Help In Hard Times is Available from NJ 2-1-1
www.nj211.org Offers Practical Information to Ease Financial Woes

Paramus, NJ December 17, 2008 – As the unemployment rates rise and an additional 27,000 people in our state are added to the number of those currently looking for work this month, NJ 2-1-1 answers the call for help. The organization has dedicated an entire section of its Web site at www.nj211.org to addressing the changing needs in your community.

Help in Hard Times (http://nj211.org/hardtimes08.cfm ) includes in-depth information on: Avoiding Foreclosure; Food and Nutrition Programs; Utility Assistance; and Living Through a Layoff. New sections will be added each month to include information about Health Insurance Needs and Living on a Limited Budget. These pages are filled with information about state and community resources with details including how a program works, specific eligibility requirements and full contact information. Also available at the web site is a 36 page Utility Assistance Guide that can be downloaded at the site.

All citizens facing difficult times are encouraged to dial “2-1-1” 24 hours a day, seven days a week if they need help in understanding and finding programs and services throughout the state. Language translation and TTY services are offered to any caller.

About NJ 2-1-1
NJ 2-1-1 is a statewide information and assistance network that connects NJ citizens with government, social service and community resources. Working closely with state government agencies and department leaders as well as local community organizations, NJ 2-1-1 provides information that will help NJ residents find solutions to everyday challenges as well as critical life issues. The organization has a statewide database of health and human service resources and call centers that are staffed around the clock. This free, confidential service is accessed by dialing 2-1-1 from any phone in the state or by going to www.nj211.org. NJ 2-1-1 is supported by United Way in partnership with the State of New Jersey.