SHIP, the Samaritan Homeless Interim Program, began operations on March 5, 1984 in response to the unheeded cry of the many women, children and men who are in desperate need of emergency housing and associated services.  SHIP is a faith based, interfaith and community funded, assisted and supported, grassroots organization.  Our clients are the homeless, near-homeless, working poor families, and individuals in Somerset County Regions who are not able to obtain assistance from government or other private agencies, and are therefore denied a opportunity to receive the basic humane assistance they need and deserve.  Clients coming to SHIP, in desperate need of help, include many that suffer from substance abuse dependency, HIV/AIDS, mental health issues, the homeless and near homeless working poor, hunger or isolation.  Services tailored to each individual's need, and vary in duration according to each individual or families situation.  We provide this unique population with critically needed emergency interim housing opportunities, interim counseling, and support services, that greatly enhancing their chances of regaining their self-sufficiency again.  SHIP is dedicated to improving the quality of life for the poor.  Clients are eligible to apply for all SHIP's Programs and Services.  THERE ARE NO FEES CHARGED FOR SERVICES.

 SHIP is a registered charitable agency in the State of New Jersey and operates as a tax-exempt corporation within the scope of the Internal Revenue Code 501-C-3.  SHIP services are primarily funded by donations received from area churches, groups, and individuals.  SHIP does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, or handicapped status in employment or provision of services.