Down the Block Passes $110,000 Mark

Despite the affluence that Millburn and Short Hills are known for, the difficult economy of the last few years has left many township residents in financial distress, needing to turn to Down the Block to pay their bills.

The non-profit agency recently passed the passed the $110,000 mark for paying bills. 

"What remains surprising to me is how different the applicants are. We'll have a new immigrant family whose children are thriving in the schools followed by a senior who has lived in town all his life followed by a disabled single mom followed by a long-time active family that has fallen on hard times," says Wendi Weill. "Our applicants come from every corner of Millburn Township."

There is, however, one similarity among all of the applicants, she said.

"Each one is absolutely miserable to have to reach out to us.  Many of our applicants say that, before they fell on hard times, they were always the ones to donate," she said. "They can't believe they're now the ones asking for help."

Down the Block eases that feeling for those who turn to the agency, she said, because the people there are understanding and kind.

"Though we need to get a handle on their financial situation as part of the vetting process, we do so in a respectful, discreet way," she said "We're very aware of the need to protect their privacy.

"I'm proud of the work we do - of both the service we provide and the way in which we provide it."

Applications for aid can be found at www.DownTheBlock.org filled out online or by calling (973)943-1424.