Toms River Local Assistance Programs

This page lists local organizations in Toms River, 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. 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’s People’s Pantry is a choice model food pantry at the B.E.A.T. Center in Toms River. It grew out of the relief effort after Superstorm Sandy and serves Ocean County residents facing food insecurity. Call 732-731-1417 to confirm current hours before visiting.²

St. Joseph’s Food Pantry gives out free groceries to individuals and families in need. No appointment is needed. Bring ID if you have it, but ID is preferred rather than required. Call 732-240-1089 to confirm 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 main office is in Toms River at the Ocean County Resource Center. Apply in person, online through NJ OneApp, or by phone at 732-349-1500.⁴

The HOPE Center, run by the House of Hope of Ocean County, helps Ocean County residents in crisis with food from its client-choice pantry, emergency shelter assistance, rental assistance, and utility assistance when funding permits, plus referrals to partner agencies. It moved to 1070 Hooper Avenue, inside the Presbyterian Church of Toms River. Enter the pantry and offices from the Chestnut Street side of the building. Call 732-341-4447 for current hours before visiting.⁵