Community Canvassing Initiative in Somerset County

Affordability continues to be a significant concern for Somerset County residents. From the rising costs of rent and utilities to increasing expenses for gas and groceries, many households are feeling financial pressure in numerous ways. Approximately 45% of Somerset County households are either living below the Federal Poverty Level (5%) or are classified as ALICE households (40%)—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. For these families, making ends meet is becoming increasingly difficult. In a county often perceived as affluent, many working households continue to struggle to afford basic necessities despite being employed

As household budgets are stretched, many residents may not be aware of the programs and services available to help them meet basic needs and maintain financial stability. To bridge that gap and ensure residents have access to critical resources and support, Somerset County launched the second year of its Community Canvassing Initiative in partnership with Civic Operations Group. The initiative deploys locally recruited canvassers who go door-to-door to connect residents with a wide range of essential services, including behavioral health resources, food assistance, housing and financial support, aging and disability programs, and recovery-related tools such as Naloxone.

The first year of outreach, conducted in 2025, focused on the municipalities of Somerville, North Plainfield, Manville, Bound Brook, South Bound Brook, Hillsborough, and Bridgewater. During that effort, canvassers knocked on more than 97,000 doors, engaged in 18,000 conversations, and connected residents to more than 3,700 resources and services.

The second and final year of outreach launched on April 20. To date, canvassers have knocked on more than 36,000 doors and engaged in over 5,000 conversations, resulting in more than 650 resource connections. Many of these conversations have led residents to seek assistance from Somerset County Human Services Navigators for help with utility assistance programs, SNAP benefits, and Medicaid enrollment.

Notably, approximately 50% of residents who have engaged with canvassers are aged 60 or older. These older adults have received information about paratransit services that provide transportation to and from medical appointments, as well as guidance on property tax relief programs, including Stay NJ, ANCHOR, and the Senior Freeze Program.

Food assistance continues to be one of the most requested topics during outreach efforts. Residents frequently report that rising household expenses make it increasingly difficult to purchase nutritious food for themselves and their families. In response, canvassers provide information about the County's food pantries, senior nutrition programs, SNAP benefits, and school meal programs. Residents also receive guidance on eligibility requirements and assistance with enrollment opportunities.

Through direct, neighborhood-based outreach, Somerset County continues to meet residents where they are, ensuring they are aware of the programs, services, and supports available to help improve their quality of life and financial stability. Keep an eye out in the following municipalities for canvassers to be in your area: Franklin, Hillsborough, Bridgewater, Branchburg, Bedminster, Greenbrook, Watchung, Warren, Raritan, and Bernardsville.

If you have not had a canvasser arrive to your home and are interested in the shared Somerset County resources, please visit us our online Guide: Human Services Resource Guide | Somerset County and/or connect with our bilingual Human Services Navigators Somerset County NJ Navigators.

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