Pallone: Perth Amboy Officially Awarded Federal Funding for New Employment and Financial Opportunity Center

Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced that federal funding for the United Way of Central Jersey Financial Opportunity Center (FOC) has officially been awarded to Perth Amboy. Pallone secured $425,000 for the center in a federal spending bill that was signed into law last year and held an event in Perth Amboy last June to highlight the project with local leaders. The new center will provide an integrated set of services for families in need, including employment services, financial education and coaching, and assistance applying for federal support. This support is essential for low-income families who may need help as they recover from financial hardship and the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Federal funding for this new center is officially on its way to Perth Amboy. The center will help families who need employment and financial assistance in our region. The United Way of Central Jersey Financial Opportunity Center will offer a range of critical services to families who need help getting back on their feet," said Pallone. "We must make sure that every family has the resources they need to make a better life for themselves and their families. I want to thank the United Way of Central Jersey for its dedication to our community."

"I applaud Congressman Pallone for securing a Federal investment for the United Way's Financial Opportunity Center program," said Assemblywoman Lopez. "We know that poverty is a complex issue and that this innovative program will provide families with the resources, coaching and classes needed to achieve financial stability. As a former nonprofit executive, I know the impact that these programs can have for families, and I am confident that the FOC will help families break the cycle of poverty improving their overall quality of life."

"Our partnership with United Way has been integral for our residents with several shared services," said Mayor Helmin J. Caba. "I want to thank the United Way of Central Jersey, United Women, and Congressman Pallone Jr. for their continued advocacy for our residents. I am confident that through the life changing financial skills gained at the new FOC, the lives of our families will be changed for the better."

"Studies have shown that family income during critical early childhood years is strongly associated with not only with educational success, but also as other positive social and economic outcomes. We know, however, that 20% of children in the United States grow up in poverty," said Lawrence P. O'Connell, Chair, United Way Board of Trustees. "United Way of Central Jersey is committed to improving financial stability for Central Jersey families with young children by establishing a Financial Opportunity Center in Perth Amboy, NJ in collaboration with LISC and the City of Perth Amboy. Congressman Pallone's support of our Congressional Community Project proposal has made this a reality. We thank Congressman Pallone for his leadership, foresight and commitment to our communities, in particular laying the groundwork for academic and life success for our children."