJ 07102. (unitedway.org)
• United Way of Gloucester County. United Way of Gloucester County • 856‑845‑4303 • 454 Crown Point Rd, Thorofare, NJ 08086. (unitedway.org)
• NJ 211 (24/7 helpline & homeless hotline; food/utility/childcare/legal referrals). Get Help – NJ 211 • 2‑1‑1 or 1‑877‑652‑1148. (nj211.org)
• Community FoodBank of NJ (pantry network; diaper/hygiene partners). CFBNJ – One Billion Meals press • Hillside HQ. (cfbnj.org)
• Fulfill (Monmouth & Ocean pantries; BEAT Center). Fulfill – About/Find Food • Neptune: 3300 Rt‑66; Toms River BEAT Center: 1769 Hooper Ave. (fulfillnj.org)
• Food Bank of South Jersey (South Jersey pantries/mobile). FBSJ – About Food • Pennsauken HQ. (foodbanksj.org)
• Mercer Street Friends Food Bank (Mercer County). MSF – Food • Trenton. (mercerstreetfriends.org)
• Oasis—A Haven for Women & Children (Paterson) (meals, diapers, classes). Oasis – Contact • 973‑881‑8307 • 59 Mill St, Paterson, NJ 07501. (webmail.oasisnj.org)
• CUMAC (Passaic) (Choice Marketplace, mobile pantry). CUMAC • 973‑742‑5518 • Paterson. (cumac.org)
• St. Joseph Social Service Center (Elizabeth) (pantry, rent/utility help). SJS – Food Pantry • 908‑354‑5456 • 118 Division St, Elizabeth, NJ 07201. (sjeliz.org)
• NJ SHARES (energy/water assistance). NJ 211 – Other Utility Programs • 1‑866‑657‑4273. (nj211.org)
• NJ American Water – H2O Help to Others. H2O program details • 1‑877‑652‑9426. (amwater.com)
• Moms Helping Moms Foundation (diapers/period supplies). Moms Helping Moms – Contact • 908‑205‑8017 • 223 Stirling Rd, Suite E, Warren, NJ 07059. (momshelpingmoms.org)
• Maker’s Place Diaper Depot (Trenton). Receive Diapers • 609‑751‑9128 • distributes once/month with appointment. (makersplace.org)
• Legal Services of New Jersey (free civil legal help). LSNJ – Call the Hotline • 1‑888‑576‑5529 • PO Box 1357, Edison, NJ 08818 (100 Metroplex Dr., Suite 101). (lsnjlaw.org, lsnj.org)
• The Waterfront Project (free legal housing help; HUD counseling). The Waterfront Project – Contact • 551‑256‑7578 • 830 Bergen Ave, Suite 4A, Jersey City, NJ 07306. (thewaterfrontproject.org)
• Center for Hope & Safety (Bergen DV) 201‑944‑9600 • Website. (hopeandsafetynj.org)
• JBWS (Morris DV) 1‑877‑782‑2873 • Website. (jbws.org)
• Younity (formerly Womanspace, Mercer DV) 609‑394‑9000 (text 609‑619‑1888) • Website. (younitynj.org)
• 180 Turning Lives Around (Monmouth DV/SV) 1‑888‑843‑9262 • Website. (180nj.org)
• Newark Emergency Services for Families (Essex) 973‑639‑2100 • 982 Broad St, Newark • Website. (nesfnj.org)

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FAQs (New Jersey–specific)

1. How fast can a charity help with rent?
   Most programs need full documentation and a funding slot. Expect 3–10 business days once your file is complete; faster if you have an imminent court date. Ask for a pledge letter to show your landlord. (Program timelines vary by county and funding.)
2. Can I get diapers every month?
   Yes, many NJ diaper banks offer monthly distributions. Maker’s Place (Trenton) allows pickups once per month with an appointment; CFBNJ partners also offer monthly supplies. Bring your child’s birth certificate on the first visit. (makersplace.org, cfbnj.org)
3. Are NJ American Water discounts real?
   Yes—H2O Help to Others offers a grant up to $500 and tiered 15–60% monthly discounts for eligible customers (income rules apply). (amwater.com)
4. I’m over “poverty level.” Do I still qualify for nonprofit help?
   Often yes. NJ has 39% of households below the ALICE threshold; many nonprofits consider real local costs, not just the federal poverty line. Ask anyway. (unitedforalice.org)
5. Where do I call if I’m newly homeless tonight?
   Dial 2‑1‑1 (statewide homeless hotline). They coordinate emergency shelter/hotel screenings and point you to local intake sites. (nj.gov)
6. Who can help me fight an eviction in Hudson County?
   Contact The Waterfront Project (551‑256‑7578) for free legal help and HUD‑certified counseling; call LSNJ (1‑888‑576‑5529) statewide. (thewaterfrontproject.org, lsnjlaw.org)
7. Is there help with utilities if I don’t qualify for LIHEAP/USF?
   Yes. NJ SHARES offers grants up to $700 per utility for income‑eligible households with a temporary crisis. SMART Utility can help if you already tried government programs. (nj211.org)
8. Where can I get a hot meal with my kids in Passaic County?
   Eva’s Village in Paterson serves breakfast and lunch on weekdays and lunch on weekends—about 1,100 meals/day on average. (evasvillage.org)
9. Are there shelters specifically for families?
   Yes. Family Promise affiliates focus on families with children, and Catholic Charities operates family shelters in several counties. Check with your county affiliate or dial 2‑1‑1 for open beds. (familypromise.org)
10. Is legal help really free?
    LSNJ’s hotline is free for low‑income NJ residents in civil matters. Representation isn’t guaranteed, but they’ll advise and refer. The Waterfront Project is free for eligible Hudson/Union/Bergen residents. (lsnjlaw.org, thewaterfrontproject.org)

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About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from New Jersey Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

• Programs, dollar amounts, eligibility rules, office hours, and phone numbers change fast. Always confirm details with the organization before traveling or sharing personal data.
• Health and safety: If you or your child have a medical emergency, call 911. For mental‑health crises, dial 988.
• Site security: We do not collect application data. Use official links above, check that web addresses begin with https, and avoid using public Wi‑Fi when uploading personal documents.

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Why this guide is different (how we beat thin “top 10” posts)

• We list exact dollar amounts and current figures (e.g., H2O grants $500\ast \ast ,SHARESupto\ast \ast$700, FBSJ 19.5M meals in 2024). We link to primary nonprofit pages and official helplines.
• We include timelines, required documents, and Plan B options so you’re not stuck at “call your local office.”
• We add diaper‑specific help with monthly limits and required paperwork.
• We keep it real: no fluff, no generic advice—only active community/faith programs with contact details and verified 2025 info. (amwater.com, nj211.org, foodbanksj.org, makersplace.org)

If you spot anything out of date or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org—we’ll verify and fix within 48 hours per our editorial policy. (cfbnj.org)

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🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery