Interfaith Health &
Support Services
About
Over 25 years ago volunteers from St. Francis joined volunteers from 23 other congregations to form IHSS-- a not-for-profit organization that provides support services for those living at home who are vulnerable because of age or disability. Interfaith’s staff and volunteers put God’s love into action by promoting wellness and independence and alleviating loneliness for the members of our community in need.
Specifically, volunteers drive frail seniors to their doctor appointments or grocery shop for them or make phone calls or friendly visits to the homebound. Specially trained volunteers provide respite and support for the caregiver of a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Over 200 volunteers engaged in this ministry report that their outreach is so rewarding that they feel they receive more than they give. Interfaith has an office in Manahawkin and one in Little Egg Harbor and the service area extends from Forked River to Little Egg Harbor. Southern Ocean Medical Center and the St. Francis Community Center have been important partners in this ministry from the beginning.
What is Interfaith Health and Support Services of Southern Ocean County?
…We are a coalition of different faith communities, social service, and health care organizations that provides volunteer physical, emotional and spiritual support to those living at home who are vulnerable because of age or disability. We promote wellness and independence and alleviating loneliness and suffering through the services offered free of charge.
Who is helped?
The homebound and elderly, those unable to drive to their medical appointments, those unable to go to a grocery store, those diagnosed with early-stage dementia, and caregivers who need a respite are those helped.
Who provides the services?
…Volunteers who have undergone screening and training. They are members of the various faith communities in Southern Ocean County.
Is this service something new?
…No, it has a history that goes back to 1996 when individuals from Southern Ocean County Hospital, St. Francis Community Center and seven faith communities saw the need to provide assistance to many of their vulnerable members.
Get Involved
To volunteer, please click the contact information below:
You may also check Interfaith’ s webpage: interfaithsoc.org