Harvey Whille, President

Matthew Molinaro, Secretary-Treasurer

John Colella, Recorder

Local 1262 Member Assistance Program Job Transition Resource Kit For NJ Residents

UFCW Local 1262 1389 Broad Street — Clifton, NJ 07013

973-777-3700 — Fax: 973-777-3430

Table of Contents Page 2 - 3 Job Search Fact Sheet Page 4 New Jersey One Stop Career Centers List Page 5 One Stop Job Search Readiness Workshops Page 6 - 8 NJ State Unemployment Information (UI) - How to file for UI, Frequently Asked Questions, Making use of the NJ Department of Labor website, and Helpful Resources Page 9 - 12 Health Care Resources - a comprehensive list of affordable/free health care resources and services Page 12 2-1-1 Statewide Helpline and One Stop Shopping Resources Page 13 - 15 MAP Energy Assistance Resource Guide

Dear Pathmark Members,

As part of Local 1262’s ongoing effort to assist you during this stressful time, our Member Assis-tance Program (MAP) has developed this Job Transition Resource Kit. This Kit is quite compre-hensive and, in fact, provided the basis for a pro-gram currently being implemented by the UFCW/RWDSU for other members employed by A&P-owned companies.

This Kit contains information on how to search for a new job and how to file for unemployment and other benefits. It also contains information on the many local, state and federal programs available — ranging from assistance with health care to energy bills.

To use this Kit, simply visit the page listed below where you will find an overview on these pro-grams and links to their web sites.

Similar information for members who live in New York State or Pennsylvania can be

accessed by visiting www.ufcwmemberresources.com.

As always, I consider it an honor and a privilege to represent you,

Fraternally,

Harvey Whille President, UFCW Local 1262

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Job Search Fact Sheet

Career Transition Information

UFCW Local 1262 is providing support for our Pathmark members through this

“MAP Job Transition Resource Kit” in order to make them aware of the many

services & programs available.

UFCW NJ State Unemployment Information provides a good overview of unemployment and how to file. It also lists helpful community service supports.

UFCW NJ Health Care Resources provides a comprehensive list of health care services, pro-grams and governmental agencies available to NJ residents with limited or no health insurance as well as national and local Prescription Drug Discount Programs.

2-1-1 or 877 652-1148 is the NJ statewide helpline for confidential assistance with any is-sue such as energy and rental assistance, health & children’s services, etc. The website is http://search.nj211.org/ UFCW NJ Energy Assistance Guide provides a comprehensive list of all energy assistance programs in NJ, and includes eligibility and ap-plication guidelines.

One-Stop Career Centers

There are One-Stop Career Centers in every county in New Jersey that are designed to assist anyone, employed or unemployed, with all phases of career development, job transition, and job search. They are available to assist people in small groups, orientation sessions, workshops, and one-on-one, with the following services: Conducting a job search; Upgrading your skills; Considering a new career; Applying for training; Resume writing assistance; Bi-lingual counselors; Free telephone, fax, computers, and copiers; Special services for veterans; Special services for workers with disabilities; Job Fairs; Interviewing workshops; On-site job interviews with local employers.

All One-Stop Career Centers have similar ser-vices and members may go to any One-Stop Career Center.

No appointment is needed. All the services are free. Begin your job transition at your local

One-Stop Career Center.

You may also call 877-872-5627.

A list of One-Stop Career Centers and their workshops can be found on pages 4 - 5.

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New Jersey Department of Labor and

Workforce Development Website http://lwd.state.nj.us/labor/index.html

For the computer savvy amongst us, the NJ LWD website is an invaluable resource. Click on “Workforce Development” on the left side of the homepage, then click on “Jobseekers” and a variety of options will appear. For more details on how to effectively navigate the NJ LWD website, see the UFCW NJ Unem-ployment Guide. If you have no access to a computer, go to your local One-Stop or public library.

Education and Training

Did you know … that if you are unemployed you may apply for a tuition waiver to attend a college course at no cost? … that there is training in basic skills, GED and other programs available at no cost through the local One-Stop Career Center? … that Workforce 55+ is a federally funded jobs program for eligible seniors 55 & over? TIPS 1. You do not need to be unemployed to use

the One-Stop Career Centers. You, your family, and your friends are all encouraged to visit a One-Stop, regardless of job status, to see how many opportunities are available.

2. Beware of scams. Only give personal infor-

mation to sources you can trust. 3. Consider going on an interview for a posi-

tion you may not really want. Since you have nothing to lose, you will not be as stressed and you will gain valuable experi-ence.

4. Remember, you are much more than your job title. Everyone has developed a variety of skills through life experience, parenting, extra curricular activities, etc. Attending a One Stop Career Center Resume Workshop will help you identify and describe these skills to develop a more effective resume. 5. To reduce job transition stress: Try exercise, like a daily walk with a family

member or friend. Watch your consumption of caffeine and alcohol. Do not withdraw - talk to family and friends. Seek medical or profes-sional assistance for persistent difficulty sleeping or conducting your normal routine.

6. Try volunteering. Helping others is a great boost for self-esteem. It is also an excellent way to make connections with caring and helpful people, and you may find a new career as a result. Jersey Cares lists a wide variety of volunteer opportunities on their website @ http://www.jerseycares.org/Program_Overview

7. Network! Tell everyone you know – the

neighbor, clergy, the dry cleaner, or Little League parents, that you are in job transition. 70-80% of jobs are still gained through net-working.

8. Change is never easy, but it also provides

new opportunities.

9. Please do not let any opportunity pass you by. All these programs and services are here to help you transition to a new job or ca-reer.

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NEW JERSEY ONE-STOP CAREER CENTERS - 2015

Atlantic County

2 South Main St. Pleasantville, NJ 08232

609 813-3900 Bergen County

60 State St, 2nd Floor Hackensack, NJ 07601-5427

201 329-9600 Burlington County

795 Woodlane Rd, Floor 2 Westampton, NJ 08060

609 518-3900 Camden County

2600 Mt. Ephraim Ave. Suite 102

Camden, NJ 08104-3290 856 614-3150

Cape May County 3810 New Jersey Avenue

Wildwood, NJ 08260 609 729-0997

Cumberland County 275 North Delsea Dr.

2nd Floor Vineland, NJ 08360-8067

856-696-6600 Essex County

50 S. Clinton St, 2nd Floor East Orange, NJ 07018-3120

973 395-3255 990 Broad St.

Newark, NJ 07102 973 648-3370

Gloucester County 215 Crown Point Rd. Suite 200

Thorofare, NJ 08086-0159 856 384-3700

Hudson County

530 48th Street Union City, NJ 07087

201 369-5205

438 Summit Ave. 1st Floor

Jersey City, NJ 07306 201 795-8800

Hunterdon County 6 Gaunt Place

(Lower Level) Flemington, NJ 08822

908 782-2371 Mercer County

26 Yard Ave. 1st Floor Station Plaza 4

Trenton, NJ 08625-0954 609 989-6523

Middlesex County 550 Jersey Avenue,

New Brunswick, NJ 08901 732 937-6200

161 New Brunswick Ave. 3rd floor, Suite 300

Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 732 293-5016

Monmouth County 145 Wycoff Rd, Suite 201 Ea-

tontown, NJ 07724 732 683-8850 ext 6011

60 Taylor Ave. Neptune, NJ 07753

732 775-1566

Morris County 13 Emery Avenue Randolph, NJ 07869

862 397-5600

30 Schuyler Place Morristown, NJ 07960 973 631-6321

Ocean County

1027 Hooper Ave. Bldg. 6 Toms River, NJ 08753

732 286-5616

1959 Route 9

Toms River, NJ 08755 732 286-6446

Passaic County 200 Memorial Drive

Paterson, NJ 07505-1606 973 742-9226

25 Howe Ave. Passaic, NJ 07055-4007

973 916-2648

Salem Count 174 E. Broadway, Floor 2

Salem, NJ 08079 856 935-7007

Somerset County 75 Veterans Memorial Dr.

Suite 102 Somerville, NJ 08876-2950 908 704-3000

Sussex County

9 Hampton House Road Newton, NJ 07860 973 383-2775

Union County

921 Elizabeth Avenue, Elizabeth, NJ 07201-2306 908 558-8000

908 965-3910

200 West Second St, 2nd Floor Plainfield, NJ 07060 908 412-7980

Warren County

75 South Main St. Phillipsburg, NJ 08865-2339 908 859-0400

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Career Beacon Job Search Readiness Workshops

Career Beacon workshops are available at all of the One Stop Career Centers.

To sign-up for one of these workshops, contact your local One-Stop.

Whether you are unemployed or underemployed, need to update your skills or are new to the job market, you can utilize the Career Beacon modules to fine-tune your job seeking skills at no cost to you. In the following Career Beacon groups, you will learn how and where to look for employ-ment; what to say/ask during an interview and how to effectively network: Self-Management Skills Workshop Using interactive exercises, focus on the skills and talents developed throughout your life and job history. You'll discover skills you didn't know you had! Learn how to confidently convince employ-ers how you can put your "transferable skills" to work for them. Labor Market Information Research Workshop Once you know what skills you have, learn how to find out which fields of work require your skills, and which organizations hire people with your skills. The most successful method of obtaining work is a planned, coordinated approach. Learn where to find valuable, free information that you can use to plan your career. Effective Job Search Workshop Technology has changed the rules of job hunting. The techniques you used to find your last job may be of little value now. Learn how to find job leads through networking, and the best, most cur-rent ways to use the Internet to speed your search for work. You'll also write a personal "one-minute commercial" that you can use to spotlight your unique job-related talents whenever you meet a person who might help you in your job search. Marketing Yourself & Resume Writing Workshop Your job application or resume is often an employer's first impression of you. It's your first opportu-nity to "sell" your skills and background to employers. Learn valuable tips on how to complete ap-plications and write resumes that stand apart from the crowd. Interactive exercises will help you develop a resume that highlights your individual skills, knowledge and abilities - a resume de-signed to elicit a call for an interview.

Interviewing Workshop Interviewing is your real opportunity to present yourself in a positive light to the potential employer. This is your chance to win a job! Learn the concepts and strategies of preparing for job interviews and you'll learn how to organize your thoughts, present yourself as a strong candidate, soften negative events in your work history, and answer difficult questions. This important workshop pre-pares you to interview with confidence and increase your chances of getting the job.

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File using the Internet – www.njuifile.net If you do not wish to file your claim via the Internet, you may file by telephoning your *Reemployment Call Center.

Northeast New Jersey – 201 601-4100 Northwest & Central New Jersey – 732 761-2020

South Jersey – 856 507-2340 Out-of-State – 888 795-6672

There are never charges to file an Unemployment Insurance claim in any state or territory. Please be aware that there are private websites that charge fees to provide information on New Jersey's Unemployment Insurance Benefits Program or try to offer assistance with filing an Unemployment Insurance claim. You may file your new unemployment claim, or reopen an existing claim via the Internet if all of your work was in New Jersey in the past 18 months.

You are encouraged to apply online at www.njuifile.net. If you are unable or don’t want to file via the Internet, file by contacting your *Reemployment Call Center (listed above.) To file your claim, please have the following available: Pencil/pen and paper. Your Social Security Number. Alien Registration Documentation (if you are not a U.S. citizen). Your bank information if you wish to have your benefits direct deposited. Employer information on all employer(s) in the last 18 months including name, address, tele-

phone number, beginning and end dates of employment, and reason for separation. A New Jersey driver's license or Non-Driver Photo ID Card. This is not a requirement for filing a

claim, but can help to expedite processing.

Please be advised: 1. If your computer is idle for 30 minutes or more, your session will be “timed out” and your entire

claim information will be lost. 2. If you exit for any reason before completing the application, all of your information will be lost. 3. The information you submit is confidential. 4. The online application uses a secure connection to encrypt the data you submit.

Frequently Asked Questions Q. Can I claim back weeks if I did not immediately file a claim when I became unemployed? A. To be eligible for benefits, you must file a claim. Usually, the claim will be backdated no further than the Sunday of the week you filed. However, there are some circumstances that allow for the backdating of your claim (Examples: you were working reduced hours with your employer; you at-tempted to file a claim against another state). If you believe your claim should be backdated, men-tion it to the agent when you file your claim by telephone. If you file your claim via the Internet, you may request your claim be backdated by calling your *Reemployment Call Centers (listed at top of this page).

NJ STATE UNEMPLOYMENT

INFORMATION

2015

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Q. I am going to be laid off next week; can I file my unemployment claim now so my claim is ready? A. No. If you are employed full-time, you cannot file an unemployment claim. Claims filed before separation from employment are not valid because you are considered to be "Employed Full-time." You cannot file an unemployment claim until you become unemployed or partially unemployed. Q. Does my Pension or Social Security affect my claim? A. Social Security Retirement benefits do not affect your unemployment benefits. If you are eligible to receive a pension from an employer that is included on your unemployment claim, the benefits may be reduced. The term "pension" includes benefits paid in a lump sum, such as 401K, as well as pensions that are paid on a monthly basis. If you have applied, received or expect to receive a pen-sion, a claims examiner appointment will be scheduled to discuss the pension. If you contributed the entire cost of your pension, your unemployment benefits will not be reduced. If you and your em-ployer contributed to the pension, 50% of your weekly pension amount will be subtracted from your unemployment benefits. If your employer contributed the entire cost of your pension, your unemploy-ment benefits will be reduced by 100% of your weekly pension amount. Q. Should I wait until my severance pay ends to file a claim? A. No, because some severance/separation payments do not extend employment. You should file your claim after you stop working full-time. Payments that do not extend employment include sever-ance payments based on years of service with an employer. However, salary continuation through termination and payments in Lieu of Notice, do extend employment. When you file your claim by telephone, the agent will review all separation payments with you before the claim filing process is completed. If you file your claim via the Internet, and it appears that your payment for periods after your last date of work may affect your unemployment benefits, you will be scheduled for an interview with a claims examiner. Q. How long does it take after I claim my benefits by using the telephone or the Internet to re-ceive a check? A. If you are entitled to a benefit check, it will be mailed out the next business day after you claim your benefits by using the telephone or the Internet.

Making Effective Use of the NJ Department of Labor & Workforce Development (NJ LWD) Website

http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/

It is recommended that you review this website in its entirety, as it is very user friendly and compre-hensive. Some of the most important information on the website is listed below: Job Seeker information – Employment Opportunities, Career Development and Skills Assessment, Explore Occupations, Job Fairs, Job Search Support Services. Or go to http://jobs4jersey.com/ Resume Creation, Editing, and Posting - Jobs4Jersey.com’s OnRamp allows job seekers to up-load, edit and post resumes and receive email alerts of new jobs matching their skills and experi-ence. Or go to http://jobs4jersey.com/ Adult Basic Education, GED Prep, One Stop Career Centers Skill Enhancement, Educational Opportunities, Workshops and other Free and Personalized Ser-vices provided by County One Stop Career Centers.

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Vocational Rehabilitation (DVRS) - Services enabling individuals with disabilities, both longstand-ing and recent, to find jobs or keep their existing jobs. Or go to http://jobs4jersey.com/jobs4jersey/jobseekers/disable/index.html Unemployment Insurance - Filing or Reopening a Claim, etc. Or go to http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/ui/ui_index.html

Unemployment Insurance (UI) Blue Book – Eligibility, Filing Process, Calculating your Benefit Rate, etc.

Or go to http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/labor/fli/fliindex.html Partial Unemployment Benefits - Part-time work eligibility & rates.

Or go to http://lwd.state.nj.us/labor/ui/claim/ptwages.html O*NET - National Job Description Database http://online.onetcenter.org/ Another useful tool is O*NET, the national job description database that lists most jobs and job ti-tles, the skills, abilities, education and training required to do the jobs, and other jobs that require similar skills: Identify your skills by entering your current and past job titles, which will bring up current and past

job descriptions; Use your skills list to develop effective resumes targeted to specific jobs; Focus your job search by identifying related occupations requiring your skill set; Identify any training/skills needed to do related occupations.

HELPFUL RESOURCES

www.njhelps.com NJ HELPS is provided by the NJ Department of Human Services. This web site is a one-stop shop-ping resource for 28 state and federal programs. Determine your eligibility for housing, employment, child care, health insurance, prescriptions, pay for food, and more at this useful site.

877-872-5627 (877 US2-JOBS) America’s Workforce Network Toll-Free Help Line

Offers fast, easy, free information by trained professionals who can refer you to federal, state and local services.

DIAL 2-1-1 (or 877 652-1148) NJ’s 24/7 hotline to many of the various governmental, community, and non-profit services and re-sources available to you and your family. All calls are confidential.

800-328-3838 – NJ Family Health Line (Immunizations, Clinics, etc.)

800-701-0710 – NJ FamilyCare (Affordable Healthcare for Uninsured Children)

800-322-8092 – NJ Women’s Referral Center

(County Social Services, Displaced Homemakers, Housing, Violence, Child Care, etc.)

Information Source: NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development

877 496-4951 - NJ Homekeeper Program http://www.njhomekeeper.com/spv-55.aspx

Funded through a Federal grant from the US Treasury’s Hardest Hit Fund, NJ Homekeeper offers help to New Jersey home-owners who may be facing foreclosure as a direct result of unemployment or underemployment.

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The following is a list of health care information, resources and advocacy programs that may be use-ful to you and your family. This list is comprehensive but not all inclusive, and should be viewed as a guide. MAP Disclaimer The health-related resources provided below are for informational purposes only and should never be used to self-diagnose or treat health or medical conditions. Please contact a licensed health care provider for diagnosis and treatment of any health or medical condition. Health Insurance: Private, Public, Disabled, Seniors NJ Department of Banking & Insurance Individual Health Coverage (IHC) Program 800 446-7467 IHC was created to ensure that people without access to employer or government sponsored health care programs could purchase health coverage for themselves/their families from a variety of private carriers. http://www.state.nj.us/dobi/division_insurance/ihcseh/ihcguide/index.html NJ Family Care - 800 701-0710 http://www.njfamilycare.org/use_benefts.aspx Is a federal and state funded health insurance program created to help New Jersey's uninsured children and certain low-income parents and guardians to obtain affordable health coverage.

County Programs and Program Elements

Prescription Drug Discounts; Wellness Discounts on Hearing Aids & Exams, Dental Care, Dia-betic Supplies, Contact Lenses, Pet Meds, Eye Exams/Glasses, Lasik Eye Surgery. Use with in-surance, as a supplement, or by Medicare participants in the donut hole. No eligibility require-ments.

Atlantic.......877 321-2652 http://www.rxprintacard.biz/naco/ (Enter zipcode) Bergen........201 336-7400 www.co.bergen.nj.us/wellnessdiscount Burlington..877 321-6755

http://freedrugcard.us/county/burlington-county-nj-discount-drug-card.html Cape May....877 321-6755 http://www.capemaycountygov.net/cit-e-access/webpage.cfm?TID=5&TPID=10434 Cumberland.877 776-2285 http://www.co.cumberland.nj.us/content/159/9702.aspx Essex .........877 321-6755 http://www.essex-countynj.org/wellness2012.pdf Newark......800 931-8872 http://www.coast2coastrx.com/cities/nj/newark/ No wellness Gloucester..800 808-1213 http://www.co.gloucester.nj.us/depts/h/hedss/healiv/wellnessdis.asp Hudson......877 776-2285 https://secure.proactrx.com/ Mercer........877 776-2285 www.nj.gov/counties/mercer/wellnessdiscount Monmouth 732 431-7450 http://www.visitmonmouth.com/page.aspx?ID=3553 Ocean.......877 321-6755 http://freedrugcard.us/county/ocean-county-nj-discount-drug-card.html No wellness Passaic..... 877 321-6755 https://secure.proactrx.com/ Salem…….877 321-6755 https://secure.proactrx.com/ Sussex…...877 321-6755 https://secure.proactrx.com/ Union.........877 321-6755 https://secure.proactrx.com/

Health Care Resources

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Health Care Resources (cont)

Prescription Drug Discount Programs & Cards with no membership fees National Programs

Partnership for Prescription Assistance 888 477-2669 www.pparx.org Pfizer 866 706-2400 www.PfizerHelpfulAnswers.com Familywize Prescription Drug Discount Card 866 810-3784 www.familywize.org

Charity Care - NJ Hospital Care Payment Assistance Program for uninsured or underinsured. Infor-mation, Eligibility Criteria & How to Apply: http://www.nj.gov/health/charitycare/index.shtml or Call 866 588-5696 - Health Care for the Uninsured Program during business hours. NJ Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund – 800 335-3863 (FUND) Financial assistance program for New Jersey families whose children have an illness or condition otherwise uncovered by insurance, State or Federal programs, or other sources, like fundraising. The Fund is intended to assist in preserving a family's ability to cope with the financial responsibili-ties which accompany a child's significant health problems. http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/cicrf/home/ Family Health Line – 800 328-3838 Hotline operated by trained counselors 24/7 that provides infor-mation & referrals for health screening & treatment. NJ County and Municipal Health Departments 609 292-4993 Contact your county or municipal health department for information on low-cost or free health screenings, vaccinations, sliding fee clinics, etc. Directory of Local Health Departments http://www.nj.gov/health/lh/documents/lhdirectory.pdf NJ Federally Qualified Health Centers for Primary Care http://www.njpca.org/FQHC/default.aspx Federally Funded Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) care for you, even if you have no health insur-ance. Payment based on income. Click on the “FQHC Directory” on the left side of the homepage, then click on your county for the center nearest you. Dental Services NJ Dental Clinic Directory http://www.state.nj.us/health/fhs/oral/documents/dental_directory.pdf Public dental clinic services in New Jersey, provided primarily by local health departments, hospitals and Federally Qualified Health Centers. Dental Lifeline Network 732 821-3056 Charitable affiliate of the American Dental Association, pro-vides comprehensive dental care for senior citizens & persons with developmental & permanent dis-abilities. Medicaid & Medicare NJ Department of Health & Senior Services - Medicaid Hotline 800 356-1561 Provides health insurance to low-income and resource-eligible Parents, Caretakers, Dependent Chil-dren, Pregnant Women, and People who are Aged, Blind or Disabled. http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dmahs/clients/medicaid/ Click on appropriate category for eligibility & application information.

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Healthcare Resources (cont) Medicare Call 800 633-4227 (800-MEDICARE) Medicare.Gov is the official US Government site. http://www.medicare.gov/CallCenter.asp NJ State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) 800 792-8820 SHIP provides free help to New Jersey Medicare beneficiaries who have problems with or questions about their health insurance. SHIP is a statewide program sponsored by the New Jersey Depart-ment of Health and Senior Services. To locate local SHIP offices: http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/doas/home/sashipsite.html

PAAD & Senior Gold & Medicare Part D Toll Free Hotline 800 792-9745 NJ Pharmaceutical Assistance (PAAD) & Senior Gold programs provide State-funded prescription assistance for aged or disabled income eligible New Jersey residents. http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/doas/home/pbp.html Chronic Illness Associations Alzheimer’s National Alzheimer’s Association - 24/7 Hotline 800 272-3900 http://www.alz.org/index.asp Professional staff, care consultation, community & professional education & training programs, sup-port groups, respite care, collaborating with research centers & advocating for Alzheimer's sufferers. Alzheimer’s Association NJ - 24/7 Hotline 800 272-3900 http:www.alz.org/nj/ Cancer American Cancer Society - 800 227-2345 http://www.cancer.org/ Information & Referral, Treatment Options, Coping Techniques, Medicines, etc. Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey - 732 235-2465 http://www.cinj.org/ A National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center delivering Care, Research, Education & Outreach. NJ Dept of Health & Senior Services Cancer Education & Early Screening- 800 328-3838 Provides comprehensive screening services for Breast, Cervical, Prostate & Colorectal Cancer for income eligible persons. Screening locations http://web.doh.state.nj.us/apps2/cancerfacilities/njceed.aspx National Cancer Institute - National Institutes of Health (NIH) 800 422-6237 (800-4-CANCER) http://www.cancer.gov/ Comprehensive Cancer Information Diabetes American Diabetes Association – 800 342-2383 (800-DIABETES) http://www.diabetes.org/ Their mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by dia-betes. They fund research to prevent, cure and manage diabetes; deliver services to hundreds of communities; provide objective and credible information; advocate for diabetes sufferer’s rights. Heart/Cardiovascular Disease & Stroke American Heart Association 800 242-8721 (800 AHA-USA1) Here you will find a wealth of information to help you understand and manage your health.

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Healthcare Resources (cont) American Stroke Association - 888 478-7653 (888-4-STROKE) partner organization that is dedi-cated to prevention, diagnosis & treatment to save lives from stroke. National Stroke Association – 800 787-6537(800-STROKES) http://www.stroke.org Develops education programs focused on Prevention, Treatment, Rehabilitation and Support for all impacted by stroke. Free newsletter available. Heart, Lung & Blood National Heart, Lung & Blood Institute - US Dept Health/Human Services - 301 592-8573 Email nhlbiinfo@nhlbi.nih.gov Website http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/dci/Browse/Lung.html Provides science-based, plain-language information about heart, lung, blood, & sleep topics. The website contains articles on Diseases, Conditions, Tests, Procedures & other relevant topics to print or e-mail. Parkinson’s American Parkinson’s Disease Assoc. Inc. 800 223-2732 http://www.apdaparkinson.org/ Information, Research, Patient Support, Raising Public Awareness & Education. Parkinson's Disease Information and Referral Center @ Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital 732 745-7520 http://www.rwjuh.edu/medical_services/parkinsons_center.html Information, Resources, Current Research, Support Groups, Exercise Programs, etc., in your area. Services are available for those with Parkinson’s disease as well as their caregivers.

NJ One-Stop-Shopping Numbers & Resource Guides

Call 2-1-1, a 24-hour-7-day-a-week statewide helpline, to speak with a trained and confidential resource specialist with access to various governmental, private and non-profit human services. You need NOT know what service you are looking for. Just tell the specialist your concerns and they will locate appropriate resources. If 2-1-1 does not work, Call 877 652-1148 (both are toll free). You may also go to the 2-1-1 Resource Guide www.nj211.org http://www.njhelps.org/ is a one stop resource for the wide range of programs provided by the NJ Department of Human Services and its partners. You can also self screen for eligibility for 28 State and Federal programs including Housing, Employment, Child Care, Health Insurance, Prescriptions, Food Stamps & more.

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NJ Energy Assistance Programs

Fall 2015

MAP Tip – Carefully review all the material included in your energy providers bills (electric, heating & cooling). If you are having trouble paying your bills, first look for information that addresses pay-ment options & payment assistance. Providers may also offer free services, home energy audits & rebates for energy efficient appliances, light bulbs, thermostats & weatherization. STRUGGLING TO PAY YOUR ENERGY BILLS? HELP IS AVAILABLE! Whether you are on a limited income or experiencing unanticipated financial hardship, there are programs available to help qualified households better manage their energy bills. Community Action Program (CAP) agencies are state designated agencies that implement

energy assistance programs throughout New Jersey. For local CAP agencies call 2-1-1, the statewide helpline, or go to http://www.state.nj.us/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/caalist.html

ENERGY ASSISTANCE INCOME LIMITS

*(Page income limits for 2015-2016 may not be finalized until October)

Family NJ Shares LIHEAP/WAP USF Comfort Partners PAGE* Size Yearly Monthly Monthly Yearly Yearly (2015-2016) (2015-2016) (2015-2016) (2015-2016) (2014-2015) 1 $47,080 $1,961 $1,715 $26,483 $54,858 2 $63,720 $2,655 $2,322 $35,843 $71,738 3 $80,360 $3,348 $2,930 $45,203 $88,617 4 $97,000 $4,041 $3,535 $54,563 $105,497 5 $113,640 $4,735 $4,142 $63,923 $122,377 6 $130,280 $5,428 $4,750 $73,283 $139,255 7 $146,920 $6,121 $5,355 $82,634 $142,872 New Jersey Lifeline Credit Program (Lifeline) http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/doas/home/lifelinedetail.html Lifeline is a utility assistance program for income-eligible seniors administered by the New Jersey Dept. of Health & Senior Services, which provides an annual credit of $112.50, respectively, on only natural gas & electricity bills. The credit is applied directly to the utility account. The benefit is also available to customers with electric & natural gas costs included in their rent. Enrollment date: Year round Who is eligible? Seniors who are at least 65 years old and meet the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and the Disabled (PAAD) criteria, and adults 18 years of age and older who receive Social Security Disabil-ity, can also apply. Only one member per household is eligible. How to apply? Download application at http://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/doas/forms/ap-2.pdf or Call 800 792-9745 (then press”0”) or call 800 221-0051 to speak with a NJNG customer service representative or visit your local CAP Agency, where applications are accepted & processed. If you currently receive Social Security Income, your Lifeline credit is automatically included in your monthly check.

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New Jersey Energy Assistance Programs (cont)

USF, LIHEAP and WAP

http://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/energy.html

How to Apply: The three programs listed below all use the same application, which is accepted and processed by your local CAP agency. For persons age 60 or over, or who are disabled, applications may be han-dled by mail. To download application http://www.state.nj.us/dca/divisions/dhcr/forms/docs/heaappl.pdf or call 800 510-3102 or visit your local CAP agency. Who is Eligible: See Page 2 for Income Eligibility Universal Service Fund (USF) USF is administered by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. It is designed to help make energy bills more affordable for income-eligible households, providing cred-its on monthly natural gas and/or electric bills. Enrollment Date: Year-round While households may apply for USF at any time, customers are encouraged to submit a joint USF/LIHEAP application during the LIHEAP enrollment period (October 1 thru April 30). Eligibility for USF is based on total household income and the amount of money a family or individual typically pays for natural gas and electric bills. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps income-eligible households pay for heating costs and medically necessary cooling costs. If heat is included in your rent, you may still qualify. Be-cause LIHEAP provides support on a first-come, first-served basis it is important to apply as early as possible. Enrollment Date: October 1 through April 30 Weatherization Assistance Programs (WAP) Provides a home energy audit to see how much money you can save on energy bills by weatheriz-ing. It also provides installation of energy efficient measures which may include air sealing, insula-tion, heating system repair and/or replacement of refrigerators and heating systems if necessary.

Gift of Warmth (GOW) http://www.utilitybillassistance.com/html/new_jersey_natural_gas_bill_as.html The Gift of Warmth fund helps income-eligible households and customers of New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) experiencing temporary or unanticipated financial hardship, pay their natural gas bills. Established by NJNG, this program is administered by the United Way through local CAP Agencies. Enrollment date: Year round. Who is eligible? Income-eligible households & customers of NJNG experiencing temporary or unanticipated financial hardship. How to apply? Applications are accepted at/processed by your local CAP Agency. To apply call 800 221-0051 and speak with a NJNG customer service representative.

NJ Citizen Action Oil Group 800 464-8465 uses bulk purchasing power to negotiate discount prices for their members and is available to all NJ residents who heat with oil. NO INCOME ELIGIBILITY. Annual membership fee ranges from $ 0 - $30. View the brochure at http://njcaoilgroup.com/brochure.pdf

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Energy Assistance Programs (cont)

New Jersey Comfort Partners Comfort Partners is sponsored by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and administered by natural gas and electric utilities throughout the state. The FREE program offers energy saving and energy education for limited-income customers. And it provides qualified customers with FREE home weatherization and energy-efficient im-provements, on a home-specific basis, to help lower energy bills. Enrollment date: Year round Who is eligible? See Chart on page 2 for Income Eligibility The program is available to households with significant energy use who meet income guidelines. Households that receive USF, Lifeline or PAAD are eligible. Applicants must be a customer of record with a metered utility. How to apply? Call 888 773-8326 or call your energy provider. For additional information on New Jersey’s Clean Energy Program call Customer Service at 866 657-6278 or go to www.njcleanenergy.com and click on “Residential”. Payment Assistance for Gas & Electric (PAGE) The AHA administers PAGE, an ANNUAL assistance program funded by the Board of Public Utilities that is designed to help moderate income NJ households experiencing economic hard-ship and struggling to pay their electric and natural gas bills. Enrollment Date: Year-round; Funds are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Who is eligible? See chart on page 2 for Income Eligibility Customers may qualify for a PAGE Grant if they meet household income and size criteria, are ineligible to receive LIHEAP or USF, have current utility service with a documented notice of a past due bill (minimum 45 days past due) and have made at least two (2) $25 payments in the last 6 months or one good faith payment of $100 to each utility in the past 90 days. (These pay-ments must be made 30 days before submitting the application.) How to apply? Applications are accepted at and processed by the AHA Agencies. For Page Eligibility, an AHA Agency List and to Apply, call 855 465-8783 or go online at http://www.njpoweron.org/page-application.html New Jersey (NJ) SHARES NJ SHARES is a statewide fund that provides assistance to fixed- to moderate-income households faced with unique financial hardships that require temporary help to pay their energy, telephone and water bills. Benefits are provided as a one-time payment. Enrollment date: Year round; Funding is limited Who is eligible? See chart on page 2 for Income Eligibility (Seniors, the Disabled or those on Social Security Disability may have more generous in-come limits. Contact your local CAP agency for more information.) Applicants must meet NJ Shares eligibility guidelines http://njshares.org/aboutNJShares/energy-assistance.asp , must be ineligible for LIHEAP or USF benefits, must demonstrate a temporary financial need & have a current history of good faith payments ($100 or more within 90 days of applying for NJ Shares) with their utility company. Grants must result in continuance and/or restoration of service. How to apply? Applications are accepted & processed by your local CAP agency and other agencies. To get an application, call 866-NJSHARES (866-657-4273) or visit a participating *CAP agency or a NJ Shares intake agency online at http://njshares.org/whereToApply/index.asp