Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions.
Quick answers to common questions about our housing programs, eligibility, donations, and how you can get involved with Urbni.
23 questions in 8 topics
About Urbni
What is Urbni?
Urbni is a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing communities and preserving affordable housing. We restore vacant and abandoned properties to create stable, supportive housing for individuals in need — including veterans, seniors, people in recovery, and those transitioning out of homelessness.
Where is Urbni located?
Urbni is headquartered at 200 South St, New Providence, New Jersey 07974, in Union County.
Contact Urbni →What does the name Urbni stand for?
Urbni stands for Urban Renewal – Bettering Neighborhood Impact.
How does Urbni revitalize properties?
Urbni acquires vacant, abandoned, and tax-delinquent properties and restores them into housing that meets the specific needs of each neighborhood — such as veteran housing, sober living, transitional housing, and senior housing. We work with local government, service providers, volunteers, and residents so each project fits the long-term needs of the community.
About Urbni →Housing Programs
What housing programs does Urbni offer?
Urbni operates four housing programs: Healing Homes (sober living for people in recovery), Homes for Heroes (housing for U.S. military veterans), Second Start Homes (transitional housing for individuals and families facing homelessness or housing insecurity), and Grace Homes (affordable housing for seniors).
Explore our programs →Are meals or medical services included?
Urbni provides housing and supportive services, but we do not operate as a medical facility. Some locations may offer community meals or connect residents with local food programs, and we often partner with outside organizations to assist with medical, mental health, or employment needs.
How are your homes maintained?
Urbni properties are regularly maintained by our housing staff and local partners. We work to ensure homes are clean, safe, accessible, and meet housing code standards.
Where are your homes located?
Our homes are located in neighborhoods chosen for access to public transportation, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Availability varies by program and demand — please contact us for current information.
Ask about availability →Eligibility and Applications
Who qualifies for your housing programs?
Each program serves a specific population. Healing Homes is for individuals in recovery from substance use who have completed a treatment program and are ready for the next step. Homes for Heroes supports U.S. military veterans facing housing instability or transitioning back to civilian life. Second Start serves individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and need a structured, supportive environment. Grace Homes is for seniors aged 62 and older living on fixed or limited incomes. If you’re unsure which program fits your situation, our team can help you find the right path.
How much does it cost to live in one of the homes?
Our housing is subsidized through donations and grants, which allows us to keep rent affordable and income-based. Exact costs vary by program and location, and we work to ensure no eligible resident is turned away due to financial hardship.
How long can someone stay in transitional housing like Second Start or Healing Homes?
Stay duration depends on each resident’s goals and progress. Most transitional housing stays last between 6 and 18 months, with regular check-ins. Our goal is to prepare residents for stable, independent living as soon as they’re ready.
Do you accept referrals?
Yes. We work with treatment centers, shelters, the VA, social workers, and other agencies. If you’re a provider looking to refer someone, please contact our team.
Contact our team →Donations
What kinds of donations does Urbni accept?
Urbni accepts monetary gifts (one-time or monthly), donated homes, donated land, and food donations including non-perishable items, fresh produce, and prepared meals.
Ways to give →How are monetary donations used?
Financial gifts support the renovation of abandoned homes, utility costs for residents, case management services, and the expansion of our housing programs.
Donate money →Can I donate food?
Yes. We accept non-perishable food and fresh produce for residents of our homes, and local businesses and restaurants are welcome to donate catered meals for events or weekly meal plans. Drop-off and pick-up options are available — submit the food donation form to schedule.
Donate food →Property Donations
Can I donate a house to Urbni?
Yes. If you own a vacant, inherited, or unused property, you can submit a property donation inquiry. A member of our team will reach out to discuss the property and walk you through the donation process.
Donate a home →Can I donate land?
Yes. Whether it’s a single lot or a larger parcel, donated land can become the foundation for future affordable housing. Individual and corporate landholders can submit a land donation inquiry and our team will follow up.
Donate land →Are property donations tax-deductible?
Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances. Urbni cannot provide legal or tax advice — please consult your own tax advisor about any donation.
Volunteering
Can I volunteer?
Absolutely. We welcome volunteers for home restoration projects, resident support, donation drives, meals and events, and administrative help. Fill out the volunteer interest form and a team member will reach out with current opportunities based on your skills, interests, and availability.
Volunteer with Urbni →Who can volunteer?
Anyone with a heart to serve. We welcome individuals ages 16 and up (or with adult supervision), students looking for service hours, churches, nonprofits, school clubs, skilled tradespeople and contractors, and businesses organizing group volunteer days.
Community Partnerships
How can my business or organization partner with Urbni?
We invite local businesses, corporations, civic groups, faith communities, educational institutions, and philanthropic organizations to partner with us — through project sponsorships, sponsoring a home renovation, in-kind services, fundraisers, service-learning projects, or a custom collaboration.
Community involvement →Contact and General Questions
How do I contact Urbni?
Call 1-800-769-4006, email support@urbni.org, or use the contact form on our website. Our office is at 200 South St, New Providence, NJ 07974.
Contact us →I’m not sure which program fits my situation. Who should I talk to?
Reach out to our team by phone, email, or the contact form. We’ll listen to your situation and help you find the right path.
Contact us →Still have questions?
We’re here to help — let’s talk.
If you’re unsure which program fits your situation, or want to learn more about giving or volunteering, reach out to our team.

