Family Resource Success Center Offers Direction that Can Pay Off
Homelessness, hunger, utility assistance and health insurance are but a few of the issues handled at New Community’s Family Resource Success Center in Newark. Help finding employment is also one of the greatest reasons people walk into the center, located in the Pathmark Shopping Center on Bergen Street.
Take Natasha Marshall, for example. The 21-year-old was looking for a job, but never dreamed she would leave with a scheduled interview for the following day after sitting down with one of the center volunteers.
“I was shocked,” she said. “He (volunteer Rudolph Drakeford) was extra helpful, nice and compassionate and very concerned about what I was doing.”
Although most people walk into the center focused on just one issue, a thorough assessment of their needs is always performed as part of the intake process, according to Joann Williams- Swiney, center director.
“We may start with employment, but later learn they are also uninsured and need assistance with paying utility bills,” she explained. “We can address all of these issues in just one visit.”
The center has connections with a variety of agencies, including those run by Essex County and the state of New Jersey. Staff is able to quickly refer clients to programs that fit their circumstance. Often, the resources needed to solve a problem lie right within the New Community network, which can offer assistance for problems like homelessness, drug/alcohol abuse and senior placement.
Free eye exams are also offered at the center.