News from Project Self-Sufficiency

  Project Self-Sufficiency recently received a grant in support of the agency’s food distribution program, The Food Pantry: Nourishing Our Neighbors, from the ACME Foundation Nourishing Neighbors program.   This is the second consecutive year that the organization’s food distribution program has received the funding.   The food pantry at Project Self-Sufficiency offers free food and limited personal care products to Sussex and Warren County residents, Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.     Patrons need not be agency participants.   Funding from the Acme Foundation Nourishing Neighbors program is specifically allocated for emergency food distribution related to the COVID-19 crisis.   Project Self-Sufficiency is welcoming monetary donations to purchase food, as well as the donation of non-perishable items such as canned soups and stews; canned fruits and vegetables; fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables; frozen meals; coffee; tuna; pastas and sauces; peanut butter and jelly; too

  Project Self-Sufficiency’s mobile services vehicle, PSS Journey, has returned to the road after a year-long hiatus due to the public health crisis.   This year, the RV will be joined by the agency’s mobile food delivery van, The Food Project, with regularly scheduled visits to Franklin, Hopatcong, Netcong, Sussex, and Vernon.   Individuals and families are encouraged to check the Project Self-Sufficiency website, or their own municipal websites, for the itinerary.   PSS Journey is a retrofitted recreational vehicle with internet access, computer workstations, and counseling and classroom space which allows Project Self-Sufficiency services to be brought to the more remote regions of Sussex and Northern Morris Counties where residents may not have easy access to personal vehicles or public transportation.   The RV, and its smaller companion, The Food Project, is stocked with food, diapers, and limited personal care products for those in need.     The arrival of the coronavir

  After taking a break because of the coronavirus, the “Sister-to-Sister” Prom Shop offered by Project Self-Sufficiency is back in business.   For one week only, teen girls are invited to make an appointment to select a new or gently used prom dress from the agency’s extensive collection.   The prom shop will be open Monday, May 3 rd – Thursday, May 6 th , 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, May 8 th , 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.   The public health crisis has forced the agency to make changes to the shopping experience; patrons will need to make an appointment, dresses cannot be tried on, and shoes and accessories will not be available.     “We understand the importance of the prom to teens, and we are delighted to be able to offer the opportunity for every young woman who needs a dress to select the perfect gown at the ‘Sister-to-Sister’ prom shop,” explained Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency.   “Thanks to the dedication of our staff, board, and volunte

  Parents and caregivers are invited to attend Project Self-Sufficiency’s virtual Family Expo , Thursday, April 29 th , 4:00 p.m.   Local social service and healthcare providers will be available to discuss resources for families in the areas of mental health, disability services, housing, domestic violence, social services, early childhood, health, and other topics.   One family in attendance will be randomly selected to receive a $100 gift card.   The Family Expo is sponsored by the Sussex County Family Success Center at Project Self-Sufficiency and Project Sussex Kids , the County Council for Young Children.   Attendance is free and open to the public; interested patrons are invited to call Project Self-Sufficiency at 973-940-3500 to obtain log-in details.   In addition to Project Self-Sufficiency, organizations which will be featured at the event include Atlantic Health System/Goryeb Children’s Hospital and Newton Medical Center; Caring Partners; DASI; Center for Family Supp