Newark nonprofit UCC receives $150K Prudential Financial contribution to expand shelter services
NEWARK, N.J. – United Community Corporation (UCC), Newark’s Community Action Agency, has received a $150,000 contribution from Prudential Financial to support its “Hope for the Homeless” initiative, which will provide shelter, essential resources and long-term assistance for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Homelessness remains a pressing issue in the Greater Newark area, where rising housing costs, economic instability and a shortage of affordable housing have left many individuals and families without a safe, warm place to stay.
In Essex County, homelessness spiked 54% between 2023 and 2024, according to data reported by nonprofit Monarch Housing Associates. The nonprofit, which manages an annual “Point in Time Count,” reported that volunteers counted 2,451 people experiencing homelessness in the county in one day. In Newark, volunteers counted 2,089 people – 85.4% of Essex County’s total homeless population.
With thousands across Greater Newark relying on emergency shelter services each year, UCC will use the funds to expand its resources, providing safe shelter, case management and pathways to stability through employment assistance and housing programs.
"We are grateful to Prudential Financial for their commitment to help UCC serve the community’s most vulnerable residents," UCC Executive Director Craig Mainor said. "As the need for comprehensive, long-term solutions in mitigating homelessness persists, this funding goes a long way in helping the agency continue to provide immediate relief while equipping individuals with the resources needed to rebuild and transform their lives."
Currently, UCC operates its emergency shelter at 31 Fulton St. in Newark and manages Hope villages I and II, transitional housing facilities made from shipping containers retrofitted with modern amenities to assist individuals facing homelessness.
At the Hope villages, UCC staff provide case management, supervision and secure housing placement for the guests. Since 2021, the agency’s emergency services have helped 42 people transition to permanent housing.
UCC has also expanded services at its emergency shelter through its Emergency Respite pilot program, which offers temporary shelter for individuals in urgent need referred through the emergency room at University Hospital. Through the program, the agency connects participants with case management, essential services, and aids in navigating their medical needs.
For more information about UCC’s programs and services, visit uccnewark.org.
United Community Corporation
"Moving people from dependency to self-sufficiency"