The Heat Is Here.
Check On Them.

SOUTH JERSEY — The temperature outside right now isn't just uncomfortable. For some of your neighbors, it is genuinely dangerous.

Elderly residents — especially those living alone — are among the most vulnerable during extreme heat events. Many don't have air conditioning. Some do, but won't run it because they're afraid of the electric bill. Others simply don't want to ask for help. That's where the rest of us come in.

If you have an elderly neighbor, a neighbor who lives alone, or anyone you know who might be struggling in this heat — knock on the door. Make the call. Send the text. It takes two minutes and it could matter more than you know.

Here's where to turn for help:

Call 2-1-1. New Jersey's statewide helpline connects residents to cooling centers, energy assistance, and emergency services — 24 hours a day. You can also visit nj211.org to find the nearest cooling center in Burlington, Camden, or Gloucester County.

NJ Aging and Disability Resource Connection: 877-222-3737. This is the dedicated line for seniors and people with disabilities who need outreach, wellness checks, transportation, or help connecting to services. If you're worried about an elderly neighbor and don't know who to call, start here.

NJ DEP Heat Hub: dep.nj.gov/heat-hub-nj lists cooling shelters, heat safety guidance, and emergency resources in real time.

Camden County Code Red Alert: When heat reaches dangerous levels, Camden County activates a Code Red. Anyone experiencing homelessness can call 2-1-1 for transportation to a cooling shelter — no questions asked.

Can't afford your energy bill? Call 2-1-1 or 800-510-3102 (Monday–Friday, 8am–8pm) to speak with a home energy assistance specialist. LIHEAP grants are available for low-income households to help cover cooling costs.

If your air conditioning has stopped working and you need emergency HVAC service, Clean Air Maintenance — a South Jersey-owned HVAC company — serves the region. Reach them directly for service information.

The heat is serious. But South Jersey neighbors look out for each other. That's who we are.

If you know of a local resource or program we missed, send us a message at neighborhoodgazette.town — we'll keep this list updated.

Sources: NJ 2-1-1 Partnership (nj211.org); NJ Division of Aging Services (nj.gov/humanservices/doas); NJ DEP Heat Hub (dep.nj.gov/heat-hub-nj); iHeartMedia Greater Philadelphia Heat Emergency Resources. The Neighborhood Gazette covers South Jersey at neighborhoodgazette.town.