Effort Underway To Continue To Prevent, End Homelessness In Bergen Co.

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — An event being held Wednesday in Bergen County is allowing organizations an opportunity to meet the needs of people experiencing homelessness, and to effectively provide access to services, the county said in a news release.

Project Homeless Connect, a "one-day countywide effort" designed to improve access to resources and increase awareness of issues facing homeless and at-risk residents, is taking place at the Bergen County Housing, Health and Human Services Center in Hackensack, the news release posted to insidernj.com said.

Medical services, and information and referrals in the areas of housing, legal and employment assistance will be available at the event.

In conjunction with with PHC, a survey will be executed to provide a snapshot of families experiencing homeless or may be at risk of homelessness.

Results of the "point-in-time" survey will help Bergen County determine the best allocation of resources and allow departments to advocate for additional resources from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

“Unfortunately, homelessness is a reality and a concern everywhere across the country,” Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco said. “PHC and the survey help us to further connect county residents to much-needed services."

During the survey, staff and volunteers will provide individuals and families with information and assistance, and collect demographic data.

“The data gathered through the PIT count will assist with program planning and development,” Bergen County Commissioner Chairman Tom Sullivan said. “Once we know the extent of our homeless population, we can better address their needs and find ways to prevent homelessness in the future.”

Bergen County is the first community in the nation to end, or reach (and sustain) "functional zero," for long-term homelessness, HUD recognized in 2017. The county is also the first in New Jersey to end chronic veteran homelessness, HuffPost reported in 2016.

"We have learned over the years that battling homelessness is a moving target," the county executive said, "and that is why we must continue to work hard to combat homelessness in Bergen County with our partners wherever we find it."