Bergen County officials have announced that the 20th Annual Project Homeless Connect (PHC) will take place on January 28, 2026. The event is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bergen County Housing, Health and Human Services Center in Hackensack.
Project Homeless Connect is a countywide initiative focused on improving access to resources for homeless and at-risk residents. The event also aims to raise awareness of issues faced by these populations and encourages collaboration among nonprofit organizations, public agencies, private entities, and volunteers.
According to the organizers, “Project Homeless Connect is a one-day countywide effort designed to improve access to resources and to increase awareness of the issues confronting our homeless and at-risk residents. It also promotes collaboration between our non-profit, public, private, and individual volunteers in the effort to end homelessness. While the PHC is held annually, the Bergen County Departments and Divisions work year-long with our community partners and local organizations to serve those most in need of help.”
During this year’s event, attendees will have access to information and referrals from various providers. Medical services such as flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines, and boosters will be available. Additional support includes information about housing options, legal assistance, job readiness programs, and mental health care.
The Point-in-Time (PIT) survey will also be conducted alongside PHC activities. This survey gathers data on households experiencing or at risk of homelessness within Bergen County. Trained staff and volunteers will engage with individuals in the community during this process to offer information and collect demographic details. Organizers state that “the results of the survey will help determine the best allocation of resources and will allow the county to further advocate for additional resources from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.”
Bergen County reports it was recognized as the first community nationwide to reach functional zero for chronic homelessness. The county was also New Jersey’s first—and 28th nationally—to meet goals set by the Mayors Challenge to End Veteran Homelessness. Additionally, it has been acknowledged by federal agencies as a double-zero community for its crisis response system addressing both chronic and veteran homelessness.
Members of the media are invited for photo opportunities between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., when guided tours of facilities will be offered.
