8-19-2024 8:11am

Somerset County Provides $2M+ for Community Safety Net Programs

Donnella Tilery Editor

SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Somerset County Board of County Commissioners allocated almost $2.1 million in funding to non-profits and other community safety net organizations as part of its bi-annual Non-Profit Purchase of Service (NPPOS) allocations. The 2004-2005 cycle ensures Somerset County residents can get the services they need to address issues such as opioid and other addictions, mental health challenges, family food insecurity, and more.

“Somerset County is committed to providing the services and programs our residents need when times are tough, and we are proud to partner with these world-class non-profits to fulfill that commitment,” said Commissioner Shanel Y. Robinson. “No matter how good the economy, or how wealthy the County, there are still families and neighbors struggling and we want to be there to help.”

Non-profits are invited each fall to apply for funding for programs that fit in five main categories: 1) Basic Services, 2) Mental Health, 3) Dependent Care; and 4) Assistance for Persons with Disabilities. The fifth category, substance use programming, is funded through Chapter 51 funds from the state of NJ.

“The United States is facing serious issues with opioid deaths, food insecurity, and housing and it is our responsibility as a community to do everything we can to make a difference,” said Commissioner Paul Drake, liaison to the Somerset County Department of Human Services. “The people of Somerset County have always been there for neighbors and families in need, and I’m proud at the support they show each of these non-profits.”

The current round of NPPOS funding is an increase of $200,000 in traditional funding over the previous round, an increase that reflects the increased need in the community. Following COVID, Somerset County allocated an additional $2.8 million in one-time funding for NPPOS programs to specifically address pandemic-related issues facing Somerset County residents.

The NPPOS process is driven by the Somerset County Department of Human Services and is a key strategy to measure the needs of county residents in a data driven manner so the County and its non-profit partners can deliver fiscally sound services. The allocations are designed to provide a safety net of essential services for residents of Somerset County who meet the federal guidelines of low and low-moderate income guidelines up to 350% of the 2021 Federal Poverty Index.