The New Jersey SHARES program.

The state of New Jersey and the utility and gas companies located in the state offer the NJ SHARES program. The energy assistance program provides cash grants and funds  to families and individuals that are not eligible for other types of government assistance, such as the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Universal Service Fund.

The program was initially created to offer aid to people who are experiencing a short term crisis, as New Jersey and the energy companies that operate in the state know that a financial crisis can happen to anyone. Many of them are due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the nation’s current economic crisis, a job loss or medical emergency. The New Jersey SHARES options provides relief to people who are not otherwise eligible for other types of government assistance plans. It annually helps thousands of households who do not qualify for other federal or state government programs, and whose total household income does not exceed 400 percent of the federal poverty level. In addition, New Jersey SHARES funds and grants are distributed to families year-round based on funding availability.

More good news is that the State of New Jersey continues to increase funding for the program. Earlier this year they released an additional $10 million in funding to allow the non-profit NJ SHARES to greatly expand the number of residents who can receive the grants and temporary assistance. In addition to the income requirements in place, applicants need to also prove that they have a temporary financial need, and the applicant must have a good record of having paid their utility bills in the past prior to their recent crisis. The funds and grants that are part of SHARES are administered through a statewide network of community-based social service agencies. One way to apply is to contact your local community action agency, or you can dial (1-866-657-4273) to learn more.

Upon approval for the NJ SHARES program, recipients may receive a one-time cash grant of up to $700 for paying their gas bills. They can also receive up to $300 for electricity, or a maximum of $700 for an all-electric home.

In addition to helping with utility and heating bills, the non-profit organization that is the New Jersey Statewide Heating Assistance and Referral for Energy Services (New Jersey SHARES) also administers Verizon NJ's Communications Lifeline and Link Up America programs. Last, but not least, New Jersey SHARES also provides assistance to United Water customers with their water bills. So people can get funds for both their phone and water bills.