Stemming from the success of Jersey City’s free public showers program, which specifically targets the homeless population to promote personal hygiene amid the pandemic, the City is investing $2 million to target complex population health problems by greatly increasing services offered to the homeless – ranging from permanent shower facilities and free laundry to expanding case management operations and mental health services. A resolution will go before City Council on April 15th to establish the partnership and commitment of funds for the renovated location at 514 Newark Ave in Jersey City.

“We are looking to take a more comprehensive approach to help our homeless residents with a resource-oriented facility that can provide assistance in a setting that also provides dignity and respect,” said Mayor Fulop. 

“Garden State Community Development Corporation is excited to partner with the City of Jersey City on the redevelopment of the program space for GSCDC’s Hudson CASA Coordinated Entry Program for the Homeless, which serves Hudson County’s homeless individuals and families. With Jersey City providing showers, laundry, and food service to our program, it will greatly improve the level of service provided to some of our most vulnerable residents,” said Carol Mori, GSCDC Executive Director.

The existing drop-in center operated by GSCDC is largely funded by the City through the Division of Community Development to help those seeking emergency housing and street outreach. The new and expanding services will be provided by Jersey City’s Department of Health and Human Services. The site additions include the following:

• Installation of permanent showers.
• New congregate dining facility incorporating social distancing features.
• New, free laundry facility.
• Transformation of the building’s unused entry space into a new Welcome Center, incorporating social distancing features.
• Renovation and expansion of the case management and intake facilities operated by Garden State Episcopal.
• Renovation of bathrooms.
• Installation of an elevator to ensure ADA compliance and to better serve residents.

“Now more than ever, the growing need for vital health and safety services is critical for everyone in our community,” said Vivian Brady-Phillips, JCHA Director. “By transforming this site, we’re creating a one-stop center and trusted resource for anyone experiencing homelessness where they can find a longer-term solution for housing and access essential support services.”

“What we have already been able to accomplish at our Mobile Showers Site alone has been tremendous, especially during the pandemic where hygiene has proven to play a critical role in reducing the spread throughout the community,” said Stacey Flanagan, HHS Director. “In the past year, we’ve seen an exponential increase in residents asking for help with food and other basic necessities. By building a more permanent resource with a myriad of services available to those in need, we are providing the tools for long-term stability and success.” 

About Garden State Community Development Corporation (GSCDC):

GSCDC is dedicated to ending homelessness in Hudson County and is the lead agency in this effort. In 2014, GSCDC implemented the Hudson CASA Coordinated Entry Program for homeless individuals and families in the County, and serves over 3,500 homeless persons annually. To date, GSCDC has developed over 332 units of safe, decent, affordable housing and provides 250 units of permanent supportive housing for homeless individuals and families that include comprehensive case management wrap-around services to ensure continued housing stability.