SOUTH BRUNSWICK: Help during tough times

by Davy James, Staff Writer
   With the current state of the economy, many families and individuals are consumed by stress and may not know where to turn for help.
   With hopes of lending a helping hand, the township’s Social Services Department will be holding a free Family Assistance Fair on May 27 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the South Brunswick Senior Center.
   ”It’s difficult for people to cope with our current economic crisis,” said Social Services Director LouAnne Wolf. “We want to make people aware of the help that is out there.”
   Numerous vendors and speakers will offer information on a variety of services available. Representatives from the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependency, along with legal aides to give advice on a variety of issues, Women Aware and other various mental health organizations will be on hand.
   ”One of the big things we want to hit is mental health, which is always important, especially during tough economic times,” Ms. Wolf said.
   Angel Food Ministries, which provides food at low cost, will be at the fair, along with affordable housing, Medicaid, Job Corps and other vocational services. State Assemblywoman Linda Greenstein will be speaking, as will Mayor Frank Gambatese and Middlesex County Freeholder Carol Barrett.
   The mobile health van from St. Peters University Hospital will give free blood pressure and blood sugar screenings.
   ”With what’s going on across the country right now it’s important that people know where to look for help,” Ms. Wolf said. “We’re going to have vendors on hand who can offer help, whether it’s housing foreclosures or the recreational services available at the YMCA.”
   Transportation will be made available for people who sign up in advance. For more information, call 732-329-4000 ext. 7361.