In communities across New Jersey, there’s a quiet yet powerful force working every day
to make sure that families do not face the unbearable choice between paying for heat
and paying for other basic necessities. That force is SHARES Nation, a nonprofit
organization that has spent more than two decades providing critical assistance to
households struggling with energy and utility bills. Today, SHARES stands as a top
resource in the state for comprehensive support in keeping the heat on, the lights bright,
and household services intact during times of financial hardship.
Since its inception more than 26 years ago, SHARES Nation — formerly known as NJ
SHARES — has served as a trusted safety net for households experiencing temporary
financial crises. Its mission is simple yet profound: to help individuals and families
maintain essential utility services when unexpected financial hardship strikes. Whether
the challenge is job loss, illness, or an unforeseen emergency, SHARES exists to make
sure that no family has to endure a utility shutoff during their most vulnerable moments.
New Jersey’s winters can be unforgiving. As temperatures drop, energy usage rises,
and for many families the cost of staying warm becomes overwhelming. SHARES plays
a critical role during these colder months, stepping in when it matters most to ensure
homes remain safe and livable. Keeping the heat on is not a luxury — it is a matter of
health, safety, and dignity. For seniors, children, and those with medical needs, reliable
heat and electricity can be lifesaving.
What truly distinguishes SHARES from other assistance programs is its ability to fill the
gaps. Many households earn just enough to be ineligible for state or federal assistance
programs, yet still struggle to manage rising utility bills. SHARES provides targeted,
short‑term assistance to these families, helping them get through difficult periods and
regain financial stability without falling further behind.
SHARES Nation also offers support beyond traditional energy assistance. Through
partnerships with social service agencies, community organizations, and legislative
offices across the state, SHARES connects families to water assistance,
telecommunications support, housing resources, and health coverage options. This
holistic approach recognizes that financial hardship rarely affects just one bill — it
impacts every aspect of household stability.
The success of SHARES would not be possible without the continued partnership and
support of New Jersey’s utility companies. Utilities across the state have consistently
stepped up, working collaboratively with SHARES to support customers facing hardship.
Their commitment reflects a shared understanding that access to energy is fundamental to community well‑being. These partnerships demonstrate how utilities and nonprofits
can work together to deliver meaningful, compassionate solutions for the people they
serve.
As we recognize the vital role SHARES plays, it is important to acknowledge the
thousands of families who have benefited from its programs. For a parent keeping their
home warm through the winter, a senior on a fixed income avoiding a shutoff, or a
household navigating a temporary setback, SHARES provides more than financial
assistance — it provides peace of mind.
Even after more than two decades of service, the need for SHARES remains strong.
Economic uncertainty, rising costs, and unexpected life events continue to put pressure
on households across New Jersey. Continued awareness, partnership, and support are
essential to ensuring SHARES can carry its mission forward.
As the cold months set in, SHARES Nation stands ready — ensuring the heat stays on,
the lights remain bright, and New Jersey families can focus on moving forward. Its work
reflects the best of what community partnership looks like: compassion, collaboration,
and a shared commitment to helping neighbors in need.
Cheryl Stowell is the CEO of SHARES Nation.
