Ocean County officials have announced the allocation of $432,500 in federal funding to bolster a variety of programs aimed at supporting the county's senior population. The funds, sourced from unused American Rescue Plan dollars will address critical needs such as transportation, home repairs, legal services, and medical alert systems.
County Commissioner Director Barbara Jo Crea emphasized the importance of tailoring these funds to the services seniors require most. In addition to practical assistance, a significant portion of the funds will be directed toward combating isolation and depression among seniors through socialization and recreational programs.
“We directed a large portion of the additional funds to the priorities identified and also provided more funds for socialization and recreational programs to get seniors out and about again,” Crea said. “Since Covid, depression and isolation continue to be a problem with seniors, and to combat it, we have directed additional dollars for socialization and recreation programs.”
By engaging seniors socially, these initiatives aim to improve both their mental and physical well-being. The funding also addresses a growing demand for medical alert systems, which are covered under Caregiver Support dollars, enabling seniors to remain safe and independent in their homes.
Expanding Services for a Growing Population
Ocean County is home to one of the largest senior populations in the United States, with over 220,000 residents aged 60 and older. According to Crea, the Office of Senior Services has already assisted nearly 10,000 clients in 2024, providing 14,413 units of service across the county. These services range from meal delivery to recreation programs that promote active lifestyles.
The new funding will allow the county to expand its contracts with service providers, ensuring more seniors can access the support they need. “The funding that allowed us to increase these contracts and, in turn, help more of our seniors comes from other counties that did not use all of the American Rescue Plan funds distributed by the federal government,” Crea explained.
Supporting Independence and Quality of Life
Ocean County's Board of Commissioners recognizes the importance of these programs in helping seniors maintain independence and a high quality of life. Many of the county’s seniors rely solely on Social Security, making access to affordable services essential.
“As a Board, we know it’s imperative we provide the funding needed for programs that help a high percentage of this population, who may be living solely on Social Security, to remain independent, with a secure roof over their heads, food on their table, the ability to access services, and tap into recreational opportunities,” Crea added.
Benefiting Key Service Providers
The funding will support nine different organizations, including Community Services Inc. of Ocean County, which serves as the county’s main provider of home-delivered meals and nutrition services. Other beneficiaries include Brick Township, Lakewood Community Services Corp., Community Medical Center, and Point Pleasant.
By investing in these programs and services, Ocean County continues to demonstrate its commitment to meeting the needs of its growing senior population, ensuring they can live with dignity, safety, and engagement in their communities.
