theconnectionsnj.com HOLIDAY CHEER PAGE 16 908-333-0791 204 South Main St., Manville, NJ Book your services at www.DeepSeaFacial.com Relax * Renew * Rejuvenate Book your Appointment Today! Services • Skin Treatments: Including a wide array of facials, microdermabrasion & hydropeel • Lash Services • Chemical Peels • Waxing • Contouring Treatments • Add-Ons Available Gift Certificates Available t’s a phrase we hear often in December — evoking images of family gatherings, childhood homes, and warm reunions. But for many in Somerset County, the idea of “home” is far from reality. Some individuals and families face financial hardship, housing instability, or a lack of support systems. For them, the holidays can be a time of isolation and uncertainty. That’s where HOME of HOME of Somerset County steps in. Founded in 1992 as the Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN), the organization rebranded in 2021 as HOME: HOME: Housing Outreach Multifaith Empowerment. This name reflects our expanded mission: to provide shelter, support, and empowerment to those experiencing homelessness. HOME offers: • Emergency shelter, including meals and basic services • Transitional support, such as counseling, life skills, and case management • A compassionate team of staff and volunteers from local interfaith congregations Together, we help individuals and families rebuild their lives and rediscover what it means to have a place to call home. community can help, please reach out. Contact HOME at 908-704-1920 to learn more or get involved. Let’s ensure that more people in Somerset County can truly be home for the holidays — not just in spirit, but in reality. Homelessness is rising — even in affluent Somerset County. At HOME’s office at 98 West End Avenue in Somerville, staff regularly meet people who have been sleeping in cars for days, weeks, or months. The need is urgent, and the response must be immediate. In 2024, HOME provided shelter every week of the year: • 65% of those weeks were hosted by local congregations • 35% required hotel stays — a costly but necessary option as hosting capacity declines Hotel costs are increasing, and every dollar donated helps offset these expenses and supports vital services like food security, basic health care, and transportation. How YOU Can Help This holiday season, you can make a meaningful impact: • Give Funds: Your donation directly supports shelter, meals, and essential services. • Give Time: Volunteers are the heart of HOME — your time and talents are deeply valued. • Give Space: HOME urgently needs new hosting congregations. If your faith COMMUNITY NEWS... HOME for the Holidays By Doug Dzwonczyk I
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzA2NDY0