Makes FY 2025 supplemental appropriation of $587,450 to DCF for HomeFront NJ - Diaper Access Expansion Pilot Program.
Impact
The appropriation is intended to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of HomeFront NJ, enabling the organization to officially formalize and expand its diaper distribution efforts. Given the reported diaper need affecting approximately 47 percent of parents in the United States, this funding seeks to ensure that more households have access to essential supplies necessary for the health and well-being of infants and toddlers. The bill reflects a growing recognition of the intersection between lack of basic necessities and homelessness, with the potential to improve outcomes for vulnerable families.
Summary
Assembly Bill A4322 proposes a fiscal year 2025 supplemental appropriation of $597,450 to the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) for the HomeFront NJ Diaper Access Expansion Pilot Program. This initiative aims to bolster support for families in need by addressing the critical issue of diaper access, which has been characterized as a significant barrier for many parents. The program's goal is to expand the reach of HomeFront NJ, a non-profit organization that has been working informally to provide diapers to families facing financial challenges, thereby increasing the program's capacity to assist a larger number of families across the state.
Contention
While the bill is positioned as a critical support measure for families in need, discussions surrounding it may evoke contentions regarding resource allocation within the state budget. Some stakeholders might question the effectiveness and efficiency of funding such programs, particularly in the context of competing social services needs. Moreover, as New Jersey grapples with ongoing economic challenges, critics may voice concerns about sustainability and the prioritization of funding for pilot programs as opposed to more established services. Nevertheless, advocates argue that investing in basic necessities will yield long-term benefits, alleviating some aspects of poverty and homelessness.
Makes FY2024 supplemental appropriations of $37,430,000; de-appropriates $24,000,000 in existing FY2024 appropriations; adds and modifies various FY2024 language provisions.
Makes FY2024 supplemental appropriations of $37,430,000; de-appropriates $24,000,000 in existing FY2024 appropriations; adds and modifies various FY2024 language provisions.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.