Home Helpers Home Care of Freehold is partnering with the Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) on a new Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) program designed for adults seeking to enter the growing healthcare field.
This 82-hour Certified Home Health Aide (CHHA) training program includes 66 hours of in-class instruction and 16 hours of in-person clinical training to prepare students for careers in home healthcare.
“The CHHA program equips students with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to support patients in their homes,” said Jeremy Dusza, principal of Adult Education for the OCVTS.
Students will learn the core responsibilities of a certified home health aide, including assisting patients with daily routines, managing chronic illness, post-operative care, and supporting individuals with disabilities.
“Our CHHA program is not just about learning skills — it's about preparing compassionate individuals to make a real difference in the lives of others,” Dusza said. “We are proud to offer this pathway to employment and service in such a vital part of the healthcare system.”
Melissa Magabilin, nursing director for Home Helpers, will teach the course.
“I am excited to begin this collaboration between OCVTS and Home Helpers of Freehold,” Magabilin said. “We believe these new classes will be a catalyst for empowering individuals to pursue their passions and make a tangible impact in our community.”
The changing healthcare landscape has created challenges in recruiting qualified healthcare professionals to care for elderly, veteran, and at-risk populations, she said.
“Home Helpers believes in providing highly skilled CHHAs who have the compassion and motivation to assist our clients in their homes, keeping them safe and ensuring their well-being,” Magabilin said. “The CHHA classes will give us the opportunity to train the right candidates and give them the tools they need for success.”
Students will also be trained in compliance with all state and health department protocols to ensure the highest standard of care and safety for both patients and aides. In addition to personal care, certified home health aides may be asked to perform homemaking activities, depending on patient needs and under the supervision of a registered professional nurse.
“These types of creative partnerships are essential in today’s difficult business environment,” said Howard Stein, owner and operator of Home Helpers Home Care of Freehold. “Being able to leverage our professional network to come up with creative solutions like this is our strength.”
Enrollment is now open here for classes that begin Sept. 8. No prior medical experience is required. Program graduates will be well-prepared for certification and immediate employment in the growing home healthcare industry.
To learn more about career opportunities with Home Helpers of Freehold, go here or call 908-975- 0400.
About the Ocean County Vocational Technical School (OCVTS) District
The Ocean County Vocational Technical School is a public school district based in Toms River that provides technical and vocational education to residents of Ocean County. It provides full-time public high school programs and also serves adult students to provide an intensive and immersive educational experience aligned with the current and emerging demands of business, industry, and advanced education.
About Home Helpers Home Care
Since 1997, Home Helpers Home Care has provided exceptional in-home care to seniors and others. With independently owned and operated offices in more than 1,000 communities in the U.S., Home Helpers is supporting the dignity and independence of families they serve.
