Displaced Homemakers
The Displaced Homemakers program at Ocean County College is an employment readiness initiative dedicated to empowering individuals impacted by the loss of their primary source of income. Whether due to separation, divorce, widowhood, spousal disability, spousal military deployment, or domestic violence, our program supports those transitioning into the role of head of household.
Funding is provided by a grant through Division of Children and Families (DCF), Department of Women (DOW) to support both women and men.
The generosity of foundations and private donors enhances activities and offers the potential to expand the number of clients we can serve.
At Ocean County College, we recognize the unique challenges faced by our clients. We are committed to partnering with them to build meaningful educational and career goals that enhance employability and economic self-sufficiency through a comprehensive and holistic approach.
Services Include:
Participants will be provided with resources and workshops designed to equip them with the essential skills for today’s job market.
Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a collaborative process with advisors guiding them towards achieving their educational and career goals. This can be through helping them understand the curriculum, develop meaningful educational plans, and connecting with relevant resources.
We believe that personal well-being is crucial for professional success. Our program includes resources and workshops focused on self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-care.
Participants will be provided with resources and workshops to gain the skills crucial for personal, social, and professional success, such as problem solving, communication, decision making, critical thinking, resilience, emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and money management.
Clients will have access to a variety of training materials and assessment tools to help identify their strengths and areas for growth.
For clients who meet the criteria and demonstrate readiness, we cover the cost of short-term certificates and training programs.
Throughout the process, clients will participate in regular case management reviews to monitor progress, address barriers, and receive feedback. This collaborative approach ensures that clients are supported every step of the way.
Participants will be provided with workshops, referrals, and guest speakers
We understand that some needs may extend beyond our program’s offerings. Therefore, we provide community referrals to clients who identify additional needs, ensuring they receive comprehensive support. In addition, ongoing collaboration with community providers will be maintained, upon client consent, to facilitate a holistic and seamless support network.
Check Your Eligibility – Complete the Self Screening Application Below:
DHP Self Screening
Discover Learning Opportunities
Elementary Computers
Learn the Basics: Essential Computer Parts and Functions. For more information, Register now, View the flyer for more information!
Rising Together Peer Book Club
Exclusively for individuals navigating life transitions as displaced homemakers. Join us for a book discussion on Thursday, October 1st. Register and reserve your spot!
Workplace Computer Skills
Develop the skills needed to be a valuable member of the workforce. Learn the skills needed to be successful.
Your choice of Virtual or In-Person sessions. View the flyer for scheduling details and link to register.
Trauma Compass Workshop Series
Ocean County Displaced Homemakers Program is excited to announce our Fall 2026 Trauma Compass series hosted in partnership with Preferred Behavioral Health.
Please Note: Each of the following workshops are a 4-part mini-series. When you register, you are registering for all four classes of that workshop. Reserve your spot today!
Understanding Trauma – View flyer and register for Tuesdays: 9/15, 9/22, 9/29 and 10/6/2026
Self-Empowerment – View flyer and register for Tuesdays 10/13, 10/20, 10/27 and 11/3/2026
The ReLaunch Center, County College of Morris
Ocean County College is collaborating with County College of Morris, The ReLaunch Center to offer workshops and resources to OCC students participating in the Displaced Homemakers Program (DHP). Through this collaboration, ReLaunch at CCM will provide workshops designed to support participants with valuable skills, resources, and opportunities for personal and professional development.
Fall 2026 Divorce Workshop Series – The ReLaunch Center
Join us for this free eight session series designed to provide valuable information and guidance through a very difficult period. Choose any or all of these virtual sessions.
Register for all sessions online. Visit https://tinyurl.com/ReLaunchFall26 or scan the QR code on the reverse side of this flyer.
Divorce Litigation Process & Choosing a Lawyer with Vincent Celli, Esq., Celli & Schlossberg, LLC
Thursday, October 1, 2026, 6-8pm – ZOOM
Going through a divorce can be overwhelming and confusing. Learn what to expect and gain valuable knowledge.
Mediation, Arbitration, Negotiation and Collaborative Divorce with Denise Wennogle, Esq., Wennogle Law
Thursday, October 8, 2026, 6-8pm – ZOOM
This session will focus on the Alternate Dispute Resolution techniques of mediation, arbitration, negotiation and collaborative divorce.
The Case Information Statement with Laurie Newmark, Esq., Townsend, Tomaio, Newmark & Clancy, L.L.C.
Thursday, October 15, 2026, 6-8pm – ZOOM
This session will focus on the case information statement, a cornerstone for financial decisions in divorce proceedings. It helps the court assess support obligations, asset division, and the overall financial picture.
Custody and Parenting Time with Catherine Riordan, Esq., Riordan Family Law
Thursday, October 22, 2026, 6-8pm – ZOOM
Join us for an informative session designed to provide insights on custody and parenting time. Whether you’re seeking guidance or looking to understand your options, this free workshop is here to help.
Equitable Distribution, Alimony & Support with Steve Fletcher, Esq., Heymann & Fletcher
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 6-8pm – ZOOM
This session focuses on dividing property fairly and providing ongoing financial support. Join our FREE informational workshop and gain valuable information from
an experienced family attorney.
Post-Judgment Relief with Patricia L. Veres, Esq., Einhorn Barbarito
Thursday, November 5, 2026, 6-8pm – ZOOM
This session focuses on legal actions taken after the final divorce order (Judgment of Divorce) is issued, seeking to modify or enforce its terms. This could involve changes to child custody, support, alimony, or addressing issues not previously resolved in the divorce.
Emotional Aspects of Divorce with Gloria Correa, Creating Change, LLC
Thursday, November 12, 2026, 6-8pm – ZOOM
Going through a divorce can feel overwhelming and unpredictable. This session will guide you through understanding your emotions and developing strategies to build resilience.
Financial Aspects of Divorce with Claudia Mott, CFP, CDFA, Epona Financial Solutions
Thursday, November 19, 2026, 6-8pm – ZOOM
This session will provide insights on the process of identifying, valuing and dividing marital assets and debts, as well as determining alimony and child support obligations, all with the goal of achieving a fair and equitable outcome for both spouses.
To register for any of our Divorce Workshops, please visit https://tinyurl.com/ReLaunchFall26 or scan the QR code below:
October 2026 Workshops at the ReLaunch Center
All workshops are FREE and held on Zoom unless otherwise noted. REGISTER HERE for all workshops or see QR code on the reverse side.
For registration help, please contact JoAnn Whetsell at jwhetsell@ccm.edu or 973-328-5134.
Financial Empowerment Series
The Psychology of Spending with Affinity Federal Credit Union
Wednesday, October 7, 2026 | 11:30am-12:30pm
Location: Zoom
Many people don’t realize that the retail industry uses different tricks and techniques to spend money. By being aware of how these tricks and techniques are used, many consumers will avoid the typical traps and overspending.
Debt Repayment Strategies with Affinity Federal Credit Union
Wednesday, October 14, 2026 | 11:30am-12:30pm
Location: Zoom
In this workshop the attendees should be able to identify which strategy fits their needs and how to apply it.
Basic Estate Planning with Affinity Federal Credit Union
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | 11:30am-12:30pm
Location: Zoom
Estate planning involves determining how your assets will be preserved, managed, and distributed after death. Learn to prepare an estate plan that reflects the way you want your personal and financial affairs to be handled in case of incapacity or death.
Career Series
Intro to LinkedIn, Two-Part Workshop with Sharon Hamersley
Thursdays, October 15 & 22, 2026 | 10:30am-12:00pm
Location: Zoom
Whether you’re brand new to LinkedIn or already have a profile but aren’t sure how to use it effectively, this two-part interactive series is for you. In Part One, we’ll cover the basics—what LinkedIn is, why it matters in today’s job market, and how to create or improve your profile so it clearly highlights your skills and experience.
In Part Two, we’ll focus on strategy: “I’m on LinkedIn… now what?” Learn how to build connections, grow your network, search for jobs, and use LinkedIn as an active tool in your job search—not just an online resume.
No matter your starting point, you’ll leave with practical tools to support your job search goals. While the sessions are designed as a two-part series, attendance at both is not required, particularly for people who know the LinkedIn basics.
Personal Wellness Series
Stress Less with Genaya Palmer, Mental Health Association
Tuesday, October 20, 2026 | 6:00pm-7:30pm
Location: County College of Morris, Student Community Center, Room 117- (214 Center Grove Road, Randolph, NJ)
This workshop will help you understand where your stress comes from and how to manage it effectively. It will include an activity designed to help you practice stress management skills. Light refreshments provided.
To register for any of our October workshops, please visit https://tinyurl.com/ReLaunchFall26 or scan the QR code below:
Opportunities with the DHP
Need Assistance / Questions?
Contact: Stacy West, Program Coordinator
Displaced Homemakers Program
Student Services
Location: Library Bldg. #3 – Rm L025
Ph: 732-255-0400 ext. 2004
Email: swelch-west@ocean.edu
We want to hear from you!
Please take a few minutes to let us know about your experiences with Displaced Homemakers, what we have done well, and how we can improve. https://surveys.dcf.state.nj.us/surveys/?s=3K9HYEJLYJRXYJHE