Zoning board grants Toms River nonprofit permanent family homeless shelter allowance

The Toms River zoning board has approved a permanent family homeless shelter at Saint Joseph’s Church, marking a significant step for local efforts to support vulnerable families. The decision allows Interfaith Family Services, a nonprofit organization based in Toms River, to operate the shelter as a permanent residence for up to three families. This change will provide greater stability for those in need, offering a consistent environment rather than the temporary nature of previous arrangements.

Since 1997, Interfaith Family Services has operated a shelter on the church’s property, serving over 1,000 families in need. The new status will enable the organization to offer more consistent services and resources to the families staying there. Father Scott Shaffer, who works closely with the organization, emphasized the importance of creating a sense of home for those in crisis. “These folks will feel like they’re still in a house and a home,” he said. “We will be able to offer more consistent services to the families and the individuals.”

The shift from temporary to permanent status means families will no longer face the disruption of frequent moves. This stability can help reduce the stress of changing schools and worrying about the future. “We have a 98% success rate,” said Cranwell, a representative of the organization. “We are here specifically for families, and we’re hoping that this leads to other communities embracing family homelessness and taking care of their own permanent shelters.”

The decision was met with positive feedback from members of the Toms River Zoning Board. Dana Tormollan, a mother and board member, reflected on the significance of the ruling. “It was so great to be in that same room where so much chaos ensues and bring peace and joy to people’s minds and hearts and their hearts,” she said.

The shelter will house up to 14 people in three families. Mayor Dan Rodrick, who faced criticism last year for removing a homeless encampment in the town’s parking garage, has expressed support for the initiative. “If we can help two families avoid falling deeper into crisis, we strengthen the entire community,” he said. “Keeping mothers and children safe and stable reduces long-term social costs and preserves family unity.”

This development reflects a growing recognition of the importance of providing stable, long-term solutions for families in need. As the shelter begins operations, it stands as a testament to the power of community action and the commitment to serve those in crisis. The effort aligns with the biblical call to care for the vulnerable, as seen in Matthew 25:35, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of welcoming the stranger and caring for the least of these.

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