New Jersey homeowners can submit buyout applications online, in English or Spanish, through the Blue Acres program from the Department of Environmental Protection. Blue Acres will approve buyout requests based on need and funding eligibility requirements.

New Jersey homeowners who are in flood prone areas and are interested in elevating their home to reduce their risk of flooding can apply for the Mitigation Assistance Program (MAP). MAP helps homeowners cover construction costs for property mitigation against flooding damage, including home elevation. MAP may also provide temporary rental assistance during construction. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

New Jersey's Emergency Rescue Mortgage Assistance (ERMA) program provides financial assistance for eligible homeowners who have experienced a significant decrease of income or increase of expenses due to COVID-19 and have been unable to remain current with their mortgage payments.

Eligible homeowners can apply for up to $75,000 per household to cover mortgage reinstatement assistance and other eligible housing related costs, including delinquent property taxes and HOA dues.

Cold and flu season is in full swing. New Jerseyans are encouraged to take precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy.

Basic strategies to prevent the spread of viruses include staying up to date on your vaccinations, washing your hands often, coughing or sneezing into your elbow, and staying home if you're feeling or are sick.

Check with your health care provider to learn how best to protect yourself and your family from the flu, COVID-19, and RSV, especially if you have a weakened immune system.

Find locations offering COVID-19 vaccines on vaccines.gov. Visit NJ.gov/health/vaccines for more information. Free COVID-19 test kits are available from the federal government.