St. Joseph’s in Toms River has filed an application with the zoning board seeking continued approval for its long-standing transitional housing program for women with children and pregnant women, a program that has operated for nearly three decades on Lexington Avenue.

According to the facility, the application is required due to recent changes in state law and zoning regulations. The request does not involve an expansion or alteration of the existing program, which has historically provided short-term housing to no more than two families at a time.

The transitional housing program has been in operation for approximately 29 years and has functioned with little public attention. Its stated purpose is to offer temporary housing to women and children experiencing housing instability while they work toward permanent living arrangements.

Mayor Daniel T. Rodrick released a statement acknowledging the application but does not have decision-making authority over the matter. The final determination will be made by the Toms River Zoning Board, which is responsible for reviewing the application under applicable land-use laws and zoning standards.

Town officials noted that the zoning process includes public notice and opportunities for community input before a decision is reached. The board will consider whether the program complies with current zoning requirements in light of the updated state regulations.

No changes to the scope, size, or operation of the parish’s housing program are being proposed as part of the application.

The Zoning Board is expected to review the matter at a future public meeting, where a final decision will be made.