Dozens of Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition volunteers and workers gather at Holy Cross Lutheran Church to discuss how they can help the area's homeless. The meeting's goal is to build a network of like-minded people who can establish that safety net.
Providing Solutions
During the meeting, they discuss the coalition's primary issues, such as finances, staffing, and location. Providing a safe haven for the homeless is viewed as a problematic responsibility for the alliance, which is also addressed during the discussion.
Gemma MacCarrick Brennan, President of St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Luke's, speaks at the meeting. She stated that having a safe place to stay is essential to the homeless, and she learned about this concern when she met them in person, a source posted.
According to Pastor Sue Jones of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, while most people understand what it's like to be homeless, the majority of homeless people are invisible. He added that cooperation is needed to serve the unhoused population because no organization can do it alone.
Those present at the event suggested that communication with the school is necessary so that teachers and counselors can determine which families require the most assistance. Following the main program, people broke into small groups to talk, network, and make plans.
The Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition are open every Monday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Helping Unhoused Population in Toms River
Though the Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition was founded earlier, the ribbon-cutting ceremony was held later. It was led by Pastor Sue Jones of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, who stated that their goal is to be a nexus connecting different agencies.
The coalition collaborates with various agencies to assist homeless people in Toms River and throughout the country. County Commissioner Barbara Jo Crea attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. She serves as the Board of Social Services' liaison. Toms River Mayor Maurice "Mo" Hill also promised to work with and help the coalition.
Other organizations, such as Toms River Housing and Homeless Coalition, assist the unhoused population in Toms River. In collaboration with Boutique By Journeys, they host the Fall Into Fall Gift Auction and Food Fest on Nov. 12.
The homeless charity supports not only the physical but also the mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of their homeless neighbors. They assist with meal delivery, permanent housing, addiction, and other mental health issues.
About Holy Cross Lutheran Church
The church cordially invites visitors to participate in the many ministries we are called in Christ Jesus. It is a vibrant faith community that is growing together, sharing God's blessings, and bearing witness to God's love for the world.
The church is located at 1500 Hoppers Avenue in Toms River and holds in-person and online worship services. Worship service is scheduled at 5 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. on Sundays. Those who cannot attend can view the worship live via Facebook.
