Meet with a Social Worker
Need assistance with a social issue like applying for programs and benefits, addressing mental health or substance abuse concerns, or connecting with community resources for help and support? You can meet privately with licensed social worker Heather Barry at the library!
Our social worker’s current schedule can be found here. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are strongly suggested!
Please note that due to confidentiality issues, library staff are not able to make appointments for you, you must reach out to Heather directly. She can be contacted by phone (908) 226-7625 (leave a detailed message) or email hbarry@southplainfieldnj.com
South Plainfield Social Services
90 Maple Ave (located inside South Plainfield Senior Center) Open to residents of South Plainfield by appointment only (908) 226-7625.
3145 Park Avenue. Pop-up Pantry, generally the third Wednesday of each month at 5:00 PM. No residency requirements (908) 757-4474.
149 South Plainfield Avenue. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 9 AM – 11 AM Open to South Plainfield Residents only (908) 756-0633 X 112.
REPLENISH (Middlesex County)
Information on food assistance including a directory of food pantries in the county and how to apply for SNAP (Supplemental Assistance Nutrition Program)
Middlesex County Food Assistance
Information for residents of Middlesex County.
Assistance for those experiencing homelessness or those in need of emergency housing.
Emergency Housing Middlesex County
Emergency assistance services, including payment of overdue rent, mortgage and utility bills.
Department of Community Affairs Housing Assistance
Help with evictions and assistance with moving out of temporary accommodations into stable, permanent housing. They cover Homelessness Prevention Program (HPP), Housing Choice Voucher Section 8 program, and the State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP).
A free online searchable registry of affordable and accessible housing units in NJ.
A PDF booklet published by Legal Services of NJ.
Housing information for both homeowners and renters, including tenant’s rights and avoiding foreclosure.
George J. Otlowski Center for Mental Health Care
A comprehensive community mental health center for residents of Middlesex County ages 5+
Emergency resources for individuals in crisis (children – adults).
NJ Mental Health Services Locator
A locator for mental health services in Middlesex County.
Rutgers Acute & Emergency Services
Emergency mental health treatment and screening services for individuals of all ages.
A directory of behavioral health services compiled by Middlesex County’s Office of Human Services.
24/7 addiction helpline. Available to all NJ residents regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.
A directory of services compiled by Middlesex County’s Office of Human Services.
The council on compulsive gambling of NJ.
Information for families, communities, and professionals to help prevent and address substance use disorders.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
Help available 24/7 by phone, text, or chat.
Resources to help young people navigate healthy relationships.
NJ Coalition to End Domestic Violence
Includes help for deaf/hard of hearing victims.
24 hour helpline (many languages, including Spanish) for crisis counseling & referrals, as well as emergency shelter & housing services, advocacy services, and counseling.
Help for children who have witnessed domestic violence.
Help for domestic abuse victims to stay safe while leaving an abusive relationship.
Help for domestic abuse victims to find permanent, affordable, & safe housing.
A PDF booklet published by the National Institute on Aging.
Resources for families compiled by the Caregiver Action Network covering a range of topics including caregiver support, pain management, financial considerations, and managing emotions.
Advice on dealing with seniors who refuse to accept help that they need.
Guides covering over 25 topics giving guidance and providing clear, practical instructions for dealing with common caregiving problems.
Government Benefits & Financial Help
Find out which benefits you and your family may be eligible for and how to apply.
A way to connect with resources relating to issues like food, substance abuse, job training, emergency preparedness, veterans’ services, housing and caregiving.
connects New Jersey residents to cost-saving and life-changing programs. Use the program finder to help identify which programs you may be eligible for.
Check if you are eligible for food assistance, cash assistance, or health insurance.
Middlesex County Board of Social Services
Find information on help with food, housing, child support, medical assistance and cash assistance.
On-demand transportation for seniors and people with disabilities to medical appointments, life-sustaining treatments, physical therapy, recreational and shopping within Middlesex County.
A federal program that provides eligible low-income individuals with a free smartphone and free wireless phone service.
A PDF from the Department of Community Affairs containing information on programs to help with your utility bills.
