Diverse Programs for Empowerment
At the John O. Wilson Hamilton Neighborhood Center, Inc., we are committed to providing a diverse range of programs designed to empower individuals and families. Our offerings include essential services such as emergency financial assistance, a robust food pantry, health screenings and vaccinations, in-person educational programs, and other initiatives designed to cater to diverse necessities.
Nourishing Families in Need
Supporting individuals and families struggling with the ever-increasing rise in food insecurity, we provide ongoing nourishment to residents across Mercer County. Stocked with canned fruits and vegetables, soup, pasta, rice, and other essential items, our food pantry is available to eligible residents by appointment every Thursday between the hours of 9:30 am and 4 pm.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Proof of Income: Provide proof of income for ALL ADULTS in the household for the last 4 weeks.
This includes:
-
- Copies of paycheck stubs for the last 4 weeks (either 4 weekly or 2 biweekly), or
- Copies of verification/determination letters, such as Social Security, SSDI, TANF, Unemployment, Insurance, or any other assistance received.
- Identification: Provide a valid NJ Driver’s License or government issued photo ID with the current address for ALL ADULTS in the household.
- Social Security Card: Provide a card for EVERYONE in the household (including children).
- Birth Certificate: Provide a certificate for ALL CHILDREN in the household.
In addition to the food pantry, our efforts to fight food insecurity include food drives available free of charge and without restriction for area residents. These include boxes of fresh produce, Thanksgiving turkeys with all the trimmings, Christmas gift baskets, and other food options to help enhance nutritional health and overall wellness.
Homeless Prevention
To prevent individuals and families from eviction and the loss of essential services such as heat, power, or water, our rent and utility assistance program offers vital support to qualified residents in Hamilton Township and surrounding Mercer County communities. This essential emergency relief service provides a one-time supplemental payment for rent, electricity, water, or heat, helping to alleviate the devastating impact of homelessness and the abrupt loss of utility services.
Individual & Family Support Services
This program provides comprehensive case management and support services to residents of Hamilton Township and surrounding communities. Case managers work collaboratively with individuals and families to identify obstacles and connect them with relevant resources and agencies.
A series of free, in-person classes and virtual presentations has been launched to enhance the community's understanding of physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Topics include stress management, the benefits of yoga and Tai Chi, heart disease and diabetes education, CPR training, self-defense, and household budgeting.
Focused on improving the quality of life for children and families, various initiatives address critical needs, such as the annual school backpack, Christmas gift, and winter coat giveaway campaigns. Additionally, Wilson Center youth and family programs are designed to foster social and educational development, promoting teamwork, empathy, communication, respect, and tolerance.
To enhance community access to essential technology, a free computer lab features eight upgraded desktop computers with internet access, Microsoft Office, and large monitors. Open daily from 10 am to 3 pm, the lab provides free copying and faxing services. Plans are underway to develop community-based computer literacy classes to support job training and bridge the digital divide.
Senior Activities
Recognizing the importance of social interaction and engagement for seniors, a variety of fun and interactive programs are offered, including bus trips to places of interest, arts and crafts, bingo, and games that reinforce cognitive abilities. Informative classes and workshops on relevant topics are also available to support health and well-being.
For more information about our senior activities, please see our calendar on the Events page.
Community Space
Small meeting/reception hall available for rent. Contact us for more information.
Rental Rates for Non-Civic Groups, Hamilton Township residents:
o One to 50 people:
• Monday - Friday (4 hours max) - $50
• Saturday, Sunday, holidays (4 hours max) - $150
o Fifty-one or more people:
• Monday - Friday (4 hours max) - $100
• Saturday, Sunday, holidays (4 hours max) - $250
Rental Rates for Non-Civic Groups, Non-Hamilton Township residents:
o One to 50 people:
• Monday - Friday (4 hours max) - $75
• Saturday, Sunday, holidays (4 hours max) - $250
o Fifty-one or more people:
• Monday - Friday (4 hours max) - $150
• Saturday, Sunday, holidays (4 hours max) - $350
This includes:
Additional Requirements:
For Rental Assistance: Provide eviction notice, court documents, rental account statements or notarized documentation from landlord indicating rental arrears or eviction.
For Utility Assistance: Provide utility bill indicating arrears and/or with shut-off notice.