Housing, Outreach, Prevention, & Education Project (HOPE Project) is designed to assist Ocean County residents who are experiencing housing insecurity and/or homelessness.
Through intensive one-on-one case management, group support, and resource navigation, The HOPE Project empowers individuals to overcome barriers to stable housing and long-term well-being.  The HOPE Project staff are Peers, who have lived experience with housing challenges, provide compassionate, experience-based guidance using evidence-based practices to help participants achieve housing stability, self-sufficiency, and improved quality of life.

Homelessness and housing insecurity can create overwhelming challenges, but no one has to face them alone. The HOPE Project provides a compassionate, peer-driven support system that helps individuals navigate barriers, build connections, and take steps toward long-term housing security and self-sufficiency.  By empowering participants through peer mentorship, advocacy, and resource navigation, the HOPE Project ensures that individuals have the support, tools, and confidence they need to secure stable housing and build a brighter future.

• Intensive One-on-One Case Management
  Personalized support to identify and address barriers to housing security.
• Housing & Benefit Navigation
  Assistance with finding housing programs, applying for benefits, and accessing essential services.
• Socialization & Community Support
  Group sessions to foster peer connections, reduce Isolation, and build resilience.
• Transportation Assistance
  Help with accessing appointments, job interviews, and essential services to support housing stability.
• Participant Assistance
  Flexible, individualized support tailored to the participant’s unique needs and goals.
• Advocacy & Self-Sufficiency Promotion
  Peer guidance to empower individuals to navigate housing systems and advocate for themselves.
• Experience-Based Support
  Certified Peer Recovery Specialists use their lived experience and training to provide compassionate, effective guidance.

The HOPE Project is a FREE program available to Ocean County residents, 18yrs or older, who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of losing their housing. The HOPE Project is offered in English & Spanish, and can be provided in both of MHAOC’s Office Locations:

• Toms River Office
  25 South Shore Drive, Toms River, 08753
• Manahawkin Office
  691 Mill Creek Rd (Unit 13) Manahawkin, 08050

Age Groups	Adults
Community Services	Basic Needs / Assistance Financial Counseling / Literacy Housing / Shelter Transportation Family & Support Services Family Support
Payment Types	Free
Language Spoken	Spanish

Last Updated: 03/07/26