Residents of Union County, NJ who meet eligibility criteria, can receive a myriad of emergency services such as - direct emergency assistance, long-term and short-term rental assistance, home repair, and case management.   The unit accomplishes this goal through the provision of services in six areas: Eligible participants receive food vouchers, financial assistance toward utility bills to prevent shut-offs, and emergency rental assistance to prevent homelessness. Eligible participants are assisted with a portion of rental expenses as long as assistance is needed or program funding is available. Income eligible residents of Union County, NJ receive a detailed energy audit using the latest diagnostic equipment. Repairs include stairs, railings, lighting fixtures, security devices, window repair/replacement, door repair/replacement, insulation, caulking, and heat system repair/replacement. Client assessments are conducted and appropriate services are provided through the agency. If assistance cannot be provided in-house, the caseworker cycles through PROCEED's extensive collaborative network and provides the client with referrals. Eligible participants receive assistance to defray the costs of heating. In addition to the initial direct state payment, clients are eligible to receive emergency assistance payments for oil deliveries and utility shut off prevention. The program is designed to provide a culturally sensitive environment for senior citizens to gather. While at functions, participants establish relationships and receive information regarding entitlements and other services. All presentations are provided by bilingual presenters or through an interpreter. The program serves over 80 individuals annually. These services are presently available only to residents of Union County, New Jersey. For eligibility criteria, contact the Community Development Unit at (908) 351-7727 or e-mail us at info@proceedinc.com.   Funding provided by: City of Elizabeth, Union County Department of Human Services, NJ Department of Community Affairs and the NJ Department of Human Services