Established in 2002, Turning Point Community Services (TPCS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing safe housing and comprehensive support services for women and their families. Serving families across Essex, Hudson, and Union counties, TPCS supports a diverse range of homeless individuals including:

• individuals facing mental health or substance use challenges
• survivors of domestic violence
• people living with HIV
• those who are underemployed or unemployed
• those who face socioeconomic inequality
• members of the LGBTQIA+ community
• those reentering society after incarceration
• people of all ages and cultural backgrounds

Emergency Housing

As the only family shelter in Irvington, our Servant’s House Emergency Housing Program has provided safe, temporary housing to women and their children for over 20 years. The facility accommodates up to 24 families, or approximately 70 individuals, in private, independent living spaces, minimizing the stigma and trauma associated with congregate shelters. Residents have access to shared living rooms, kitchens, a computer room, an on-site laundry facility, and a food pantry supplied by the Community Food Bank of New Jersey. Upon arrival, clients receive a Welcome Kit containing basic necessities, toiletries, and bed linens, along with access to new clothing.

Housing Navigation Services

Our on-site housing specialist works closely with clients to assess their housing needs and preferences, developing individualized housing service plans. They help troubleshoot barriers to housing access, identify suitable options based on budget and eligibility, and provide guidance on navigating the rental market. This includes:

• application assistance
• conducting inspections to ensure units meet housing standards
• negotiating lease terms and rental rates
• and explaining lease agreements and housing subsidy programs
  

The specialist stays up-to-date on fair housing laws, rental assistance programs, and community resources. They have established partnerships with landlords and community organizations across Essex, Hudson, Union, and Bergen counties.

Financial Assistance/Rapid Rehousing Services (Anticipate Launch 2025)

TPCS currently offers financial assistance for application fees, furniture, and other move-in costs.

Pending approval in 2025, TPCS aims to secure rapid rehousing assistance funds to provide medium-term rental support for 12 to 24 months, during which participants will contribute 30% of their total income.

Case Management

Our case managers employ a comprehensive, family-centered, and client-centered approach to case management. This model ensures that we deliver integrated and coordinated services tailored to the diverse needs of our clients. We work closely with each individual to assess service targets, discuss barriers, and identify effective strategies for achieving their goals. These plans include referrals to both internal and external support services to address identified challenges and foster independence.

At TPCS, we understand that our planning must extend beyond our walls, that’s why we collaborate with a variety of organizations to offer comprehensive support to our clients. We partner with Programs for Parents to secure affordable childcare for families, ensuring that parents have the freedom to seek employment opportunities. We also work with Legal Services of New Jersey to assist clients with legal matters, and we engage with banks and service organizations to provide financial literacy workshops and job training (learn more below).

Clinical and Behavioral Health Services

Our dedicated team of licensed clinicians provides high-quality, client-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally competent care to women and children in our housing programs. They specialize in mental health support, counseling, and therapy tailored to help individuals navigate trauma and develop coping strategies, delivering personalized treatment plans through careful assessment.

Understanding the unique needs of families experiencing homelessness, our team offers specialized support for both children and parents, addressing mental health, parenting needs, and developmental support.

In partnership with the Rutgers DAYAM Program, we provide access to HIV and STI testing and family planning services. The Newark Community Health Center collaborates with us to offer on-site blood pressure checks, glucose monitoring, COVID-19 vaccinations, and help scheduling medical and dental appointments. We also work with Rutgers Care Center to provide substance abuse counseling and treatment.

Life Skills and Education Workshops

TPCS provides a wide range of services and workshops designed to address various living and skill development needs. These informative sessions are available both on-site and virtually, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for all our clients.

Our offerings include:

• Life Skills – Focused on essential competencies such as decision-making, self-awareness, and stress management.
• Financial Literacy – Covering budgeting, credit score education, and effective saving habits.
• Parenting Support – Emphasizing care, consistency, and understanding choices and their outcomes.
• Job Readiness – Equipping participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to gain and sustain employment.
• Cooking and Nutrition – Teaching dietary choices and budget-friendly shopping strategies.
• Mental and Physical Health – Incorporating practices like journaling, meditation, yoga, and affordable fitness options.
• Education and GED Preparation – Supporting clients in their academic pursuits.
• Etiquette Training – Focusing on clothing, behavior, and body language.
  

Through these comprehensive programs, TPCS empowers clients to enhance their skills and improve their overall quality of life.

Continued Support

TPCS provides access to supportive services and resources even after clients leave our shelter facility, promoting long-term housing retention and self-sufficiency. Our case managers closely monitor progress, address challenges such as disputes and conflicts between tenants and landlords, conduct on-site follow-ups and home visits, and offer ongoing assistance for 6 to 12 months.

As an engaged Essex County Comprehensive Emergency Assistance System / Continuum of Care body member, TPCS is always at the forefront of new initiatives, policies, and opportunities that can benefit the unhoused population.

TPCS’s representatives also attend meetings and seminars hosted by county, state, and federal agencies to partake in problem-solving discussions, acquire additional resources and partnerships, and determine how TPCS can improve its services to become a better ally in the fight against homelessness.

To partner and collaborate with us, contact our Chief Development Officer, Dawn Schwartz.