County Officials Aiding Homeless in Morristown

MORRISTOWN, N.J.– St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Morristown on Thursday will be the site of Project Homeless Connect.

The event's goal is to "[connect] the county’s homeless and most vulnerable residents to vital resources they need to survive," said Morris County Communications and Digital Media Manager Larry Ragonese.

"The event will be a sort of one-stop shopping event linking attendees to a host of services and programs offered in the county, and to provide those services in a dignified setting for the recipients," Ragonese said.

From 10 a.m.–2 p.m., homeless individuals can "walk in and get a hot cup of coffee, a snack, a haircut, flu shots and be linked to community services through representatives from various community agencies," according to Ragonese.

These individuals can also leave with a free blanket, coat and gloves, he added.

Additionally, Ragonese said, attendees will receive information on available health care, housing, energy assistance, domestic violence, mental health, and veterans’ services, among many others.

Said Freeholder Director Kathy DeFillippo: "This is a very important effort being made by our human services and social services teams in Morris County, who are trying to reach out to as many of the county’s neediest residents as possible, and to provide that help with dignity for the residents.

Added Deputy Freeholder Director Hank Lyon: "This is a time for us all to think about what we are thankful for, a perfect time to share compassion with our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness, and to work towards a world where none of our county residents have to experience homelessness and hunger."

Morris Freeholders endorsed the program last week after being briefed by representatives of the Mental Health Association of Morris County, according to Ragonese.

The freeholders also proclaimed November as Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month in Morris County.

To volunteer or make a donation, call Rose Brown at (973) 334-3496, ext. 202, or Chiffon Richshard at (973) 334-3496, ext. 502.

St. Peter’s Church is located at 70 Maple Ave.

Pictured: MHA President and CEO Louis Schwarcz

Photo courtesy County of Morris