Just Believe Inc. Aims To Build On Success In Aiding Homeless

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Runners will be heading to Winding River Park on Saturday for the Just Believe Inc. 5K race.

The race is a fundraiser for the nonprofit organization that works to help people out of homelessness into permanent housing and stable lives.

Registration for the 5K run/walk is $30, and the 1K walk is $20. Check-in begins at 7 a.m. and the race begins at 8 a.m. Register at www.raceforum.com/believe or contact Linda at justbelievefundraising@gmail.com.

Just Believe Inc. is coming off the 2023-24 winter season where they assisted 189 different people with Code Blue accommodations over 114 Code Blue nights, four of which were in place for 24 hours. There were 2,711 bed nights — nights that a person occupied a bed.

They assisted 11 people into detox and rehab situations, and five into sober living, and helped 67 people (and families) into permanent housing.

Seven people were able to obtain gainful employment, and 11 people had their identification restored.

That assistance was provided thanks in part to 5,610 hours of service by volunteers, who helped distribute more than 6,700 items to Code Blue guests, including clothing, shoes and hygiene products, according to the organization.

They also work with 12 nonprofits on site at the Riverwood recreation building and at the Ocean's Harbor House site, which started housing families with children in January. Among the nonprofits are those who help with insurance, obtaining mental health services, substance abuse treatment, obtaining flu shots, IDs and housing.

Saturday's fundraiser goes to support ongoing work in when Code Blue is out of season to help people into permanent housing.