housing assistance and other resources at library

Alternatives, Inc. and the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ) are continuing their partnership throughout 2019, offering residents housing assistance and other resources through satellite office hours hosted at SCLSNJ’s branches.

“SCLSNJ is excited to announce our partnership with Alternatives, Inc. We are pleased to meet the needs of our communities by creating spaces which allow for meaningful interactions and connections,” said Lauren Ryan, SCLSNJ manager of branch services – strategic initiatives and special projects.

“I feel honored to be collaborating with the Library System, which has provided Alternatives new opportunities to better the lives of individuals in the community we serve. Being able to educate, offer support, and connect people to resources and community providers is very fulfilling. Through this partnership, the library staff and I are able to learn about the needs in the community and to help individuals gain more independence and achieve their own personal journey towards recovery,” said Heather Bielefeldt, LAC, director of intake and admissions at Alternatives, Inc.

Services provided will include: clinical counseling, psycho-education, assistance with daily living skills, money management, and linkages to community resources, medical and mental health providers, housing, and more.

“Like other senior managers at the Library, I serve on boards of local non-profits, not just to lend a hand but to partner with them in addressing community needs. As a result, we find opportunities to partner and to develop new ways to align the strengths of each agency in better achieving our mutual missions,” said Brian K. Auger, SCLSNJ county library administrator.

Alternatives, Inc.: Satellite Office Hours Hosted at SCLSNJ

  • March 20, 3:30-6:30 p.m., hosted at the North Plainfield branch located at 6 Rockview Avenue in North
  • April 17, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., hosted at the North Plainfield branch located at 6 Rockview Avenue in North Plainfield.

Drop-in hours only. No appointment required.

To learn more about Alternatives, Inc., visit alternativesinc.org. For more information on the Library System, visit SCLSNJ.org.

About Alternatives, Inc.
Alternatives, Inc. provides comprehensive services to individuals and families with special needs enabling them to reach their highest level of independence and integration into the community. Alternatives, Inc. is committed to being the human services agency of choice in providing residential and support services to people in the Greater Central New Jersey community. Alternatives, Inc. person-centered philosophy is dedicated to providing each person served the support they need to assist them in achieving their goals. No matter what challenges you may face, Alternatives will develop an individualized plan to help you on your journey as an active member of our community. Learn more at alternativesinc.org.

About Somerset County Library System of New Jersey
Somerset County Library System of New Jersey (SCLSNJ) partners with you to connect, to explore, to share and to discover. Together we enrich lives, expand knowledge and strengthen communities. SCLSNJ branches can be found in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Rocky Hill at Mary Jacobs Memorial Library, Somerville, Warren Township, and Watchung. Additionally, there are two SCLSNJ reading stations in Branchburg and Washington Valley. Visit SCLSNJ.org.