Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in New Jersey

Last updated: September 2025

This hub gives you direct ways to get free or nearly free furniture, baby gear, and household basics in New Jersey. You’ll also see who pays for delivery, how to qualify fast, and what to do if a program says no. Use the links as you read to jump straight to applications and hotlines from sources like NJ Department of Human Services, NJ Department of Community Affairs, NJ Board of Public Utilities, and NJ 211. According to the state’s own pages, Emergency Assistance can cover “household furnishings” when you’re homeless or had a disaster, and utility help can prevent shutoffs while you’re setting up a safe home for your kids. (nj.gov)

Reality Check: Furniture banks and voucher programs in New Jersey often require an agency referral, and many have limited delivery slots. Always ask your caseworker to place the referral and request delivery in the same call. Use NJ 211 for backup referrals and the DCAid portal to check state help you might qualify for in 2–3 minutes. (nj211.org)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call the statewide social services line and ask for WorkFirst New Jersey Emergency Assistance for “household furnishings,” then request “immediate need” screening

  Use your County Board of Social Services directory and say you need Emergency Assistance for household furnishings and moving help; state rules list “household furnishings” and moving costs as covered in some crises. If you’re fleeing domestic violence, ask if a waiver and referral to a partner shelter can fast‑track furniture. (nj.gov)

• Get a referral today to a furniture nonprofit that delivers in your county

  Ask your caseworker to refer you to programs like HomeFront’s Furnish the Future in Mercer, Interfaith Furnishings in Morris, or Vincent’s Legacy (St. Vincent de Paul) in Monmouth/Ocean; these accept clients only through agencies and often deliver. (homefrontnj.org)

• Stop or prevent a utility shutoff right now so you can keep the lights and fridge running for deliveries

  Call your utility and request Winter Termination Program protection if it’s between Nov 15–Mar 15, or ask about the Summer Termination Program July–Sept 2025; then apply for USF/LIHEAP via DCAid and call the BPU hotline 1-800-624-0241 if you hit a roadblock. (nj.gov)

Quick Help Box — Keep These Numbers and Links Handy

• NJ 211 live help and text ZIP to 898‑211 for local furniture, baby items, and moving help; TTY users can dial 7‑1‑1 first, and you can also screen benefits with DCAid if you prefer self‑serve. (nj211.org)
• WFNJ/TANF & GA online application and the County Boards directory to request Emergency Assistance for “household furnishings” and moving costs when eligible. (nj.gov)
• BPU Customer Assistance 1‑800‑624‑0241 for shutoff protections and complaints, plus info on USF, Fresh Start, WTP, STP and the 2025 REAP bill credits. (nj.gov)
• NJ Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑800‑572‑SAFE and DCF hotlines for safety planning, emergency shelter, and referrals that include furniture when survivors rehouse. (njcedv.org)
• NJ Housing Resource Center and HUD New Jersey for affordable listings and counseling if you must move to a new unit that you’ll need to furnish; call NJHRC at 1‑877‑428‑8844 for search help. (nj.gov)

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Who Gives Free Furniture in New Jersey and How to Access It

Start with an agency referral and 2‑3 local nonprofits at once: Most furniture banks in New Jersey require a referral from a case manager, DV advocate, shelter, county worker, or church volunteer; ask your worker to send referrals now to HomeFront’s Furnish the Future, Interfaith Furnishings, and Vincent’s Legacy (SVDP) so you’re on multiple waitlists. Survivors and families leaving homelessness often qualify fastest, and delivery is frequently included. (homefrontnj.org)

Back yourself up with county social services and DCA’s BPU‑partner pages: If your worker can’t find a slot, ask the county to check WFNJ Emergency Assistance for “household furnishings” or a moving allowance, and call BPU Customer Assistance to keep utilities on during your move. You can also self‑refer to a community action agency via DCA’s CAA list and ask for partners who furnish apartments for re‑housed families. (unioncountynj.org)

Use peer‑to‑peer “free” networks while referrals process: Join Freecycle and your local Buy Nothing group to grab dressers, tables, and pots in your town; add Nextdoor Free Finds for quick “curb alerts,” and meet in a safe public spot. These are free, but transport is on you. (freecycle.org)

New Jersey Furniture Sources You Can Actually Use

• HomeFront’s “Furnish the Future” and FreeStore: Mercer County‑based HomeFront keeps a warehouse of donated furnishings and runs a FreeStore for housewares; you must be a HomeFront client or have a case manager referral. Use the public line at 1‑609‑989‑9417 and ask for the furniture program and FreeStore appointments, or start with HomeFront’s program page and the donation page for accepted items and size limits. (homefrontnj.org)
• Interfaith Furnishings (Morris County): Volunteers deliver furniture monthly to referred households in Morris County; ask your agency to refer you if you’re rehoused or recovering from DV. Start with Interfaith’s info or call via the listing on MapQuest, and note they coordinate with Habitat and county agencies. (norwescap.org)
• Vincent’s Legacy — St. Vincent de Paul Furniture Ministry (Monmouth & Ocean): Local SVDP parish conferences submit the referral, then the team measures your space and schedules delivery. Start by contacting your parish SVDP or use Vincent’s Legacy request page and the program overview to understand steps. (vincentslegacy.wixsite.com)
• The Warehouse NJ (Union, Essex, Morris, Somerset, Maplewood/Short Hills area): This group specializes in families exiting homelessness; most clients come through partner agencies and get housewares and furniture. Ask your case manager to refer and see The Warehouse NJ for service towns and donation rules. (thewarehousenj.org)
• Jersey Shore Rescue Mission Thrift Store voucher referrals (Asbury Park): The Mission notes that pastors or social workers may refer families for needed items; call the store at 1‑732‑807‑3506 or review the Emergency Services page and thrift store page. (jerseyshorerescue.org)
• Furniture Assist (Union/Essex region): Nonprofit distribution center in Springfield that works with over 100 agencies; families visit by appointment through an agency referral. Start at Furniture Assist’s site or call 1‑973‑868‑6007; the charity profile confirms the nonprofit’s operations. (furnitureassist.com)
• Catholic Charities of South Jersey — Community Resource Warehouse (Camden): Free furniture for clients in DV, fire loss, or refugee resettlement; pay‑what‑you‑can for the broader community. Ask your case manager about a referral and check the warehouse page as well as county offices for pickup details. (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county worker to place you on any active furniture waitlists and to issue an Emergency Assistance request for “household furnishings” or moving costs when eligible. Then post specific “ISO” requests with photo dimensions on Freecycle and Buy Nothing, and ask your church, mosque, or synagogue about St. Vincent de Paul or similar parish ministries that can deliver. (freecycle.org)

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Government Help That Can Pay for Furniture, Delivery, or Essentials

Ask for WFNJ Emergency Assistance for “household furnishings”: WorkFirst New Jersey’s Emergency Assistance can cover essential food, clothing, shelter, utility payments, transportation to search for housing, moving costs, and household furnishings for people who are homeless or have had a loss due to disaster. Apply online or at your county board; you’ll be screened for “immediate need” if you lack shelter, essential utilities, food, or clothing, with most cases decided within 30 days. Use WFNJ Apply and the Emergency Assistance page to understand the rules. (nj.gov)

Know how much cash TANF might provide in NJ: WFNJ/TANF monthly maximums are modest; for example, Schedule II lists $559foranassistanceunitofthreeand$644 for four. TANF is time‑limited to a 60‑month lifetime cap for adults, with some hardship exceptions. Review the benefit chart in state code and non‑financial time‑limit rules before you budget for second‑hand items. See N.J.A.C. 10:90‑3.3 and N.J.A.C. 10:90‑2.3 for current figures and time limits. (law.cornell.edu)

Check rental programs if moving to an unfurnished place: DCA’s State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) opens waitlists periodically and requires online pre‑applications with priority for veterans; use the DCA contact if you need a reasonable accommodation. Meanwhile, NJHRC lists affordable rentals and has a multilingual call center at 1‑877‑428‑8844 to help you search units you may need to furnish. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the county about diversion funds or one‑time assistance if TANF isn’t right for you, and ask your DV advocate to document safety needs if you’re fleeing. Then combine WFNJ or TANF cash with free sources like SVDP and Freecycle to bridge gaps while a larger referral is pending. (vincentslegacy.wixsite.com)

Table — WFNJ/TANF Monthly Maximums You Can Use Toward Essentials

Source: N.J.A.C. 10:90‑3.3; time‑limit rule: N.J.A.C. 10:90‑2.3. (law.cornell.edu)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in New Jersey Today

Call your utility and demand shutoff protection, then apply for credits: Between Nov 15 and Mar 15, ask for the Winter Termination Program protections; July–Sept 2025, electric customers may qualify under the new Summer Termination Program with 24‑month payment plans and waived reconnection fees. Next, apply for USF/LIHEAP at DCAid, and if you can’t get through, call the BPU hotline at 1‑800‑624‑0241 to escalate. (nj.gov)

Know your 2025 income limits and credits: For FY 2025, households at or below 60% of NJ’s State Median Income may qualify for USF and LIHEAP; for a family of four, that’s $7,676/month($92,108/year) per DCA’s November 18, 2024 release. USF adds monthly bill credits and connects you to Fresh Start (12‑month arrearage forgiveness) when you pay current charges each month. Use DCA’s FY2025 notice and DCA’s Fresh Start FAQ to plan. (nj.gov)

Watch for automatic 2025 bill credits with no application: The BPU’s Residential Energy Assistance Payment (REAP) gives eligible customers seven $25 bill credits starting August 1, 2025, automatically applied if your household qualified for WTP protections between Nov 15, 2024 and Mar 15, 2025. Check NJBPU’s REAP page and call your utility to confirm which account the credit hits. (nj.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for PAGE grants through SHARES for up to $700 per utility when funds exist, and ask your water company about MCAP grants via SHARES. If you’re protected but still getting threats, file an online complaint with BPU the same day. (nj.gov)

Table — Utility Protections and Help You Can Stack

Sources: BPU programs page, BPU STP page, DCA FAQ, BPU REAP. (nj.gov)

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Baby and Child Essentials — Cribs, Pack‑n‑Plays, Car Seats, and Diapers

Use specialized baby banks and safe‑sleep partners: Moms Helping Moms Foundation distributes diapers, period supplies, and select baby gear (pack‑n‑plays, strollers, high chairs) through 80+ partner agencies; contact a partner or your caseworker for a referral. Also ask about Cribs for Kids partners for safe sleep kits and pack‑n‑plays in your area, and check NJ DCF’s Safe Sleep page for guidance and the SIDS Center line. (momshelpingmoms.org)

Keep safety first with second‑hand gear: For cribs and mattresses, check recalls on CPSC’s crib safety page and avoid banned drop‑side cribs; non‑full‑size crib standards updated April 5, 2025 under 16 CFR 1220 reference ASTM F406‑24. Review the Federal Register notice and CPSC crib guidance to stay compliant. (federalregister.gov)

Local options to ask about: HomeFront’s FreeStore includes baby supplies for clients, and Catholic Charities South Jersey’s county offices note baby items for moms in need. Always confirm car seat age limits and crib safety with your agency before pickup. (homefrontnj.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call NJ 211 and ask for diaper bank partners in your county, and ask your pediatrician’s office about safe‑sleep programs that can provide a pack‑n‑play. Backstop with peer networks like Buy Nothing and verify every item against the CPSC recall search before use. (nj211.org)

Table — Baby and Toddler Essentials: Where to Get Them

Sources show gear types accepted and the safe‑sleep standards you must follow. (momshelpingmoms.org)

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Faith‑based furniture ministries can deliver quickly with parish referrals: In Monmouth and Ocean counties, Vincent’s Legacy handles home measurements and sets delivery dates once your local SVDP conference approves; in Union and the Shore, ask about Jersey Shore Rescue Mission’s thrift referrals through pastors or social workers. These ministries often serve single parents leaving homelessness. (vincentslegacy.wixsite.com)

Community‑based nonprofits coordinate full setups for re‑housed families: The Warehouse NJ focuses on families exiting homelessness around Summit/Union/Maplewood; Interfaith Furnishings serves Morris County; HomeFront serves Mercer with a warehouse program and FreeStore for housewares. Request that your housing case manager submit referrals to all three at once. (thewarehousenj.org)

When funds are short, pair free sources with low‑cost ReStores: Habitat ReStores in Gloucester and other counties sell donated furniture at low prices and may occasionally provide partner referrals; call your local affiliate and ask about vouchers. Also ask Catholic Charities South Jersey’s warehouse for “free to clients” policies if you’re already in another program. (gc-habitat.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county office for any line item that allows “money for furniture” in homeless services, as Union County explicitly lists it in its Homeless & Generalist Units. For a fresh referral, call NJ 211 and request the agency that furnishes apartments for re‑housed families in your county. (unioncountynj.org)

Table — Nonprofits by Type and Typical Access

Use your agency to submit multiple referrals on the same day so you can accept the first available delivery. (homefrontnj.org)

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Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your caseworker to mark your file for privacy and chosen‑name use, and request referrals through NJ 211 to inclusive agencies that can deliver. For utilities, your eligibility is the same under USF/LIHEAP; if you face discrimination, document it and call BPU’s hotline with a complaint. (nj211.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Request reasonable accommodations for applications and deliveries (like first‑floor delivery or extended pickup times). Use DHS Disability Community resources and BPU Customer Assistance for program navigation; ask for large‑print forms or relay services at every step. (nj.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Ask your VA social worker to coordinate a furniture referral and to screen for SRAP preferences for veterans if waitlists are open. You can also use NJHRC for accessible and veteran‑friendly listings while your agency sets up delivery. (nj.gov)

Immigrant and refugee single moms: Apply for utilities even if the household is mixed‑status; BPU notes that USF and PAGE can serve households with undocumented members, and municipal water partners are expanding SHARES MCAP grants. For furniture, ask Catholic Charities South Jersey about free furnishings for refugees. (nj.gov)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you are an enrolled member living in NJ, ask NJ 211 to search for tribal and native‑serving partners for emergency household setups. For federal rental help in Tribal HUD‑VASH or other programs, coordinate with HUD New Jersey on listings as you arrange donations and deliveries. (nj211.org)

Rural single moms with limited access: Request delivery when you get referrals, and ask your county CAA through DCA’s list for relocation or weatherization supports that can coordinate deliveries. Use Freecycle town groups and ask donors to hold items until your truck day. (nj.gov)

Single fathers: The same rules apply to any single parent; ask for WFNJ Emergency Assistance for “household furnishings,” and use BPU protections to stabilize utilities as you set up your child’s room. If you need baby items, contact Moms Helping Moms partners via your agency. (nj.gov)

Language access and accessibility: Ask for translated applications at DCAid and telephonic interpreters through NJ 211; for TTY services, dial 7‑1‑1 first. Request “large‑print applications” and note any mobility needs in your referral so volunteer teams plan first‑floor routes. (dcaid.dca.nj.gov)

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Resources by Region — Where to Start County by County

North Jersey: In Morris, use Interfaith Furnishings; in Hudson and Essex, ask for Furniture Assist referrals and check NJ 211 for free pickup postings and local furniture closets. If you’re in Jersey City/Hoboken, combine Freecycle with agency referrals and set porch pickups. (norwescap.org)

Central Jersey: In Mercer, HomeFront; in Union and adjacent towns, The Warehouse NJ. For county aid, use the Boards directory to request Emergency Assistance for “household furnishings,” and ask for delivery help when possible. (homefrontnj.org)

Shore counties: In Monmouth and Ocean, Vincent’s Legacy can furnish full apartments via SVDP conferences; also ask Jersey Shore Rescue Mission about vouchers. For utilities, combine USF/Fresh Start with WTP/STP protections. (vincentslegacy.wixsite.com)

South Jersey: In Camden County, check Catholic Charities’ warehouse for clients; also ask your county board for Emergency Assistance covering furnishings. For low‑cost backups, call your local Habitat ReStore. (catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your Community Action Agency via DCA’s list and request a partner who “furnishes units” for re‑housed families; ask to be added to multiple waitlists at once and confirm if delivery is in‑house or contracted. (nj.gov)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming every thrift store gives free furniture: Many sell only; some, like Jersey Shore Rescue Mission, may offer vouchers with a referral, but you must ask. Confirm policies before you plan a pickup. (jerseyshorerescue.org)
• Waiting until power is shut off: Apply through DCAid and call BPU before disconnection. USF can take up to 90 days to process, so recertify 3 months early. (nj.gov)
• Skipping crib safety checks on second‑hand gear: Always check CPSC crib guidance and follow NJ DCF safe sleep tips. Banned drop‑sides and recalled mattresses are common in free listings. (federalregister.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot This

• County social services referral: Ask your worker to refer you to a furniture bank like HomeFront, Interfaith Furnishings, or Vincent’s Legacy and to include delivery notes.
• ID and proof of crisis: Bring photo ID, lease, and any homeless/DV/disaster paperwork; show the WFNJ Emergency Assistance rule that lists “household furnishings.”
• Utility help confirmation: Apply via DCAid for USF/LIHEAP and ask your utility about WTP/STP protections and Fresh Start.
• Safety for baby gear: Check CPSC crib guidance and NJ DCF safe sleep before accepting any crib or mattress.
• Delivery plan: Confirm who carries items upstairs, what the window is, and if a phone call comes first; for DIY pickups, book a truck and backup helper through your network or ask your agency for moving assistance under EA.

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Timelines and What to Expect

WFNJ decisions: Counties have 30 days to decide most TANF/GA applications, with “immediate need” screening at intake for lack of shelter, essential utilities, food, or clothing. Ask for an EA request when you submit. See WFNJ Apply for process details. (nj.gov)

USF processing: The state FAQ says it can take up to 90 days to process USF; reapply 3 months early to avoid gaps. Use DCA’s FAQ and track your DCAid inbox. (nj.gov)

REAP 2025: Utilities started applying seven $25 credits August 1, 2025 to accounts identified from last winter’s WTP list—no application needed. Confirm your eligibility with your utility using BPU’s REAP page. (nj.gov)

Furniture wait times: Deliveries vary by county and inventory; many groups schedule within 1–3 weeks after referral, but ask your case manager to request the earliest slot and note any health needs. Check HomeFront and Interfaith Furnishings pages for current cadence. (homefrontnj.org)

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Troubleshooting — If Your Application Gets Denied

For WFNJ/EA: Ask for a supervisor review and cite the state’s EA scope covering “household furnishings,” moving costs, and utilities for eligible households. Bring a short letter from your landlord or shelter proving you’re moving into an unfurnished unit. Use WFNJ EA rules and the county boards directory to escalate. (nj.gov)

For utilities: File a complaint with BPU if your utility ignores WTP/STP protections or Fresh Start terms; apply for PAGE via SHARES as a fallback to reduce arrears, and ask about water MCAP grants. (nj.gov)

For furniture referrals: If a group is full, ask your caseworker to try another ministry the same day, and request help from NJ 211 to locate a second furniture program. Meanwhile, post in Freecycle and ask donors to hold items until your move‑in date. (nj211.org)

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Tables — Program Rules at a Glance

Table — USF/LIHEAP FY 2025 Income Limits (60% State Median Income)

Source: DCA press release, updated November 18, 2024, FY 2025 USF/LIHEAP. (nj.gov)

Table — Government Programs That Can Indirectly Fund Household Setup

Official sites confirm scope and application steps. (nj.gov)

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Real‑World Examples

Mercer mom re‑housed from motel: Caseworker referred her to HomeFront’s Furnish the Future for beds and a table; FreeStore appointment filled kitchen basics. Utilities stayed on using USF/Fresh Start and WTP protections requested by phone. (homefrontnj.org)

Morris mom leaving DV: Advocate submitted to Interfaith Furnishings for a bedroom set and couch, delivery scheduled on the monthly route; BPU stopped a threatened shutoff while USF processed. (norwescap.org)

Monmouth mom with newborn: Parish SVDP did the home visit, then Vincent’s Legacy measured rooms and delivered essentials; Moms Helping Moms partner provided a pack‑n‑play and diapers. (vincentslegacy.wixsite.com)

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FAQs — New Jersey and Furniture Help

1. Can SNAP buy furniture or household items: No, SNAP is for food only; instead, pair SNAP with WFNJ/EA for furnishings and furniture banks listed above. Also apply for USF to lower your monthly bills so you can afford used items if needed. (nj.gov)
2. Will anyone deliver furniture if I don’t have a truck: Yes, ministries like Interfaith Furnishings and Vincent’s Legacy deliver for referred clients; HomeFront also coordinates deliveries. Ask your caseworker to request delivery in the referral. (norwescap.org)
3. Can I get help replacing furniture after a fire or flood: If the Governor or President declared a disaster, FEMA IHP “Other Needs Assistance” may pay toward basic home furnishings and appliances; apply at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1‑800‑621‑3362. Local EA can also cover household furnishings after a qualifying disaster. (fema.gov)
4. How fast does USF/LIHEAP help show up on my bill: USF can take up to 90 days to process; ask your utility about a deferred payment plan and note that WTP/STP protections can stop shutoffs while you wait. Apply or recertify via DCAid. (nj.gov)
5. Is there any automatic bill help in 2025: Yes, REAP credits total $175,appliedasseven$25 credits to eligible accounts that were protected under WTP last winter. No application needed. (nj.gov)
6. How do I find affordable housing I can furnish slowly: Use NJHRC and call 1‑877‑428‑8844 for search help in English and Spanish; then line up SVDP or HomeFront for deliveries. (nj.gov)
7. Are there safety rules for second‑hand cribs: Yes; CPSC updated the non‑full‑size crib rule effective April 5, 2025 and bans drop‑sides. Check CPSC crib guidance and Federal Register details before using a donated crib. (federalregister.gov)
8. Who can help me apply if English isn’t my first language: Use NJ 211 for live help in many languages and DCAid, which supports multiple languages; ask your county office for an interpreter over the phone if needed. (nj211.org)
9. I’m in a DV situation and need to move with kids, can I get furniture: Call the NJ Domestic Violence Hotline and ask for relocation and setup support; shelters and coalitions often partner with furniture ministries for survivors. Apply for EA with a DV waiver as advised by your advocate. (njcedv.org)
10. Can water bills get help like gas and electric: Some water systems partner with SHARES for MCAP grants; ask your water company and call BPU for guidance. (pvwc.com)

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Application Steps — Make It Easy to Scan

• Apply for WFNJ/EA and request “immediate need” screening at your county office; show your lease or shelter letter and ask for “household furnishings” coverage in your plan. Start your WFNJ form online if you prefer. (nj.gov)
• Ask your caseworker to refer you to two furniture programs at once: HomeFront for Mercer, Interfaith Furnishings for Morris, or Vincent’s Legacy for Monmouth/Ocean, plus The Warehouse NJ if you’re exiting homelessness. (homefrontnj.org)
• Stop shutoff threats by applying for USF/LIHEAP at DCAid and calling your utility for WTP/STP protections; if needed, file a complaint with BPU. (nj.gov)
• While you wait, fill the gaps with Freecycle and Buy Nothing posts; schedule one truck day to collect everything on route. Use CPSC crib safety for baby items. (federalregister.gov)

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Este resumen fue producido con herramientas de traducción de IA. Verifique toda la información con las fuentes oficiales enlazadas aquí.

• Para muebles gratis y entrega, pida a su trabajador social una referencia a HomeFront, Interfaith Furnishings o Vincent’s Legacy (SVDP); muchos requieren una referencia de agencia.
• Para evitar cortes de luz/gas/agua, solicite USF/LIHEAP con DCAid y llame a su compañía para protección WTP/STP; si hay problemas, llame a BPU 1‑800‑624‑0241.
• Para artículos de bebé, contacte Moms Helping Moms y revise seguridad de cunas en CPSC; para sueño seguro vea NJ DCF.
• Para ayuda rápida, marque NJ 211 o use el directorio de condados para solicitar Emergencia por “muebles para el hogar”.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• NJ Department of Human Services — WorkFirst New Jersey & Emergency Assistance
• NJ Department of Community Affairs — DCAid, USF/LIHEAP, and FAQs
• NJ Board of Public Utilities — Customer Assistance, WTP/STP, and REAP
• NJ Housing Resource Center (NJHRC) — Housing Search
• NJ 211 — Live Help and Resource Directory
• HomeFront NJ — Furnish the Future and FreeStore
• Interfaith Furnishings (Morris County)
• Vincent’s Legacy (St. Vincent de Paul — Monmouth & Ocean)
• Catholic Charities of South Jersey — Community Resource Warehouse
• Moms Helping Moms Foundation and Cribs for Kids
• CPSC — Crib Safety

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 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.

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Disclaimer

This guide is informational and links you to official agencies and reputable nonprofits. Program rules and funding change; always confirm current eligibility, income limits, and wait times with the agency. For legal emergencies or safety risks, contact law enforcement or the NJ Domestic Violence Hotline at 1‑800‑572‑SAFE, and use NJ 211 for live assistance at any hour. According to state sources, USF and LIHEAP figures are current for FY 2025 and REAP credits began August 1, 2025, but you should call to confirm your household’s status. (nj.gov)

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What to do if none of this works

If every path above stalls, ask your county to document the reason and request a supervisor case conference. Then escalate utilities through BPU, re‑apply through DCAid with corrected documents, and widen your net to Freecycle and Buy Nothing for temporary basics while you wait. Keep receipts and denial letters — they can speed approvals on reconsideration. (nj.gov)

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Final Safety and Budget Notes

• Delivery safety: Meet peer‑to‑peer donors in a police parking lot when possible, and never share kids’ schedules; use NJ 211 to locate safe exchange zones if you’re unsure.
• Budgeting around USF timing: Because USF can take up to 90 days, plan for payment arrangements, add Fresh Start, and watch for REAP credits to hit bills August–February. (nj.gov)

You’ve got real, workable paths above. Use the agency referrals for large items and stack utility protections so your new home stays safe, lit, and furnished.

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🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey

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