This bill aims to enhance social services supports for low-income students at county colleges in New Jersey. It mandates the New Jersey Council of County Colleges to collaborate with each county college to identify and address gaps in meeting basic student needs. The council, in consultation with the Department of Human Services, is tasked with providing information on available social services and enrollment procedures. Additionally, the bill allows for the establishment of partnerships between county colleges and various organizations, including state agencies and non-profits, to increase student enrollment in social services and potentially offer direct services on college campuses.
Furthermore, the bill requires each county college to work closely with representatives from county boards of social services to provide direct assistance to students in accessing social services. The Division of Family Development within the Department of Human Services is also directed to support community college staff in assisting students with applications for programs like SNAP and TANF. Lastly, the bill calls for partnerships between county colleges and local workforce development boards to identify unemployed and underemployed residents who could benefit from enrollment in county colleges, thereby facilitating career pathways for these individuals.