Family Support
About
Family Support Services provides comprehensive, grant-funded programs to empower individuals and families throughout Southern Ocean County. We are dedicated to offering resources, education, and support to help families thrive. From parenting programs and anger management workshops to in-home services and transportation assistance, our team works to strengthen family dynamics and promote self-sufficiency.
We are here to meet you where you are—whether in our center, your home, or virtually—providing compassionate, culturally relevant services tailored to your needs.
At St. Francis Family Support Services we empower families and individuals by providing access to education, resources, and support that promote stability, well-being, and growth.
Our Services
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A 12-week interactive program designed to help parents develop effective strategies for nurturing, discipline, co-parenting, and boosting their child’s self-esteem.
Parenting in Recovery: Support specifically for families with substance abuse histories to strengthen relationships and heal together.
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A 12-week therapeutic group to help participants manage anger, identify triggers, and develop healthier coping skills.
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Provides donated vehicles and vehicle-related assistance for eligible TANF participants to overcome transportation barriers. Services include:
Vehicle repairs, driving lessons, insurance help, and more.
Clients must be receiving TANF and need to be referred by the board of social services
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A free, voluntary in-home parenting program for families with children under age 3 or expectant parents.
Focuses on child development, parenting techniques, and wellness resources.
Lacey Twp to Little Egg Harbor twp)
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Offers in-home therapy, parenting skills training, and case management for Spanish-speaking families.
Clients need to be referred by DCP&P
Annual Human Concerns Projects (2025)
Spring Dinner Project: Signups: March 24–April 3 | Distribution: April 16
Back-to-School Project: Signups: July 7–August 7 | Distribution: August 20
Thanksgiving Program: Signups: October 29–November 6 | Distribution: November 19
Gift of Warmth: Signups: October 14–November 20 | Distribution: December 10
Food Pantry at St. Francis
The Human Concerns Food Pantry at St. Francis Community Center is one of the largest in Ocean County, providing food items and personal hygiene products to families in need. As part of our homeless prevention program, we also assist clients in Southern Ocean County with utility and housing issues when funding is available, supported by grants from partners like the Acme Foundation, St. Elizabeth’s Mission Society, Ocean First Foundation, and others.
How to Register
Parenting Groups & Anger Management: Call to complete an intake and receive group schedules.
Auto Ownership Program: Referral required from the Ocean County Board of Social Services.
Parents As Teachers: Call 609-494-8861 to register.
MISSF: Families must be referred by the Ocean County Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP).
For questions, call 609-494-8861 or email bgesicki@stfrancislbi.org.
FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES AT ST. FRANCIS COMMUNITY CENTER |
FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES AT ST. FRANCIS COMMUNITY CENTER |
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ’s
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The Food Pantry serves individuals and families in need who reside in Southern Ocean County. Proof of residency may be required during your first visit.
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We offer non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products, and household essentials to support families facing food insecurity.
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Donations of non-perishable items and personal care products can be dropped off at the St. Francis Community Center during regular business hours (Monday–Thursday, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM). Monetary donations can also be made online on our website.
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Yes, when funding is available, the Human Concerns Program assists eligible clients with utility bills, housing costs, and emergency needs through grants from various sources.
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To inquire about food, personal items, or financial assistance, call 609-494-8861 ext. 171 or 172 to speak with a program representative. We’re here to help!
Meet Our Team
Breanne LaMarco, LCSW – Family Support Director
Nicole Vergara – Administrative Assistant
Groups Team:
Lorin Hazley, LSW
Kathy Giardella Devitt
Parents As Teachers:
Katie Krason – Program Supervisor
Astrid Ferrer-Serralde – Bilingual Parent Educator
Jodi Sherman – Parent Educator
Elexis Zapico – Parent Educator
MISSF Team:
Donna Aiello – Case Manager
Idaly Miron-Castellanos – Case Manager
Olga Ramales-Perez, LSW – Bilingual Therapist
Auto Ownership Program:
Madeline Riggi – Program Coordinator
Human Concerns:
Elizabeth Silk Gutowski – Program Coordinator
Volunteer Opportunities
Our volunteers are the cornerstone of our Family Support Services. Whether you assist with community events or program support, your time helps us make a meaningful impact. Call 609-494-8861 to learn how you can help.
