The City of Hoboken has just launched their “Fresh Start” program to aid those experiencing homelessness, including providing showers, haircuts, clothing, food, and more.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and the opportunity for a fresh start. Our goal with this initiative is to provide not only basic amenities but also a renewed sense of self-worth and hope for a better future,” Mayor Ravi Bhalla said in a statement.
“We know that homelessness is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach, which is why the new initiative aims to help address both the immediate needs of those experiencing homelessness while also connecting them to long-term services. Thank you to our local businesses and non-nonprofits for partnering with us on this initiative.”
Spearheaded by the city’s social workers and the Office of Constituent Services, the initiative helps supply some fundamental needs to those without homes that encompasses hygiene, grooming, clothing, and sustenance.
As communities across the country grapple with providing support to the unhoused, Hoboken’s Fresh Start Program is a proactive response to alleviate some of the hardships vulnerable individuals may face.
The program offers a safe and welcoming space where participants can access much-needed resources including shower trailers, haircuts, clean clothing, nutritious sandwiches, and connection to vital services.
Through a partnership with Archangel Raphael’s Mission, Street Life Ministry, Markdaniel Barbershop, and the W Hotel, the city provided 11 individuals with haircuts and 17 with showers, hygiene care packets, clothing, food, and more on Monday.
For further information about the Fresh Start program, please contact Hoboken social workers Lori Hetzel at lhetzel@hobokennj.gov and Bianca Hoffer at Bhoffer@hobokennj.gov.
More information on Hoboken’s social workers can be found here, the Archangel Raphael’s Mission website is here, and the Street Life Ministry Inc. website is here.