Homeless Connect Day Coming to Essex County

More than 65 community and faith-based organizations are scheduled to attend the 8th Annual Essex County Project Homeless Connect Day, an all-day event providing the homeless with the opportunity to learn about available social services and health-related programs in a convenient, centralized location. 

Project Homeless Connect will be held on Thursday, March 27, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Essex County Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Facility, Clifton Avenue and Seventh Street, Newark.

“Project Homeless Connect Day will raise awareness about the programs and services that are available to help our homeless residents. On March 27th, our roller skating rink will be transformed into a one-stop information center where clients can escape from the elements and connect with a variety of agencies to receive essential services,” said Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo, Jr. “We encourage our homeless clients to take advantage of the activities and participate in this year’s census."

Project Homeless Connect Day is a collaborative effort between the county and over 65 community and faith-based organizations. 

“An event like this is a tremendous undertaking and we thank our many partners for their participation. By combining our resources more efficiently, we can provide assistance to our less fortunate residents,” DiVincenzo said.

Homeless residents visiting the Essex County Branch Brook Park Roller Rink will receive a nutritious meal and have access to information about available programs and services specifically geared for homeless clients. Among the services being offered are: public assistance, health screenings, mental health services, emergency services, educational services, veterans services, employment services and free haircuts.