HAWKINS HOUSE
602 Greenwood Avenue
Trenton, New Jersey 08609

In order to address the growing issue of teenage homelessness, the New Jersey Association on Correction initiated a program aimed at housing some of the over 13,000 homeless youth that exist in the State of New Jersey.  Hawkins House is a trans-permanent housing program serving homeless youth in central New Jersey. Participants have either met the HUD definition of homeless, aged out of the foster care or juvenile justice system or have come directly off the street.

The program is located in Trenton, New Jersey, where a high concentration of homeless youth exists.  Participants are housed for a minimum of 18 to 24 months. Upon admission, a Needs Assessment is conducted and a Program Plan is put in place.  Based on the goals outlined in the plan, case management services are provided, some of which may include employment and educational assistance, independent living/life skills training and health/medical care.

The goal of this program is to break the cycle of homelessness and to create the opportunity for self-sufficiency as youth continue into adulthood.  Participants must be willing to work toward permanent objectives, which may include finishing High School, attaining a post-secondary degree or obtaining vocational training. Ultimately, participants will obtain meaningful employment, earning a livable wage that will enable them to sustain themselves in the community beyond programming.

To ensure stability beyond program completion, aftercare is provided on an as-needed basis.  Clients are encouraged to utilize case management staff if they require assistance finding a new job, want to develop new budgets, set new goals or need any other support in order to maintain their stable existence in the community.