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Applications are accepted through an extensive network of 148 intake agencies at 199 local sites throughout the state. Eligibility is based on a demonstrated financial crisis and a history of good-faith utility bill payments, providing relief to those who otherwise would have no means of assistance. Upon approval, an individual or household can receive a one-time grant for natural gas (up to $700) and electricity (up to $300) for a maximum of $1,000 (or a $700 maximum grant for an all-electric home), applied directly to the utility bill. NJ SHARES helps our neighbors get back on their feet. In 2003, NJ SHARES clients had an average of 92 percent of their utility bills paid just three months following receipt of the grant (2003 Study-APPRISE, Inc.) New Jersey's utility customers are an important funding source for NJ SHARES, making it a fund in which "neighbors help neighbors." Customer contributions raised through utility bill inserts are matched by the participating utility. NJ SHARES also receives funding through the Unclaimed Utility Deposits Trust Fund (escheats), and through ongoing fundraising activities such as partnering with minor-league baseball teams and member utility toy truck sales. In October 2003, NJ SHARES joined thousands of charitable organizations on iGive.com, the first online charity shopping mall. Through iGive.com, our neighbors can shop online at hundreds of merchants and, at the same time, support NJ SHARES at no extra cost. |
New Jersey SHARES |