Strengthening Families

SHREWSBURY, NJ (April 25, 2023) - The Bayshore Family Success Center emerged in the wake of Superstorm Sandy’s devastating hit to the Jersey Shore. It became a place where Bayshore families could find much needed relief and support services to rebuild their lives.

Ten years later, the center – relocated to Leonardo from its original location at the Union Beach Memorial Library – continues to be a source of strength and hope for families in need across the Bayshore community, from Keyport to Highlands.

On April 20, the community came together to celebrate the center’s tenth anniversary at the Henry Hudson Trail Activity Center, 945 Highway 36 in Leonardo.

Operated by the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County’s Counseling and Social Services unit with funding from the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, the center has provided support services to more than 20,000 Bayshore residents during the past 10 years.

“We’re here to prevent families from crises,” said Laurie Goganzer, president and chief executive officer of the Y.

Darcy Hazard (Dobens), director of the Bayshore Family Success Center, said the community-based center welcomes Bayshore residents for family support, information and services to help them thrive.

During the COVID pandemic, the center remained open and responded to families with up-to-date information about the health emergency, relief programs, and distributed crisis food boxes from Fulfill and infant items from its own baby pantry.

The center works closely with Bayshore mayors, local school districts, the faith-based community, Monmouth County government officials and other nonprofits to provide wrap-around care services to protect and strengthen families.

Families in need can contact the center at 732.497.3811 or visit its website for more information.

About YMCA of Greater Monmouth County
YMCA of Greater Monmouth County is here for all – to empower youth and teens, improve health and strengthen community. Over the past five years, our Y has provided more than $5 million in financial assistance and subsidies to Y participants throughout greater Monmouth County. Our life-changing programs and services are anchored in eight communities: health and wellness facilities in Freehold Township, Old Bridge and Red Bank; an outdoor day camp in Wall; counseling and social service centers in Eatontown, Matawan and Middletown; a childcare center in Freehold Township; and integrated in 100 schools in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Named a New Jersey Top Workplace 2022 by New Jersey Advance Media, we’re based in Shrewsbury, NJ. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.