Summer 2024 Newsletter
Expanding Horizons: NJ 211's Health Equity Grant
In the ongoing battle against health disparities, collaboration proves to be our strongest weapon. New Jersey's commitment to health equity reaches new heights with the expansion of NJ 211's Health Equity initiative, in partnership with the NJ Department of Health. This initiative targets the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 and other health disparities, especially among vulnerable communities, including those aged 65 and above. Since its launch in 2021, the initiative has been a lifeline for over 7,100 Essex County residents, offering vital referrals to resources that address social determinants of health.
Assistance with housing, utilities, food and transportation are just a few of the resources provided. Now, recognizing its success, the project extends its reach to twenty high-need municipalities across the state and now includes Camden City, Newark, East Orange, Irvington, Bayonne, Hoboken, Jersey City, North Bergen, Union City, West New York, Edison, New Brunswick, Perth Amboy, Woodbridge, Trenton, Passaic City, Paterson, Franklin Township, Elizabeth, and Plainfield. The expansion entails ramped-up outreach events, follow-up calls to seniors, and the introduction of text messaging services to keep residents informed about health events, including COVID-19 vaccination sites. This proactive approach aims to ensure that communities are not just aware but empowered to access essential services.
Why the focus on social determinants of health? Because they are the building blocks of well-being, influencing access to healthcare, socioeconomic status, education, and more. By addressing these factors, initiatives like NJ 211's Health Equity project aim to break down barriers and empower individuals with resources to lead healthier lives.
In essence, this expansion is a testament to the power of collaboration and collective action. By working together, we can create a future where every New Jersey resident has the opportunity to thrive.
Statewide Marketing Campaign to Boost 211 Awareness
Launched at the end of March, the NJ 211 marketing campaign, funded by the Department of Children and Families, is on a mission to spread awareness about 211 and its services through June of 2025. Creative assets will be strategically placed throughout the state, popping up on billboards, bus shelters, train stations, and even pharmacies. But that's not all—this campaign will harness the power of social media, radio, and television to reach even more people.
In addition to raising awareness for residents, the campaign serves a dual purpose: encouraging agencies to add or update their listings in the NJ 211 social service directory. Doing so ensures that the information is accurate, enabling individuals in need to easily locate and access the specific services they require, fostering a stronger, more interconnected support network across the state.
As the campaign gains momentum, NJ 211 stands poised to make a profound impact on communities statewide, ensuring that no one is left in the dark when it comes to accessing vital resources and assistance.
A Public Awareness Toolkit has been created and can be found on our Media page, empowering agencies and partners throughout the state to join the effort in spreading the word about NJ 211 and its invaluable services. Agencies who are interested in updating their listing or getting listed can visit the Service Provider area of our website.
Connecting Communities Across the State
Over the past three months, NJ 211 has been on the move, actively engaging with communities across New Jersey. From high school events to health fairs, and the Nurture NJ Family Festival hosted by First Lady Tammy Murphy in Elizabeth, NJ 211 has been on the frontline, ensuring residents are aware of services available to them.
At NJ 211, our mission is simple: to connect individuals and families with the resources that help. Whether it's assistance with utility bills, access to supplemental food until the next paycheck, or finding reliable childcare, NJ 211 is the starting point to finding help. Our presence at local events allows us to reach out directly to residents, bridging the gap between the services they need and where to find them.
Attending high school events has been particularly rewarding, as it allows us to connect with students and families who may be navigating various challenges. By providing information about NJ 211's services, we empower individuals to seek the support they need, ensuring no one falls through the cracks.
The recent participation at First Lady Tammy Murphy’s Nurture NJ Family Festival in Elizabeth was a highlight for NJ 211. This event brought together families from diverse backgrounds. Our bilingual specialists were able to translate often complex information into simple next steps.
As we continue our outreach efforts, we encourage residents to reach out to NJ 211 for assistance. Whether you spot us at your local event or simply need support, don't hesitate to connect with us. Remember, if you need help, start here.
If you see us in your community, stop by and say hi!
Database staff connecting with families at First Lady Tammy Murphy’s Nurture NJ Family Festival in Elizabeth.
Homeless Hotline staff educating students about available services at Sussex County VoTech’s Game of Life event.
Database and Communications staff educated advocates and professionals at the Department of Children and Families Partnership for Families Quarterly Meeting.
Support for Caregivers Raising Children
In New Jersey, the Kinship Program stands as a beacon of support for caregivers who selflessly step up to care for their friends’ or relatives' children. Whether it's grandparents raising grandchildren or a close family friend taking on caregiving responsibilities, the Kinship Program provides vital assistance to ensure the well-being of these children and the stability of their caregivers' households.
What can the Kinship Program offer? From financial assistance to access to essential services, caregivers can find support to help them navigate the challenges of raising children. Financial aid can assist with necessities like housing, food, and clothing, easing the burden on caregivers who may face financial strain.
NJ 211 is instrumental in connecting people to the Kinship Program. Whether it is a caller who is unfamiliar with the program or a caregiver who is fulfilling their annual renewal requirement each year in July. Caregivers can dial 211 to connect with a specialist who will assist them with Kinship renewal, as well as other needs that they may have. Through financial aid, access to services, and ongoing assistance, the Kinship Program provides a lifeline to caregivers, empowering them to provide a loving and stable environment for the children in their care.
For caregivers in need of support or assistance with the Kinship Program, dial 211.