Community services group awarded $250,000 grant to launch Medicaid services program for distressed families

Turning Point Community Services said June 23 it has been awarded a $250,000 grant through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and Department of Human Services as part of the NJ FamilyCare Housing Supports Provider Readiness Program. 

This funding will allow the community services organization to launch a Medicaid-reimbursable housing support program, providing essential services to families at Servant’s House shelter while expanding access to those in affordable housing—both within the organization’s own housing programs and through partner developments.

The $10.7 million the readiness program initiative awarded funding to 43 nonprofit organizations across New Jersey, reflecting a bold, statewide effort to improve health outcomes and housing stability for vulnerable residents. Turning Point Community Services will use the $250,000 grant as seed capital to prepare for enrollment with NJ FamilyCare, build staff capacity, and integrate Medicaid housing-related case management and support services into its trauma-informed care model.

“This investment is a pivotal moment for Turning Point Community Services,” said Karimah A. Hagans, executive director of the organization. “For years, we have witnessed the interconnection between housing stability and a family’s overall health. This grant allows us to take the next step—merging housing support with health-care access, ensuring that our families receive holistic services designed to support lasting independence.”

The NJ FamilyCare Housing Supports Program, approved under New Jersey’s Section 1115 Waiver Demonstration in April 2023, offers four critical services to qualifying members:

  • Pre-Tenancy Services: Case management support to secure safe housing.
  • Tenancy Sustaining Services: Ongoing support to maintain housing stability.
  • Move-in Supports: One-time financial assistance for moving costs and security deposits.
  • Residential Modifications and Remediation Services: Home modifications to improve safety and accessibility.

To qualify, individuals must be NJ FamilyCare members enrolled in a managed care organization and meet specific clinical and social risk factors, such as homelessness or chronic health conditions.