After serving nearly four decades in prison, Mr. M stepped back into a world that had changed completely. He had never used a smartphone and computers were beyond recognition. Reentry was daunting but he was determined to rebuild his life – however, with no identification or important documents, limited digital literacy and no local support system, the challenges ahead felt overwhelming. That changed when a friend told him about VOADV’s Camden Navigational Resource Center. “He said, ‘Go over there. If they can’t help you, they’ll help you get to someone who can,’” said Mr. M. “And that’s exactly what they…

Read HERE. Camden County commissioners have approved construction of a $3.1-million facility to address homelessness in Camden. The Multi-Agency Center for the Homeless is intended to consolidate county services in an area with a sizable population of homeless people. This 8,125-square-foot building is to rise off South Broadway and Liberty Street, flanking a tattoo parlor at the intersection. The vacant land currently has a homeless encampment, according to plans for the county project.Waterfront South: Revival planned for South Broadway landmark “In its purest form, this will be an outreach center to prevent and combat homelessness,” county spokesman Dan Keashen said, noting that…

Read HERE. MERCER COUNTY, NJ — The Mercer County Library System’s partnership with Arm In Arm’s mobile food pantry will continue into August to provide assistance to Mercer County residents facing food insecurity. On Mondays 4, 11, 18 and 25, the mobile food pantry will be at the Lawrence Headquarters Branch, 2751 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. “It is so important that we bring services into our communities to meet our residents where they are,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson, who in November 2024 established the Mercer County Office of Food Security. “The collaboration between the Mercer County Library…

Read HERE. MIDDLE TOWNSHIP — Cuts to state funding could decimate Volunteers of America programs in New Jersey, including some in Atlantic and Cape May counties. A state budget proposal is set to cut millions of dollars that help fund the organization’s work, including a planned $7.4 million cut to funding for the Safe Return program, part of a $243 million reduction in the Department of Community Affairs’ $1.86 billion budget, according to a DCA budget analysis released in April. That’s in addition to a $3.8 million reduction in state funding for the Navigator program through the state Department of…

Estelle Haskins didn’t set out to work in social services. But when the pandemic closed the daycare she was previously working at, an opportunity presented itself in a familiar place just three minutes from where she lives in Somerville: Agape House, one of VOADV’s three family shelters. “My mom used to work here years and years ago,” Ms. Haskins says. “I’ve lived around here for a long time, and I’ve always wanted to help out at Agape House.” Ms. Haskins joined VOADV in May 2021 as a Program Assistant and quickly began making a difference. We shared the story of…

For over six years, Celeste Robinson has been a cornerstone at our shelter for men, the Aletha R. Wright “Vision of Hope” Center (ARWC), bringing enthusiasm, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her role as Administrative Assistant. Originally starting out at ARWC as a Program Assistant, she quickly stepped into her current role, where she wears many hats to ensure the facility runs smoothly. Ms. Robinson’s path into social services wasn’t one she planned—but rather one she embraced. After years in retail and a role at the Center for Family Services, she heard about a position at Volunteers of America…

(GLASSBORO, NJ) – Volunteers of America Delaware Valley (VOADV) hosted the 4th Annual Human Trafficking Summit: Building a Collaborative Response for Large-Scale Events on March 19, 2024 in the Rowan University (Glassboro) Business Hall. The event featured a keynote address from Senator John J. Burzichelli and a panel discussion with subject matter experts from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), the New Jersey State Police, Volunteers of America Delaware Valley, and the New York City Police Department. Conversations were focused around ensuring that our state is as prepared as possible to manage the risks and realities of…

In celebration of National Women’s History Month, we’re highlighting the women at VOADV who lead with purpose and passion. Their vision, courage and strength shape our organization and communities, and we are proud to share their stories of empowerment and leadership.

(COLLINGSWOOD, NJ) – Volunteers of America Delaware Valley (VOADV) hosted on March 4, 2025 the first annual Mardi Bras + Briefs event at Double Nickel Brewing Company, bringing the community together for a night of Fat Tuesday fun with a purpose. The event collected over 1,000 pairs of new, in-package underwear – the most requested essential for VOADV clients in need.   “We are so grateful to everyone who donated and came out to support Mardi Bras + Briefs,” said Daniel L. Lombardo, VOADV President and CEO. “Underwear is the number one need for clients who turn to us for…