Pallone Joins Official Opening of United Way’s Financial Opportunity Center in Perth Amboy

May 29, 2024 
Pallone Secured Federal Funding to Make Center Possible
Perth Amboy, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today joined local leaders for the official opening of the United Way of Central Jersey’s (UWCJ) Financial Opportunity Center (FOC) in Perth Amboy. Pallone secured $425,000 in federal funding to make the center possible. The new center is based on a proven model that will provide an integrated set of services for families in need, including individualized employment services, financial education and coaching, and assistance applying for federal support like housing and nutrition assistance.

The FOC will also provide free tax preparation through UWCJ’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Other assistance like an on-site computer lab, a reading corner for young children who visit the FOC with their parents, and a career closet for clients who need business attire for interviews will be provided as well. This support is essential for low-income families who may need help as they recover from financial hardship.
Quotes
“I'm proud to join United Way of Central Jersey today to announce a new center to help families who need employment and financial assistance in our region. The United Way of Central Jersey Financial Opportunity Center will offer a range of critical services to families who need help getting back on their feet,” said Pallone. “We must make sure that every family has the resources they need. I'm grateful for everyone who is here today and would like to give a special thanks to the United Way of Central Jersey for its dedication to our community.”

“The opening of the United Way Financial Opportunity Center is a significant milestone for Perth Amboy. Thanks to Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. for securing the federal funding, our residents, particularly unemployed and underemployed parents of young children, now have access to a range of valuable services,” said Mayor Helmin Caba. “Whether you need help finding a job, advice on managing your finances, or assistance with federal programs, this center is here for them. We are excited to see how these resources will improve the financial stability of our families and enhance the quality of life in our city. Thank you to the United Way of Central Jersey for their dedication and continued advocacy for our families. Their efforts have made a real difference in bringing this center to life for our city.”

“We look forward to providing high-quality, wealth-building coaching and resources for Perth Amboy families, with a priority of helping families with the greatest need,” said Gloria Aftanski, President and Chief Professional Officer of UWCJ. “This initiative complements UWCJ’s Middlesex County Alliance for Child and Family Success, which offers case management, including housing resources, immigration assistance, and child care resources for under-resourced families with young children ages 0-5. We thank Congressman Pallone for his steadfast leadership in making this center possible and being here to celebrate its opening today.”

People seeking FOC services can call (201)604-1366 or email [email protected]., and an FOC coach will conduct a confidential intake and provide a comprehensive list of services based on their unique situation. Then, the coaches will provide counseling and connect clients to services, including ESL and citizenship classes, job training and career development courses. All FOC staff are bilingual and bicultural.

For a copy of the release, click here.
For more information about FOC services, visit www.uwcj.org/ffoc.