Crisis response program now operating in Newark

Since its launch in 2021, the aim of the ARRIVE Together program has been to change how authorities respond to mental health emergencies by pairing specially trained personnel with police officers arriving on the scene. The program is now in operation in Newark. Since June 21, mental health specialists have paired with members of the Newark Police…

Bill addresses mental health in Latino community

Cultural differences and language barriers have made it difficult for some Hispanic residents to find and work with behavioral health providers Latino residents of New Jersey who need mental health services face a range of challenges, including language barriers, lack of access to providers and cultural stigma over seeking help. Now, lawmakers in Washington say…

Coalition Seeks to Amplify Community Voices to Promote Nutritious Food in Schools

Food must nourish the bodies and minds of students, contribute to mental and physical well-being, and help prevent chronic illness—leading to overall success. A groundbreaking initiative, the Coalition for Healthy Food in Newark Schools (HFINS), has been launched to ensure every child in Newark schools receives nutritious meals every day.  The Coalition is hosting community listening…

People experiencing homelessness can now receive mental health services at emergency shelters in New Jersey

People experiencing homelessness in New Jersey will now have easier access to mental health services. On Monday, Governor Phil Murphy signed a law that allows mental health professionals to provide care at shelters. It removes red tape that previously prohibited this. “The stress individuals often face when experiencing homelessness can unfortunately lead to or exacerbate…

Here’s How Newark Plans To Fight Crime This Summer

NEWARK, NJ — Newark police are launching a “summer crime reduction initiative” in 2023. On Thursday, several city officials gathered for a news conference to discuss the upcoming initiative, which will be done as a partnership between the Newark Police Department and the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery. “Addressing crime as a public…

As COVID-19 dollars run out, NJ residents face ‘hunger cliffs’ and food deserts

Struggling New Jersey residents could see their monthly food benefit nearly double under a proposal designed to avoid what advocates describe as a looming “hunger cliff” after federal emergency funding expires in February. Lawmakers unanimously approved a bill Thursday to establish a $95 minimum monthly allotment to participants in SNAP, the state and federally funded…