Each municipality in the State of New Jersey is required by law (Chapter I of Title 44, Revised Statutes) to provide financial assistance and medical care to all eligible persons residing in the community at the time of application and not otherwise so provided for under the laws of this State and to such other persons who may be in the municipality and require some emergency assistance.

The "Work First New Jersey/General Assistance" (WFNJ/GA) Program is administered by the municipality's Director of Welfare, under the supervision of the Local Assistance Board (LAB). The Director is responsible for the determination of each applicant's eligibility in accordance with State law and regulations.

Although the State is responsible for the General Assistance costs (grants to clients, emergency assistance, etc.), the Township Council adopted on 12/16/97) continues to be responsible for all administrative costs of the Welfare Department, including staff salaries and required audits. In addition, the Municipal Welfare Department (MWD) is responsible for the cost of providing any needed assistance to persons not eligible for General Assistance, but in need of assistance under the provisions of Chapter I of Title 44, Revised Statutes.

Finally, the Hillside Welfare Department continues to serve as a community-based focal point for a wide range of social services. There are also integrated services carried out in corporation with other Township departments and agencies as well as County and State agencies, public and private, including the Salvation Army.