Arm In Arm and Housing Initiatives of Princeton (HIP) are proud to announce the continuation of their long‑standing partnership to prevent homelessness for Mercer County families, made possible through a generous Community Impact Grant from the Princeton Area Community Foundation (Community Foundation). Community Foundation’s continued investment strengthens a model that has supported more than 120 families since 2022 and reflects the Foundation’s deep commitment to listening, learning, and responding to community need.
Across Mercer County, rising rents and the overall cost of living have placed unprecedented pressure on working families. Many households who are stably employed are now just one unexpected expense away from losing their homes. While public funding remains an important resource, it often cannot reach families early enough or cover the full range of circumstances that put them at risk.
Private funding from partners like Community Foundation provides the flexibility needed to intervene sooner and support families who may not qualify for government assistance but are still on the brink of homelessness. “Stable housing is the foundation for long‑term resilience. Through this partnership, we can intervene earlier and help families avoid the trauma of eviction,” said Cynthia Mendez, Director of Housing Stability Services at Arm In Arm.
Community Foundation’s support allows the partners to respond quickly with flexible assistance — including back rent, forward rent, or short‑term shelter — before a crisis escalates. Last year, with the support of a Community Foundation Community Impact Grant, Arm In Arm and HIP assisted 34 households, by providing rental assistance and security deposits to secure housing.
“We are thrilled to be continuing our partnership with Arm In Arm, combining our shared commitment to ending housing insecurity in Mercer County,” said Lori Troilo, Executive Director of Housing Initiatives of Princeton. “Thanks to the Princeton Area Community Foundation, together we can expand resources, strengthen support for families, and create lasting impact in our community.”
Arm In Arm and HIP’s single‑intake process streamlines aid distribution, reduces administrative burden, and ensures families receive direct financial assistance without navigating multiple agencies. With time and energy redirected toward work, childcare, and stability, families can regain equilibrium. Arm In Arm’s wraparound services including case management, financial fitness education, food assistance, crisis intervention, and support for single mothers provide the additional tools families need to maintain housing after a crisis.
“Housing insecurity affects every aspect of a family’s life — employment, health, education, and emotional well‑being,” said Maureen Hunt, Executive Director of Arm In Arm. “Community Foundation’s continued investment and partnership empower us to prevent homelessness and help families build a foundation for lasting stability.”