Passaic County’s Homeless Connect Day Serves Over 230 Residents with Critical Health and Support Services 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Paterson, NJ — More than 230 residents experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity were served at Passaic County’s Homeless Connect Day, held on April 8, 2026, at Calvary Baptist Church in Paterson. The event brought together over 25 community-based organizations, alongside County departments and the Passaic County Board of Social Services, to deliver essential care and resources in one centralized location.

Designed to reduce barriers and meet residents where they are, the event provided a wide range of health, housing and social services to individuals in need. Attendees received medical screenings, including vision and podiatry services, vaccinations and basic diagnostic care, as well as access to behavioral health and peer recovery support.

Participants were also connected to housing assistance, legal services, employment resources and benefits enrollment, helping to address both immediate needs and long-term stability. Many attendees took advantage of the opportunity to schedule appointments for County identification, an essential step in accessing ongoing services.

Each individual who attended received a free hot meal and care bags filled with food and essential self-care items, ensuring they left with both immediate support and connections to future assistance.

“The turnout and impact of this event speak to the importance of bringing services directly into the community,” said Passaic County Commissioner Director Sandi Lazzara. “By working alongside our community partners, we were able to provide meaningful, immediate support while helping residents take important steps toward stability, health and independence.”

To ensure accessibility, the County also provided free transportation from multiple locations, allowing residents from across Passaic County to attend and connect with services.

Homeless Connect Day reflects Passaic County’s ongoing commitment to supporting its most vulnerable residents through coordinated outreach, strong community partnerships and accessible, person-centered services.