Milltown, N.J. – United Way of Central Jersey (UWCJ) has launched a Family Financial Opportunity Center (FOC) to help low to moderate income individuals and families increase their earnings, reduce debt, build assets and make smart financial decisions. FOC services include one-to-one coaching and workshops in three key areas: financial counseling, income support assistance, and employment coaching. Coaches develop long-term relationships with clients as they progress to achieving financial prosperity. Families with young children are the FOC’s first priority, but all are welcome.
People seeking FOC services can call (201)604-1366 or email ffoc@uwcj.org., and an FOC coach will conduct a confidential intake and provide a comprehensive list of services based on their unique situation. Then, the coaches will provide counseling and connect clients to services, including ESL and citizenship classes, job training and career development courses. All FOC staff are bilingual and bicultural.
The FOC also will provide free tax and ITIN preparation through UWCJ’s VITA program. There will be an on-site Computer Lab, a Reading Corner for young children who visit the FOC with their parents, and a Career Closet for clients who need business attire for interviews.
“We look forward to providing high-quality, wealth-building coaching and resources for Perth Amboy families, with a priority of helping families with the greatest need,” said Gloria Aftanski, President and Chief Professional Officer of UWCJ, who also noted that, “this initiative complements UWCJ’s “Little Hands, Big Futures” program, which offers care management, including housing resources, immigration assistance, and child care for under-resourced families with young children ages 0 to 5.
United Way’s Family FOC is supported by the U.S. Department of Labor. A total of $425,000 or 40 percent of the program, is financed with federal funds and $625,000 or 60% is funded by local sources. Other major funders are the City of Perth Amboy, the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners and the Provident Bank Foundation. The Local Initiatives Support Corporation provides program, technical and resource development assistance for the United Way Family FOC.
For more information or to speak with an FOC coach, please call (201)604-1366 or email ffoc@uwcj.org.
Additional photos of the Open House are here.
From left to right: Diane Roman, Director, Human Services, City of Perth Amboy; Gloria Aftanski; Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr., 6th District; Julie Diaz, Deputy Commissioner, NJ Department of Labor and Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin J. Caba
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About United Way of Central Jersey
United Way of Central Jersey fights the effects of poverty by supporting the education, health and financial stability needs of low-income and vulnerable children and their families. For more information, visit www.UWCJ.org.