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Union County Kicks Off 2022 Season of the Fresh Start Program – Mobile Shower & Laundry Service Unit

Earlier this week, Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams, Commissioners Sergio Granados and Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded kicked off the 2022 season of the Fresh Start Program at The Salvation Army in Elizabeth, located at 1005 East Jersey Street. This program provides shower, laundry and restroom facilities to persons who are in need, along with guidance and resources on additional services that foster self-sufficiency.

“At the time of the launch in 2021, this program was the first mobile service of its kind to be offered in New Jersey,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “There are many people who have fallen on hard times and don’t always have access to a hot shower or hygiene supplies, which can be detrimental to their self-confidence. This mobile unit not only provides them with access to these amenities, but can also make a positive impact on their overall wellbeing, bringing a sense of joy and self-esteem.”

The main focus of Fresh Start is a mobile trailer equipped with bathroom and shower units as well as laundry facilities. It has three non-gender specific shower and bathroom units, one of which is ADA compliant as well as two washing and dryer machines.

“Access to laundry and shower facilities on a regular basis can be a barrier for both low-income and homeless individuals. A hot shower and clean clothes can change a person’s whole demeanor and outlook on life,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. “Between laundry services, and access to a hot shower, the Fresh Start Program also features community providers with resources like housing, employment opportunities and supportive services. These services can help those in need to get back on their feet and onto a path of self-sufficiency. I am so proud to be a part of this initiative.”

In collaboration with community partners, Fresh Start coordinates a wide variety resources within County government including the Division of Social Services, Division of Outreach & Advocacy, Division of Individual & Family Support Services, as well as local non-profit providers. It serves as a portal to a continuum of resources for Union County residents, such as emergency shelter, food, clothing, mental health, housing and employment assistance.

The program will run from now until October, visiting various agency or faith-based organizations (to be announced) throughout Union County.

If an organization is interested in hosting the Union County Fresh Start Mobile Program at their location, a request via email can be sent to freshstart@ucnj.org. For more information, please visit Union County Department of Human Services at https://ucnj.org/dhs/fresh-start.

Become a Lifeguard at Union County’s Ulrich Pool in Rahway River Park this Summer

Union County residents who are looking for a summer job outdoors can apply now to become a lifeguard at Union County’s public swimming pool, the Walter Ulrich Memorial Pool at Rahway River Park, in Rahway.

Any Union County resident age 16 and up can apply for a lifeguard position at the Ulrich Pool.

Training is available for applicants who are not certified lifeguards. Applicants who pass the training and are hired by Union County will have their certification fee waived.

“Lifeguarding is a great summer job experience at any age, and it can be a valuable resume-builder, too,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams.

To receive an application for a lifeguard position, call the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation at 908-868-2725 and leave a voice message with your name, phone number and email address, or send a text message to 908-868-2725.

Union County is Hiring Full Time Emergency Medical Technicians – Apply Today

Job benefits include free training opportunities and HazMat cross-training through the Union County Fire/EMS Academy.

Union County has full time job openings for certified Emergency Medical Technicians. The full time benefits package includes free career development through the Union County Fire/EMS academy.

All applicants must be residents of Union County.

“We are very proud of our EMTs, who work to meet the daily needs and extraordinary demands for life saving services in our community. We are looking forward to meeting the newest members of our emergency services team,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “

Union County’s full time package for new EMTs includes:

• Starting salary of $44,488
• Health and pension benefits
• Overtime, paid time off and sick time
• Uniforms provided
• Free training through the Union County Fire/EMS Academy
• Hazardous materials technician cross-training available

Application forms are available for download on the Union County website at ucnj.org/emsapp.

Completed forms should be returned by email to schmura@ucnj.org.

Senior Artists of Union County are Showcased at Trailside Nature & Science Center

The Union County Senior Citizens’ Art Exhibit, featuring 108 original works in various media, is now on display at the Trailside Nature & Science Center, located in Watchung Reservation at 452 New Providence Road, in Mountainside.

Trailside is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. except for Mondays and holidays, and admission is free of charge.

“We are very proud of our senior artists, both professional and non-professional. The exhibit at Trailside is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a view of the world from their unique perspective,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

The public is invited to visit the exhibit from Thursday, April 28 through Wednesday, May 11. Please note, the exhibit will not be available for view this Sunday, May 1.

The Senior Citizens’ Art Exhibit is an annual event that showcases artworks created by Union County residents, age 60 and above – both professional and non-professional artists. Artworks include a variety of media categories including acrylic painting, oil painting, watercolor, pastel, drawing, photography, digital art, mixed media, sculpture and crafts.

Awards for outstanding entries in each media category for the 2022 Senior Citizens’ Art Exhibit were selected by professional artists Kortez Artise, Joseph Borzotta, and Michael Donato.

The Best in Show by a Professional Artist was awarded to Lynda Dubois-Jackson of Plainfield for her craft titled “Grandma & Friends.” Best in Show by a Non-professional Artist was awarded to Elizabeth Gillin of Westfield for her oil painting titled “Amanda Gorman, My Favorite Poet.”

All first-place artworks will go on to compete at the state level in the 2022 New Jersey Senior Citizens’ Art Show in East Windsor this fall.

The Senior Citizens’ Art Exhibit is presented and coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a division of the Department of Parks and Recreation. For more information, email msturm@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550 weekdays (relay users dial 711).

For more information about the Office, visit ucnj.org/cultural.

Union County’s Favorite Spring Garden Fair and Plant Sale Returns, May 15

The annual Master Gardeners of Union County Spring Garden Fair and Plant Sale will be held on Sunday, May 15, from noon to 4:00 p.m., in the Union County Demonstration Garden at the Trailside Nature and Science Center. Trailside is located in the Watchung Reservation at 452 New Providence Road, in Mountainside.

The Garden Fair is a popular community tradition featuring native plants for sale along with hundreds of other flowering plants and shrubs, vegetable seedlings, educational displays and a chance to explore the many unique and unusual beds of the sprawling Demonstration Garden.

“The Master Gardeners are well known for their many contributions to the Union County community, and the Garden Fair is one of them. We are very proud to welcome this wonderful event back to the Watchung Reservation,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

All proceeds from sales at the Garden Fair go to support community service projects of Master Gardener volunteers, including donations of fresh produce to local food pantries, educational events for youth and adults, programs for people with special needs, and more.

Admission is free and parking is free.  Attendees are advised to bring a wagon or cart to convey their purchases.

Please note that all sales are cash only; credit cards are not accepted. Pets are not permitted in the Demonstration Garden.

In addition to plants for sale, the 2022 Garden Fair will feature displays of Square Foot gardening and hydroponics, a clinic for plant and insect problems, soil test kits for sale, and guidance from the Union County Mosquito Control Bureau.

The Master Gardeners of Union County is a community volunteer organization run by the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County with support from the Commissioner Board. No experience in gardening or horticulture is needed. Prospective volunteers take a training course each spring leading to certification as a Master Gardener.

For more information about the program, contact County Extension Agent Madeline Flahive at mflahive@ucnj.org.

For information about all Extension programs in Union County, including Master Tree Stewards, Environmental Stewards and 4-H youth clubs, visit ucnj.org/rce.

Quick links to all Union County programs related to gardening, sustainability and nature conservation are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

Residents Invited to Join the Union County Team for the 2022 AIDS Walk in Central Park

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to join the Union County team for the 2022 AIDS Walk New York in Central Park on Sunday, May 15, 2022.

The Union County team is organized through the Office of LGBTQ Affairs and the Union County LGBTQ+ Ad Hoc Committee. To join the team and participate in the walk, residents can register at ny.aidswalk.net/UnionCountyNJ.

“We are very proud to join the 2022 AIDS Walk in New York and show our support for Hyacinth and other groups that provide social and health services to those impacted by AIDS, including members of our own Union County community,” said Commissioner Board Chair Rebecca L. Williams.

“Much progress has been made on the treatment and prevention of AIDS over the past 40 years. We are committed to keep moving in the right direction by continuing to advocate for research, health and social services, and education,” said Commissioner Alexander Mirabella.

AIDS Walk New York is the world’s largest and most visible HIV/AIDS fundraising event.

The Union County team will be captained by Patrick Koslecki, a member of the Union County LGBTQ+ Ad Hoc Committee, and organized in support of Hyacinth, a proud partner of the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs.

Hyacinth is New Jersey’s largest and first HIV service provider. For more information visit hyacinth.org, email info@hyacinth.org, or call 732-246-0204.

For more information about the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs visit ucnj.org/lgbtq.

Head Over Heels Brings Love and Laughs to the Union County Performing Arts Center, June 30

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Rahway are proud to present a live performance of the Broadway hit musical Head Over Heels at the Main Stage of the Union County Performing Arts Center, located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway, at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 30.

The performance is part of a series of events hosted by the Commissioner Board in recognition of Pride Month.

“With this special presentation of the musical comedy Head Over Heels, we continue to affirm Union County as a community that values the freedom of every individual to determine their own path in life,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “Laughter clears the air and opens the heart, and we are proud to present Head Over Heels as a highlight of our Pride Month events.”

“We are very proud to include the Main Stage in Union County’s Pride Month celebrations,” said Commissioner Alexander Mirabella. “Preserving this historic gem has been a labor of love for the Commissioner Board and the Rahway community. As a centerpiece of our diverse cultural life, it is a wonderful venue for celebrating equality, dignity and mutual respect.”

“The Rahway City Council and I are thrilled to partner with the County Commissioners to present Head Over Heels as part of the City’s Pride Month activities. Rahway is a richly diverse city whose vibrance is fueled by arts and culture, so offering this high-quality production in celebration of inclusion is, in multiple ways, an expression of who we are as a community,” said Rahway Mayor Raymond A. Giacobbe.

A hilarious, exuberant celebration of love, Head Over Heels follows the escapades of a royal family on an outrageous journey to save their beloved kingdom from extinction, only to discover the key to their realm’s survival lies within each of their own hearts.

You’ll meet a king about to lose his throne, a queen about to lose her inhibitions, and two princesses about to find love. It’s a modern musical fairy tale where once upon a time is right now.

Tickets are free of charge as part of Pride Month 2022 in Union County, but seats must be reserved in advance. To reserve a free spot, visit ucpac.org; do not use any other website.  Attendees can also call the box office at 732-499-8226 to reserve free tickets in advance.

Please note that COVID-19 safety regulations are in effect for all performances at UCPAC. For details visit ucpac.org/covid-19. Those reserving tickets are advised to check for updates prior to arriving at the theatre.

Union County “ASK” Program Brings Senior Services to Local Neighborhoods

Residents seeking information about services for seniors and their care givers can come to Union County’s Aging Services Kiosk events and meet in person with professional staff for guidance on senior programs and resources, including help with filling out applications and forms.

ASK is a program of the Union County Department of Human Services through the Division on Aging and Disability Resources, serving seniors age 60-plus and their care givers.

“ASK is a popular program that brings our staff to local neighborhoods, making it easy and convenient for seniors and their caregivers to meet with a knowledgeable expert in person,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams.

Staff at the ASK events can help seniors and care givers connect with a variety of services including home delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care and support services for caregivers.

Any Union County senior or care giver can visit any ASK event, regardless of their home town.

No appointment or pre-registration is needed.

Two ASK events will take place in May:

• Thursday, May 12: Union Public Library, 1060 Stuyvesant Avenue, Union Township, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Monday, May 16: Clark Public Library, 303 Westfield Avenue, Clark, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

To check for other upcoming ASK events call the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection 1-888-280-8226 toll free or visit the Division online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

ASK updates are also posted on Union County’s social media channels and are frequently carried by local media, both print and digital.

The goal of the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection is to promote wellness, independence, dignity and choice for seniors and their families, in accordance with a statewide initiative adopted by Union County in 2012. It is one of 622 “Area Agencies on Aging” nationwide established under the federal Older Americans Act.

Union County to host donation drive for people of Ukraine

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has uprooted families, injured citizens, and left thousands of Ukrainian refugees without access to basic necessities. To date, nearly 1.5 million Ukrainians have fled their homes, many leaving behind necessary supplies.

To support individuals in need, the Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Prosecutor’s Office have partnered to organize a county-wide donation drive for the people of Ukraine.

Beginning today, a donation box will be available in the lobby of Union County law enforcement agencies, twenty-four locations in all. Members of the public are invited to bring donations of first aid supplies, toiletries, flashlights, blankets, batteries, clothing, shoes, diapers, formula, and more. The program will run for the foreseeable future, as long as continued aid is needed. This donation drive is made possible through a partnership with law enforcement and local Polish and Ukrainian organizations.

“In support of the international effort to aid Ukraine, we encourage Union County residents to help ensure that life-sustaining emergency supplies reach those in desperate need of assistance,” said Union County Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams

“I am immensely grateful to the police Chiefs and Directors of Union County for opening their agencies to this initiative,” said Union County Prosecutor William Daniel. “Police departments are at the heart of every community, positioning them as the perfect location for members of the public to come together in support of the Ukrainian people.”

“As a Polish immigrant, and an active member of the Polish and Ukrainian communities in Union County, I was eager to find a way for the County’s law enforcement community to provide humanitarian aid to the Ukrainian refugees.” said Prosecutor’s Office Detective Dariusz Tokarz, who coordinated the collection event.

Drop-off boxes will be available in the lobbies of police departments in Berkeley Heights, Clark, Cranford, Fanwood, Garwood, Hillside, Kenilworth, Linden, Mountainside, New Providence, Plainfield, Rahway, Roselle, Roselle Park, Scotch Plains, Springfield, Summit, Union, Westfield, Winfield. Additional drop off locations will be available in the lobbies of the Union County Sheriff’s Office, the Union County Police Department, the Kean University Police Department, and the Union County Prosecutor’s Office.

Union County Announces 2022 Queer Empowerment Hour Series

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the 2022 OUT in Union County: Queer Empowerment Hour series with host Micayla Mirabella. The free virtual series, organized by the Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs, begins in April and runs through December 5, 2022. Each conversation will be held on the third Monday of each month (except December) and each hour-long session will begin at 7:00 pm. (update: please note, the series will begin in April).

“It has been four years since the Office of LGBTQ Affairs was created and the Union County Board of County Commissioners continue to remain an ally and advocate for our LGBTQ+ community,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “This office does a wonderful job at hosting a variety of programs and events which aim to educate, start a conversation on LGBTQ+ issues and introduce resources available to our residents. I would like to thank everyone that is involved in the coordination of these efforts.”

The OUT in Union County: Queer Empowerment Hour series explores LGBTQ+ specific topics and offer stories and discussions involving queer folks from different backgrounds and experiences, in an hour-long format that includes some of New Jersey’s most dedicated LGBTQ+ advocates, community leaders, and allies.

Registration is required to join the Zoom session or watch live on the County of Union, New Jersey Facebook page. The schedule and registration links can be found at ucnj.org/lgbtq.

“This series is designed to promote advocacy and engage in rational conversations that can bring people towards understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community,” said Commissioner, Alexander Mirabella, liaison to the Board of Commissioner’s LGBTQ+ Ad Hoc Committee. “Increasing awareness and responding to the community’s needs is a very important step in making sure everyone in our county feels included and heard. I am proud to stand together as one of the most diverse counties in New Jersey and I continue to support these efforts.”

The schedule of sessions is as follows:

• Monday, April 18: Workplace Inclusion (the benefits of acceptance at work)
• Monday, May 16: Intersectionality (a discussion of privilege and discrimination)
• Monday, June 20: We Say Gay (the impact of anti-LGBTQ+ state laws and patchwork legal protections across the country)
• Monday, July 18: Guest Host / Topic TBD
• Monday, August 15: Guest Host / Topic TBD
• Monday, September 19: Family Planning (pathways to LGBTQ+ parenthood)
• Monday, October 17: Policy in LGBTQ+ History (the residual effects of historical laws and policies)
• Monday, November 21: Transgender Awareness (how to be an ally to transgender folks)
• Monday, December 5: HIV/AIDS (overcoming pandemics – end the epidemic and COVID-19)

The Union County Office of LGBTQ Affairs provides a platform for leadership and collaboration to support equality, and serves as a catalyst for advocacy, awareness and action on current and emerging issues that impact the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer individuals.

For more information about the Office of LGBTQ Affairs, contact Danni Newbury at 908-527-4742 or dnewbury@ucnj.org or visit ucnj.org/lgbtq.

Spring into Multi-Generational Fun at Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center

The Union County Board of Commissioners invites residents to enjoy the spring season with a new schedule of outdoor programs for children, families and seniors at the Trailside Nature and Science Center. Trailside is located in Union County’s Watchung Reservation nature preserve, at 452 New Providence Avenue in Mountainside. Ample free parking is available on site.

“Trailside is a wonderful resource for Union County parents and caregivers seeking fun activities that enrich our children with an appreciation for our natural heritage. Please come by and visit soon,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams.

Pre-registration is required for scheduled programs at Trailside. The online registration link is available at the Trailside website, ucnj.org/trailside. This secure registration link includes all recreation programs offered by Union County; scroll down for the Trailside events.

Trailside’s exhibit areas are also open to visitors on a walk-in basis, free of charge, from Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For details visit ucnj.org/trailside.

The spring schedule begins mid-March, with programming for the following age groups:

Toddler Time, for adults with children ages three and younger:  The series meets on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Participants will look for all the colors of the rainbow on a nature walk, become nest detectives to learn how different birds make their nests, go in search for bugs under rocks and logs and participate in a flower scavenger hunt in search of blossoms of all colors, shapes and sizes.

Back to Nature, for adults with children ages four and older: The series meets on Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registrants will see how real maple syrup is made, discover the importance of animal camouflage, find out why trees are terrific, go in search of backyard bugs and learn to lead a group on a nature hike.

Trailside Family Evenings (moonlight walks), for adults with children ages four and older: A Pink Moon Hike will take place on April 14 and a Flower Moon Hike will take place on May 12. Both walks will take place from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Participants will explore the Watchung Reservation by the light of the full moon and learn about the wildlife that comes out after dark.

Nature Walks for Seniors, for ages 55 and older (free of charge): These guided walks meet on Fridays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Each walk is led by a Trailside naturalist and highlights a different topic in the Watchung Reservation. Participants will learn to identify common tree species, find out about the fast-flying peregrine falcon, enjoy a spring wildflower walk and discover the rich history of the Deserted Village.

A fee of $5 for Union County residents ($6 for out-of-county) applies to the three child-adult programs. The senior walks are free of charge.

For more information about upcoming activities for children, families and seniors visit ucnj.org/trailside or call 908-789-3670.

For quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities, including the Falcon Cam, visit The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connect.

Applications Now Available For Union County’s “Empowering Our Youth” Summer Employment Program

The Union County Board of County Commissioners announced the launch of the “Empowering Our Youth” Summer Employment Program. Now open to applicants, this program is run by the Union County Division of Youth Services and is offered to County residents ages 16 through 24 years old.

“This program is in line with the Union County Board of County Commissioners’ vision of empowering the minds of our youngest residents and ensuring they have the opportunities to reach their full potential,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams. “Empowering Our Youth” is another way we can connect our residents to the programs they need for a successful future. I encourage those who are qualified to apply and take advantage of this wonderful program.”

This employment program is offering both full-time and part-time positions at various locations at $15 an hour. The “Empowering Our Youth” Summer Employment Program can provide uniforms, transportation, and childcare to those looking for summer jobs.

“I am very excited to be a part of this program, which was designed to provide our youth residents with the work exposure, experience and skills they will need for a competitive workforce,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “When this “Empowering Our Youth” initiative was first crafted, I wanted to make sure it benefited both the youth population as well as the employers in various job sectors. Our residents can gain knowledge in literacy, financial and other training skills that are provided through our Union County supportive skills courses, which, in turn, benefits employers by having a more than qualified staff. This is also at no-cost to the employer relative to the employee’s salaries which are part of this program. It really is a win-win for all involved, including our County Commissioner Board, who continues to work to improve the quality of life for all residents.”

The deadline to apply is Thursday, May 19, 2022. Applicants looking to view eligibility requirements or wishing to apply can do so by visiting ucnj.org/youth. Information can also be found by visiting the following locations in person:

• DYS Youth Forward: 1143-1145 E. Jersey St, 4th Floor, Elizabeth
• One-Stop Center: 921 Elizabeth Ave, Elizabeth
• American Job Center: 200 W. 2nd St # 4, Plainfield

The Union County Division of Youth Services operates within the Union County Department of Human Services. This program is sponsored by the Union County Board of County Commissioners, the Union County Workforce Development Board through the American Job Center.

For more information or if you have any questions regarding the “Empowering Our Youth” Summer Employment Program, please call Jasmine Sowah at 908-558-2523.

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