Lakewood Local Assistance Programs

This page lists local organizations in Lakewood, New Jersey that provide free legal help, food and social services. Statewide programs are described on the New Jersey page.

Legal aid

South Jersey Legal Services provides free civil legal help to low-income residents of Ocean County and eight other South Jersey counties. Its Ocean County office sits in Toms River, a short drive from Lakewood. Apply by calling the statewide intake line at 1-800-496-4570 between 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday, or apply online.¹

Food

Fulfill is the food bank for Monmouth and Ocean counties. It supplies food to partner pantries and soup kitchens across both counties, and its pantry finder lists food help near any ZIP code. The Neptune warehouse is not a walk-in pantry. Call 732-918-2600 for help finding food near Lakewood.²

The House of Blessing at Calvary Lighthouse Church has given out food and clothing in Lakewood since 1993. No fee is ever charged, and no one in need is ever refused. Call 732-942-1541 for current hours before visiting.³

Social services

The Ocean County Board of Social Services runs the county office for SNAP, TANF, General Assistance, Medicaid, and emergency assistance. Its Northern Satellite Office is in Lakewood, at the Northern Ocean County Resource Center. The main office is in Toms River at 1005 Hooper Avenue, phone 732-349-1500.⁴

Lakewood Community Services Corporation runs outpatient therapy, family support, and senior resources for the greater Lakewood community. Its Family Success Center at 415 Carey Street offers family support programs.⁵