Monmouth ACTS in Action: County Partnership Empowers Residents Toward Financial Stability

As a single mom, Carlie spent most of her daughter’s life in survival mode – constantly worrying about making ends meet and what the future might hold.

Her experience reflects the broader reality for many Monmouth County residents. Confusion around resources, services or financial education often prevents families from achieving long-term stability and reaching their full potential.

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That’s where Monmouth ACTS comes in.

Monmouth ACTS, an innovative public-private partnership, brings together County divisions within the Department of Health and Human Services and local community organizations to improve access to critical support services. Through this collaborative approach, Monmouth County partnered with the Affordable Housing Alliance (AHA) – a nonprofit dedicated to improving quality of life across New Jersey through affordable housing and financial empowerment programs – to deliver essential services that help residents like Carlie build more stable and secure futures.

After completing AHA’s Financial Counseling course, Carlie gained not only practical financial tools, but also a renewed sense of confidence and hope.

“I now have the tools to gain financial security for myself and pass this amazing knowledge down to my daughter,” she said. “I am so grateful for the AHA team – they were patient, informative and inspiring every step of the way.”

Johnny faced similar challenges. As a senior and non-native English speaker, he often felt overwhelmed by paperwork and online processes, frequently relying on his daughter for help.

Through AHA, Johnny found the support he needed. What once felt complicated and stressful now became manageable. He completed the Financial Counseling course, received help applying for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the Universal Service Fund (USF) and worked with the Homeless Prevention Assistance team to navigate paperwork related to rental arrears.

Johnny described the experience as easy and straightforward.

“Everyone showed me patience and kindness, and I truly felt they wanted to help me. I’m so grateful for the way they supported me through this process,” he said. “Muchisimas Gracias – I appreciate everything you do for the community and what you did for me.”

“The strength of Monmouth ACTS lies in partnerships like the one Monmouth County has with AHA. Their ability to meet residents with compassion, expertise and support ensures that our collective efforts truly make a difference where it matters most,” said Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone.

“Monmouth ACTS brings together the right partners – like AHA – to create real, lasting impact for Monmouth County residents. Thanks to this collaboration, we are ensuring that individuals and families have the resources and support they need to not just survive, but build brighter, more secure futures,” said Commissioner Susan M. Kiley, liaison to the Department of Health & Human Services.

About Monmouth ACTS
Monmouth ACTS (Assisting Community Through Services) was created by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners in 2018 to carry out recommendations of a Human Services Needs Assessment. This innovative public-private partnership brings together County divisions from the Department of Human Services and community partners on the Monmouth ACTS Advisory Council (MAAC) to enhance access to services for County residents. For more information, visit www.monmouthACTS.org.

About AHA
The Affordable Housing Alliance's mission is to improve the quality of life for all New Jersey residents by developing and preserving affordable housing, offering services to maintain housing affordability, providing housing education, and helping communities meet their legal and moral housing obligations. For more information about the Affordable Housing Alliance and their programs, visit http://housingall.org/.