The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free help to Essex County Medicare beneficiaries who have problems with, or questions about, their health insurance. Volunteer SHIP Counselors are trained to assist people with Medicare questions including providing information on Medigap plans, Part D coverage, claims, and benefits. Volunteers also answer questions regarding Medicaid and low-income assistance programs.

We are in need of volunteers who are fluent in Spanish. A 40-hour virtual training is required with a minimum of 2-4 hours per week for a 1 year of commitment. Volunteers need access to a computer and basic computer knowledge.

SHIP is a statewide program administered in Essex County by Jewish Family Service of MetroWest NJ (JFS) and RSVP. It is funded by the New Jersey Department of Human Services with financial assistance through a grant from the U.S. Administration for Community Living. The Essex County SHIP is run through RSVP, an AmeriCorps Seniors program, and only open to volunteers ages 55+ and willing to submit to a background check.

To volunteer, contact Brittany Bynum at [email protected] or 973-637-1764.