TOMS RIVER – A major investment aimed at tackling homelessness in Ocean County took shape this month as RWJBarnabas Health presented a $1 million donation to the Ocean County Homelessness Trust Fund, marking one of the largest private contributions to the initiative since its creation.
The check was formally presented by Dr. Teri Kubiel, Vice President of Community Affairs for RWJBarnabas Health, alongside Stan Evanowski, Administrative Director of Barnabas Behavioral Health, at the most recent meeting of the Ocean County Commissioners.
“RWJ Barnabas Health recognizes that wellness goes beyond the walls of the hospital and the doctor’s offices,” Kubiel said. “Wellness happens out in the community, and one of the social determinants of health that we focus on is community members. So with that being said, we are proud to partner with you and offer to you a $1 million check to the homelessness trust funds here at Ocean County to assist our residents who are currently suffering with housing issues.”
A Fund Designed To Fill Critical Gaps
Ocean County established its Homelessness Trust Fund in 2023 to create a dedicated, local funding stream focused on preventing and addressing homelessness. The program is supported primarily through a $5 surcharge on certain recorded documents, with funds staying within the county to support residents in need.
Unlike many federal or state programs with strict eligibility requirements, the trust fund was designed to provide flexibility, helping individuals and families who may otherwise fall through the cracks.
Funding can be used for a wide range of services, including rental assistance, supportive services, and programs that help people secure and maintain permanent housing. The money is distributed through a competitive grant process, with an emphasis on evidence-based programs that can demonstrate measurable reductions in homelessness.
County officials have repeatedly emphasized that the fund is not intended to build or operate shelters, but rather to prevent homelessness and move people into stable, long-term housing solutions.
Addressing A Complex Crisis
The $1 million contribution comes as local leaders continue to grapple with a homelessness crisis driven by multiple factors, including a shortage of affordable housing and the challenges of transitioning individuals from temporary placements into permanent homes.
Experts widely recognize that homelessness is often intertwined with behavioral health challenges. The New Jersey Department of Human Services and organizations like Monarch Housing Associates have identified mental health conditions and substance use disorders as common contributing factors among individuals experiencing homelessness, particularly those with long-term or repeated housing instability.
Local data shared during Ocean County task force meetings has reflected that reality, with many individuals relying on disability benefits, struggling with employment, or requiring ongoing support services to maintain housing.
RWJBarnabas Health’s involvement highlights a growing recognition within the healthcare sector that housing stability is directly tied to overall health outcomes. The contribution is expected to significantly expand the county’s ability to fund programs that provide rental assistance, case management, and other supportive services, particularly for residents who do not qualify for traditional aid.
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