Churches Improving Communities (CIC) transforms lives through effective social justice and community service programming fueled by the passion and expertise of our staff and volunteers from faith communities of Central NJ. Churches Improving Communities (CIC) is a non-profit organization that assists 29 churches of the Reformed Church in America within the geographic area of the New Brunswick Clas
sis to meet the social, educational, and economic needs of their communities. Churches Improving Communities provides guidance, expertise and a structure within which to pool resources as its member churches seek to begin or expand community service projects such as, food pantries and soup kitchens, temporary and permanent housing for the homeless, assistance to immigrants and the formerly incarcerated, ESL classes, disaster relief, and programs to assist seniors and youth. CIC also operates currently operates four of its own programs:
NEIGHBORCORPS RE-ENTRY SERVICES provides free, supportive services that help individuals to transition from jail back into society and avoid recidivism. NeighborCorps pairs program participants from Middlesex County Jail with trained volunteer Navigator groups to create and carry out customized 30-day action plans that lead to successful re-entry into the community. Plans include steps towards finding gainful employment and housing; pursuing personal development through counseling and other supportive and treatment services; and regaining the trust of others through communication and accountability. DIRE (Deportation and Immigration Response Equipo) Support Services provides supportive community and connection to wrap-around supportive services for immigrants and their families who are affected by family separation due to increased ICE activity. citizens and undocumented individuals into precarious legal, economic, health, and mental health situations. Arrest, detention, and deportation have devastating effects on children in particular. NEW JERSEY INTERFAITH CENTER FOR CANCER CARE (NJIC3) responds to the complexity of cancer in our families and communities through individual, congregational, and systemic engagement, support, and advocacy. NJIC3 seeks to address the spiritual, emotional, social, and practical needs of those dealing with cancer, using tools drawn from the areas of contemplation, collaboration, and care. All CIC projects are non-religious, non-discriminatory, and are open to the community.
