Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that vote-by-mail ballots for the General Election on November 4th will be mailed out, beginning on Friday, September 19th and continuing through the week of September 22nd.
Ballots will be sent in alphabetical order by town name, which will be noted on the Clerk’s website, as well as the Union County Votes app. Clerk Rajoppi advises voters to look for an oversized bright yellow envelope in their mail, which contains their ballot.
“I urge voters to open their ballot when they receive it,” Clerk Rajoppi said, “Vote it and return it, either putting it in the mail or a secure election drop box. All ballots received are secured until they are read on election day,” she added.
For more information about mail-in ballots, early voting, or election deadlines, visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or contact the office at 908-527-4996 or email ucvote@ucnj.org.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is honored to extend an invitation to the annual POW/MIA Remembrance Day flag raising on September 19th at 11:00am on the steps of the Union County Courthouse, 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.
“POW/MIA Remembrance Day is a powerful reminder of the bravery of the heroes who never came home,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “It’s a day to honor their courage and recognize the loved ones who still wait with hope. By honoring them, we show that their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Union County Manager Edward Oatman will begin the ceremony with an introduction, and Chairwoman Leon will serve as the Master of Ceremonies. The Presentation of Colors will be led by the Honor Guard from the Union County Sheriff’s Department, Union County Prosecutor’s Office, Elizabeth Police Department and Elizabeth Fire Department. Union County Commander, VFW Bobby Jeans will give the invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Union County Sheriff Peter Corvelli.
The Missing Man Table ceremony, led by Union County Commissioner Vice Chairman Joseph Bodek, honors the brave men and women who never returned home, reminding us they are with us in spirit. Each item on the table holds meaning: the round table shows never-ending concern, the white cloth their pure motives, the rose and ribbon our love and determination, the lemon and salt their bitter fate and tears, the candle and Bible our hope and faith, the inverted glass their absence, and the empty chair the seat that remains unclaimed. It is a solemn reminder that America will never forget those still missing.
“Seeing this ceremony in person is something I urge everyone to witness,” said Union County Commissioner Alexander Mirabella, Liaison to the Veterans Affairs Committee. “We all share the responsibility to remember our veterans and the sacrifices they made.”
The ceremony will conclude with a rifle salute, TAPS, and a rendition of “God Bless America” by Thomas Jefferson Arts Academy student Vanessa Cardoza.
For more information on POW/MIA Remembrance Day, please call Geoff Smith with the Office of Veteran’s Services at 908-527-4918.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that applications for the 2026 Union County HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant program are now available for Union County non-profit organizations, individual artists and scholars.
“The arts, history, and education all play a powerful role in shaping who we are as a community,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Through the HEART Grant, we’ve seen these recipients inspire others in meaningful ways that spark creativity, preserve history, and strengthen connections across Union County.”
The HEART program serves as a catalyst for Union County’s non-profit organizations, artists and scholars, enhancing their ability to connect residents with programs and activities. Along with civic groups and cultural organizations, past HEART Grant recipients have included individual poets, writers, historians, painters, photographers, musicians, dancers and more. Organizations can request a grant of up to $2,500, with a 25% cash match required for any amount over $1,000. Individuals can request up to $1,000, with no cash match required.
All projects funded under the HEART Grant Program must directly benefit Union County residents and increase appreciation for Union County history, the arts and humanities, demonstrating that cultural assets are a vital part of community life, education and well-being, economic development and cultural heritage tourism. Activities must take place between January 1 and December 31, 2026 to be considered for funding. Applicants must be Union County residents or Union County based non-profit organizations with programs taking place in Union County.
“Cultural assets are not only sources of pride, but also essential resources that enrich our quality of life and keep the spirit of Union County alive for future generations,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Advisory Board.
The application deadline for first-time applicants is Thursday, October 23, 2025. The full application must be completed by Thursday, October 30, 2025. The application is completed online, as hard copies are no longer accepted. To access the grant portal, please visit: https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=ucnj
The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates the HEART grant. For further information about this and other programs and services related to the arts and history in Union County, contact the Office at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; telephone (908) 558-2550; or e-mail: culturalinfo@ucnj.org . NJ Relay users dial 711.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce a dynamic lineup of events for Hispanic Heritage Month, taking place September 15 through October 15, 2025. The celebration will honor the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of residents with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
“Hispanic Heritage Month is more than a commemoration—it’s a celebration of the journeys and traditions that shaped us,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “As the first Hispanic woman to serve on this Board, and as the daughter of Cuban immigrants, I carry those stories with me every day. These events give us a chance not only to honor our culture but to share it proudly with our neighbors, inspiring the next generation to see themselves reflected in Union County’s history and future.”
The month kicks off with the annual Hispanic Heritage Month Flag Raising on Tuesday, September 16 at 5:00 p.m. on the steps of the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth.
Throughout the month, residents can also enjoy:
• Art Exhibit: Roberto de la Selva September 15th through October 17th – with gallery hours from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Commissioners Gallery, 6th Floor Union County Administration Building 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth
• Sensory-Friendly Movie Night – Encanto Friday, September 26 at 7:00 p.m. Hamilton Stage, 360 Hamilton Street, Rahway This special showing is adapted for a sensory-friendly audience, ensuring an inclusive experience for children and families. (Presented in partnership with the Union County Performing Arts Center).
• Family Fun Day & Hispanic Heritage Awards Saturday, October 4 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Warinanco Park, One Park Drive, Roselle A free, family-friendly celebration featuring live musical entertainment, delicious food, cultural performances, inflatable bounce houses, a photo booth, face painting, bubble play, arts & crafts, coloring activities, and interactive games for all ages. We will also be presenting awards to this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month recipients.
• Hispanic Leadership Panel Tuesday, October 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Union College of Union County, Roy Smith Theater 1033 Springfield Avenue, Cranford Panel discussion to begin at 12:30 p.m.
“As someone who is half Salvadoran, I’ve seen how culture and family traditions can shape identity and create strength,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados. “Hispanic Heritage Month is about more than looking back—it’s about creating spaces where young people see that their heritage is valued and their voices matter. These events remind us that our diversity is one of Union County’s greatest strengths.”
Hispanic Heritage Month runs annually from September 15th through October 15th. For the full calendar of events, visit ucnj.org/hhm.
The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates exhibits at the Commissioners Gallery. For more information about arts and history programs in Union County, contact the Office at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; call (908) 558-2550; or email culturalinfo@ucnj.org. NJ Relay users dial 711. For questions about Hispanic Heritage Month activities, contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator, at (908) 527-4388 or Judith.Guest@ucnj.org.
For details on Union County parks and activities, download the Explore Union County app in your app store or at ucnj.org/explore, visit ucnj.org/parks-recreation, or see the events calendar at ucnj.org/calendar.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the Department of Human Services and Atlantic Health System, is proud to recognize National Recovery Month (NRM) this September by hosting a free, public webinar designed to educate, inspire, and support residents on the path to recovery, titled: “A Recovery Journey: Addiction Recovery and the Family System.”
“National Recovery Month reminds us that recovery is not only possible, but achievable with the right support, resources, and encouragement,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “Union County is proud to stand beside our residents, lifting the stigma around substance misuse and showing that every step forward on the path to recovery is a step toward a stronger, healthier community.”
The webinar will take place on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will be livestreamed via Zoom and Facebook Live.
This interactive program will feature speakers with lived experience who will share their personal journeys of recovery and answer questions from the listening audience. The event is part of Union County’s ongoing commitment to breaking down stigma, promoting behavioral health awareness, and providing resources for individuals and families impacted by substance misuse.
“In Union County, we believe in supporting people at every stage of their recovery journey. This webinar is a chance to hear directly from individuals who have faced challenges and found hope through recovery,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. “Their stories inspire us all to continue building a community where access to care, compassion, and opportunity are within everyone’s reach.”
Residents are encouraged to register in advance to receive the Zoom link. The webinar will also be available for viewing on the Union County Facebook page. To register, scan the event QR code or visit https://ucnj.org/nr-zoom/ .
For more information, contact Gene Tavera, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Coordinator with the Union County Department of Human Services, at (908) 527-4844 or gene.tavera@ucnj.org.
Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi is pleased to announce that the Clerk’s Westfield office will be offering one-stop vote-by-mail (VBM) voting this Saturday, September 13th, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., ahead of the September 16th Clark Special School Board Election. The Westfield office is located at 300 North Avenue East in Westfield.
“We encourage all eligible voters to participate and have their voices heard in this election,” said Clerk Rajoppi. “This is a great opportunity for those who prefer to avoid the crowds on election day and want to cast their votes efficiently and securely.”
The vote-by-mail (VBM) option provides residents with an accessible and convenient way to cast their ballots ahead of the upcoming election. Voters can take advantage of this opportunity to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot, complete it, and submit it all in one visit.
For more information about vote-by-mail voting or other election-related inquiries, please contact the Union County Clerk’s office at 908-527-4787 or ucnj.org/county-clerk.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services are proud to announce the expansion of home-delivered meal services for eligible residents through Meals on Wheels of Union County. This long-standing program provides not only nutritious meals, but also regular wellness checks that support the health, independence, and dignity of seniors and vulnerable residents across the county.
“Meals on Wheels is more than just a meal delivery service — it is a lifeline for many in our community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Behind every meal is a message of care and respect. For families, this program provides peace of mind knowing their loved ones are receiving both nourishment and a friendly check-in. For seniors, it means staying connected and supported in the comfort of their own homes.”
The program is designed for Union County residents aged 60 years or older who may have difficulty preparing meals due to illness, injury, or medical conditions, or who face barriers to shopping for groceries. By providing both food and a caring presence, Meals on Wheels helps reduce isolation while meeting essential nutritional needs.
The service also reflects Union County’s broader commitment to health and wellness. By partnering with Meals on Wheels, the County ensures residents have consistent access to balanced meals, which helps prevent malnutrition, hospitalizations, and other health challenges that can come with aging or limited mobility.
“This program goes beyond food — it delivers independence,” said Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “For many residents, a hot meal delivered with compassion makes the difference between isolation and connection. As Commissioners, we recognize that supporting our seniors means investing in their ability to live with dignity, security, and community. We encourage residents to take advantage of this service or to spread the word to neighbors who may need it.”
Union County residents 60 years of age or older who are interested in Meals on Wheels can call (908) 486-5100, Monday through Friday, to inquire about eligibility and enrollment.
For more information about Union County programs and services for seniors, visit www.ucnj.org/aging or call the Union County Division on Aging at 908-527-4870.
The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Union County Department of Public Safety are thrilled to be hosting their second annual Back to School Health Fair on Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10:00am to 2:00pm at Warinanco Sports Center in Roselle. The Back to School Health Fair, held in partnership with RWJUH Rahway and Trinitas Regional Medical Center provides free health services, screenings, resources, and giveaways for all Union County individuals and families to prepare themselves for the upcoming school year.
“We know that the start of the school year can bring both excitement and challenges, and our goal is to ease that transition by connecting families to these services in one convenient location. Back-to-school season should be a time when every family has the resources they need to feel safe and healthy,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Our goal is for every child to walk into their classroom ready to learn, and every parent to feel confident knowing their family’s health and well-being are supported.”
The event will offer a wide range of free health and wellness services for the community. Attendees can receive vaccines from the Union County Family Clinic (for those eligible), free dental cleanings from Overlook Medical Center – Atlantic Health System, and health insurance guidance from HolaDoctor and Wellpoint. PROCEED, Inc. and Prevention Links will also be on-site to provide home and utility assistance, as well as family support services. In addition, Bridgeway and NAMI NJ will offer mental health screenings and resources, while the Partnership of Maternal and Child Health will share important maternal health information.
RWJUH Rahway and Trinitas will conduct preventive screenings for blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, and stroke risk. Nurses will be available to provide blood lead level testing, and Registered Environmental Health Specialists from the Union County Office of Health Management will use XRF Analyzers to detect lead in everyday objects. There will also be brief demonstrations at 11:00am, 12:00pm, and 1:00pm on nutrition education (RWJ), physical therapy (RWJ PT), and emergency preparedness (Union County MRC & RWJ Wound Care). Together, these services ensure that residents have access to vital preventive care and resources, all in one place.
For more information about the Back to School Health Fair, visit www.ucnj.org/wellness or contact the Union County Department of Public Safety at 908-654-9816.
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to join two free webinars that focus on suicide prevention. The programs will be available on Zoom and Facebook Live on September 8 and September 10, 2025, and are presented by the Union County Department of Human Services, Division of Individual and Family Support Services and the Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse.
“These events serve as a reminder that no one is ever truly alone,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M Leon. “National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month calls us to act. Even a small act of compassion can save a life. When we take the time to check in on one another and learn how to connect people to resources, we create a stronger, healthier community.”
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reports that suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. In 2023, 49,316 Americans died by suicide – equaling approximately 1 death every 11 minutes. Additionally, many adults think about suicide or make an attempt. Data shows that 12.8 million individuals have seriously thought about suicide; 3.7 million made a plan, and 1.5 million attempted suicide. 91% of all adults surveyed in the United States think suicide can be prevented at least some of the time. Suicide Prevention Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and normalize seeking help. These webinars are designed to provide residents with knowledge and tools that can make a difference.
The first session, Make the Right Call, will take place on Monday, September 8, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Led by the Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) and the NJ Mental Health Players, this webinar will give residents a closer look at what happens when someone calls the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Through role-play and interactive demonstrations, the NJ Mental Health Players will show how the hotline works in real time while helping to reduce stigma and encourage more open conversations about suicide prevention.
The second session, Life, Connected: How Relationships and Environments Prevent Suicide, will be held on Wednesday, September 10, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and facilitated by Caring Contact. This discussion will highlight how connection plays a key role in keeping people safe. Rather than focusing only on crisis response, the session will explore everyday protective factors, like meaningful relationships and supportive environments, that reduce the risk of suicide. Participants will walk away with practical ways to strengthen those connections at home, at work, and in their community.
“Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “These webinars are about giving residents the knowledge and confidence to recognize the signs, start difficult conversations, and connect people to support. When we come together as a community with that purpose, we build a stronger safety net where no one has to face their struggles alone.”
Residents can register for both webinars by visiting https://ucnj.org/mental-health/ If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having suicidal thoughts, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988. Calls are free, confidential, and answered by trained crisis counselors in multiple languages.
For more information about Union County Human Services programs and activities, visit ucnj.org/dhs or call the DHS Action Line at 908-677-5405.
