NEPTUNE TOWNSHIP - State Senator Vin Gopal joined Assembly Members Eric Houghtaling and Joann Downey in announcing two state grants to the Affordable Housing Alliance Inc. of Monmouth County.
The first award, $323,787 from the Department of Community Affairs’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, will provide funds to assist low-income households in Monmouth County that are having difficulty meeting their heating and cooling expenses. In addition, the Community Services Block Grant - Non-Discretionary program has approved a $219,650 award to provide funds for health, education, employment, housing and other services benefiting individuals and families with low incomes in Monmouth County.
“The Affordable Housing Alliance’s team of knowledgeable, compassionate difference-makers helps people in need manage the costs of renting or buying a home,” said Gopal (D-Long Branch). “Helping people feel secure in their homes gives them a sense of stability and peace of mind.”
The Affordable Housing Alliance, based in Neptune, provides housing and related relief to all who need it. In addition to assistance with utility bills, the Alliance offers rental and homeownership help, mortgage and foreclosure counseling, and homebuyer education.
“Even though we have seen a decrease in unemployment the housing and related costs in NJ have continued to rise faster than the cost of living. Our frail, disabled, and very low-income families can be assured that there are resources immediately available to keep the heat and power on,” said Affordable Housing Alliance CEO Donna M. Blaze. “No one should spend their winters cold or in the dark. We are glad to be the administrator of federal and state resources helping families keep their utility bills current.”
“No one should be without heat in the winter or air conditioning in the of summer,” said Houghtaling (D-Neptune). “These are basic needs, and basic rights to a healthy living environment, that the Affordable Housing Alliance fights for every day.”
“It is hard for people to focus on getting a better job, helping their children do well in school - giving their family a better life - when they are worried where they will find the money to pay their bills and keep their heat from being turned off,” said Downey (D-Freehold). “The Affordable Housing Alliance is a community catalyst for change and I’m certain they will maximize these awards to help hundreds of Monmouth County residents.”
To speak to someone or set up an appointment with the Affordable Housing Alliance, which also has offices in Eatontown and Freehold, call (732) 389-2958, or visit them online at www.njpoweron.org.
