Absecon nonprofit that helps people in Atlantic and Ocean Counties needs assistance

A faith-based nonprofit organization in Absecon that has helped more than 400 people in Atlantic and Ocean Counties who are homeless or struggling financially needs donations and volunteers to continue providing assistance through the winter. 

The ministry operates on a yearly budget of about $120,000 a year with no more than 12 percent of funding raised going toward overhead, according to Bill Southrey, President and CEO of Haven/Beat the Streets. He said the ministry helps anyone in need, regardless of faith, such as those facing eviction or utility cut-offs.

"Or if they have extra kinds of bills, medicines for people that are sick that can't afford their medicines. So many people have fallen on hard times even down to the point where we buy cell phones for people who can't keep their phones on at home, especially elderly who  are struggling to stay in touch and be stay safe, they live alone," said Southrey.

Southrey shared his approach to the idea of homelessness. "If you're not in Christ, you're not going home. So guess what you really are, you're homeless." He added those who seek help from the ministry and those the ministry approaches to assist are provided with information about Jesus, but are not obligated to accept the ministry's religious beliefs to receive help.

Southrey is a certified social worker and was the Executive Director of the Atlantic City Rescue Mission for 30 years. He was involved with helping more than 70 residents of the former Tent City Homeless Camp in Lakewood relocate.

He pointed out the Haven/Beat the Streets works directly with social services agencies and is receiving a $36,000 housing grant from Ocean County for 2016.

The nonprofit plans on opening a warming center in Barnegat this month, on December 21,2015, according to its website.

Donations can be made online at http://www.havenstreets.org/donate/ or through mail to HAVEN / Beat the Street Inc., 231 North New Road, Absecon, NJ 08201.

Southrey can be contacted in the office at 609-246-7034 or directly at 609-513-9327.