Category: Public Info

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services are proud to announce a month-long series of events and initiatives in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. These efforts are designed to support mental wellness and provide residents with access to valuable resources and information about County services. Highlights include a virtual webinar on the ARRIVE Together program, a Community Mental Health Resource Fair, and a countywide call to wear green on Mental Health Action Day to show solidarity, support and raise awareness for mental health.

“Mental health is public health, and supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of our residents is a priority for Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Mental health plays a vital role in every aspect of our lives, from our relationships to our ability to thrive in our communities, yet many people who are struggling often feel alone or unsure of where to turn for help. That’s why we’re committed to not only raising awareness, but also making sure our residents know that support is available and help is within reach.”

Union County invites residents to a special virtual webinar focused on the ARRIVE Together program, a statewide initiative that pairs mental health professionals with law enforcement officers to respond to mental health crises with compassion and care. The discussion will feature panelists from the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, RWJBH Trinitas Regional Medical Center, and local law enforcement. The webinar will take place on Wednesday, May 14th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and will be hosted on Zoom and livestreamed via Facebook Live. Registration details can be found at ucnj.org/mental-health.

Residents are also encouraged to attend the Community Mental Health Resource Fair on Saturday, May 17^th at 11:30 a.m. at the Roselle Memorial Library (104 West 4th Ave, Roselle, NJ). The fair will provide an opportunity to connect with local organizations, gather wellness tools, and learn about mental health services available for individuals and families.

As part of Mental Health Action Day on Thursday, May 15, residents are encouraged to wear green to raise awareness and show support for mental health. Mental health challenges are more common than many realize. 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, and 1 in 6 youth aged 6 to 17 are affected by a mental health condition. You are not alone. Help is available, and healing is possible. For local mental health services or 24/7 support, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8 or scan the QR code on the Mental Health Action Day flyer.

“We want everyone in Union County to know they are supported and that resources are available no matter where they are in their mental health journey,” said Debbie-Ann Anderson, Director of Human Services. “Whether someone is seeking help for the first time or managing a long-term condition, they deserve to feel seen and heard. Help is also available if you are looking for resources to support a friend or family member. Together, we can continue to build a strong, compassionate community where mental wellness is prioritized and no one feels alone.”

The Office of Behavioral Health and Substance Misuse advises anyone needing support, information, or resources to reach out to NJ Mental Health Cares, New Jersey’s behavioral health information and referral service system. Calls are answered by trained staff who provide emotional support, assessment of presenting problems, and information and referral. This is a free, confidential service with multilingual translation available. If you or a loved one is facing mental health related distress, thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use crisis, please reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, for 24/7 support. The Lifeline provides free confidential emotional support to individuals in crisis or emotional distress. To learn more about events and programs offered through the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new Sensory Friendly Movie Series, with the first-ever screening set for Friday, May 23^rd, featuring Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile. This series is a new initiative funded through the Union County Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund and expands upon the County’s commitment to inclusive arts and recreation programming.

“Union County is proud to lead the way in expanding inclusive programming that meets the needs of all residents, and we’re thrilled to bring our first sensory-friendly movie experience to the Hamilton Stage,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This new sensory-friendly movie series represents more than just a night at the theater — it’s about pride, joy, and equal access to experiences that many families have gone without for far too long. We’ve seen the impact of our sensory-friendly live performances, and now we’re taking that vision even further by expanding that accessibility through film.”

The May 23^rd screening will take place at the Hamilton Stage, located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., and the film begins at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $5 per person.

This sensory-friendly showing is tailored for children and adults with autism and other sensory sensitivities. Audience accommodations include lowered volume, dimmed house lights throughout the film, and a relaxed environment where attendees are welcome to move, vocalize, and engage freely.

“I’m proud to announce this new initiative, which marks a major step forward in our mission to build a more inclusive Union County and reinforces our commitment to making arts and recreation truly accessible for all families,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Chair of the Open Space Trust Fund. “We’ve heard from so many parents who’ve never been able to take their children to a movie theater due to sensory challenges — and that’s exactly why we created this. Families deserve to enjoy these experiences without fear of being judged or excluded. It’s about removing barriers, embracing inclusion, and creating lasting memories that every child and parent deserves. And this is just the beginning — we’re planning three more sensory-friendly movie nights in 2025 to continue expanding access and joy across our communities.”

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile tells the encouraging story of a singing crocodile who helps those around him find their voice. It’s an uplifting message that aligns well with the mission of Sensory Friendly Theater.

For more information about Sensory Friendly Theater and to purchase tickets for Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile, visit www.ucpac.org/sensory-friendly or call the Union County Performing Arts Center box office at (732) 499-8226.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the continuation of its 2025 recycling events this May. Residents are encouraged to participate by securely disposing of personal documents, scrap metals, and household hazardous items during the scheduled monthly events. This countywide initiative promotes eco-friendly practices by collaborating with residents to keep Union County clean, safe, and sustainable.

“Union County’s recycling programs provide an easy and convenient way to prevent identity theft, conserve valuable resources, and protect the environment,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “I urge residents to inspect their homes and vehicles for unwanted or potentially hazardous items and to utilize these free recycling services.”

Union County offers free mobile paper shredding events from March to October, allowing residents to securely dispose of personal documents onsite. The events are held from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or until trucks reach capacity. Residents are invited to the following shredding events in May:

• Friday, May 16th: Hillside Pool Parking Lot, 1209 Central Avenue, Hillside
• Sunday, May 18th: New Providence Community Pool Parking Lot, 1378 Springfield Avenue, New Providence

The shredding events are intended for personal and sensitive documents only. Residents can recycle magazines, junk mail, and other papers through their municipal recycling program. Please remove all bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other paraphernalia prior to the event (staples are allowed). Pre-shredded, damp, or wet paper will not be accepted.

Union County’s Scrap Metal Recycling Program also continues in May, providing residents the opportunity to responsibly recycle various metal items, including refrigerators (with doors removed), metal cabinets, appliances, bicycles, aluminum scrap, and even air conditioners. The next scrap metal event of the season will take place on Saturday, May 17th, from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at two convenient locations:

• Cranford: Emergency Services Building, 151 Kenilworth Boulevard, Kenilworth
• Rahway: Rahway River Park (follow Park Drive, Rahway off St. George’s Avenue to service yard across from swimming pool)

Union County’s next Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) event will take place on Sunday, June 1st, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will be held at Union County VoTech, located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. At these events, residents can properly dispose of a variety of household chemicals for proper recycling. These items include, but are not limited to, oil-based finishes, motor oil, gasoline, propane tanks, pool chemicals, pesticides, fluorescent lightbulbs, asbestos, and more. Latex (water-based) paint (wall paint) will not be accepted. Residents are advised to dry latex paint out at home using commercial paint hardener, sand, kitty litter, or sawdust. Once hardened, it can be thrown in your household trash. All Union County recycling events are contact-free and drive-up only.  Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads materials from their trunks.

For a complete schedule and more information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, please visit ucnj.org/recycle/ or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. Residents may also contact their municipal recycling coordinator for more details about recycling in their community. The free Recycle Coach mobile app provides a handy way to find out what items are included in curbside recycling programs and drop-off sites in Union County. The app provides up-to-date information on both countywide and local recycling programs. Quick links to all environmental programs and activities hosted by Union County are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the return of the much-anticipated 2025 Union County Women Means Business Summit (UCWMB). The event will take place on Wednesday, May 28th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Galloping Hill Golf Course, located at 3 Golf Drive in Kenilworth.

“This yearly seminar is an invaluable opportunity for professional women, managers, and aspiring entrepreneurs to come together, strengthen their networks, and equip themselves with the essential tools for success in our ever-changing world,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “I encourage all women seeking to transform their business and grow personally to sign up and not miss this opportunity to learn from our knowledgeable presenters. I can’t wait to see you there!”

Now in its 11th installment, the UCWMB Summit is a yearly conference dedicated to women that offers participants a truly empowering experience. Attendees will enjoy breakfast and lunch, choose from four engaging breakout sessions, and be inspired by this year’s keynote speaker, Dean Meghan Rehbein of Douglass Residential College at Rutgers University.

Dr. Meghan Rehbein serves as the eleventh Dean of Douglass College, a role she has held since July 2022. As Dean, she has championed bold strategic priorities, shaped a curriculum centered on leadership development, and strengthened alignment between Douglass and Rutgers University’s Academic Master Plan.

Dr. Rehbein first joined Douglass in 2018, most recently serving as Associate Dean for Strategic Initiatives, where she led innovative collaborations with a special emphasis on communications and sustainability. Prior to her tenure at Rutgers, she led the record-breaking conclusion of the Power of 100 Years Campaign and served as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Georgian Court University.

With over two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, higher education, and human services, Dr. Rehbein is widely recognized for her transformative approach to institutional growth and mission-driven leadership. Her research focuses on gender and leadership development in the nonprofit sector. She is a contributing author to Embracing Ambition: Empowering Women to Step Out, Be Seen, & Lead—a compelling collection highlighting how adversity can shape authentic leadership identities. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Hampshire College, a master’s degree from Sacred Heart University, and an Ed.D. from Stockton University.

The 2025 Union County Women Mean Business Summit is a program organized by the Union County Department of Economic Development through the Office on Women. This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors JCT Solutions, Atlantic Health, United Airlines, ConnectOne Bank, L’Oreal, and Kemper Sports.

Throughout the day, there will also be open networking opportunities for attendees to make meaningful professional connections. Admission to the 2025 UCWMB Summit is $55 per person. Don’t miss out! Explore this year’s exciting breakout sessions, meet our dynamic speakers, and secure your spot today at ucnj.org/ucwmb.

For more information about this event, please contact Jennifer Erdos, from the Union County Office on Women at (908)527-4216 or email jerdos@ucnj.org.

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi announces that vote-by-mail ballots for the June 10^th Primary Election are now available at the County Clerk’s offices in Westfield and Elizabeth during each office’s regular working hours.

“Offering flexible options like vote-by-mail makes participating in our democracy more accessible for everyone. The goal is to make voting as easy and secure as possible,” said Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi.

Voters can download the vote-by-mail application and bring it with them to the office, or they can apply by mail. Working hours at each office are listed below:

Elizabeth Office: Union County Courthouse, Election Division

2 Broad Street, Room 113

Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Westfield Office: Fraser Building

300 North Avenue East

Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

For more information on voting in Union County elections, please visit www.unioncountyvotes.com or call 908-527-4996.

The Union County Board of Elections reminds residents that Tuesday, May 20th is the deadline for voter registration for the 2025 Primary Election. Election Day will be on Tuesday, June 10th.

“There are multiple options for residents to register to vote in time for the upcoming election,” said Union County Board of Elections Administrator, Nicole DiRado. “Those eligible to vote can apply online, by mail or in person in order to register.”

The Union County Board of Elections office is open Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., to accept Voter Registration Forms. On the May 20th voter registration deadline, the Board of Elections Office will remain open until 9:00 p.m. to receive forms.

Municipal Clerk offices can also provide and accept voter registration forms.

Voter registration forms in both English and Spanish can also be downloaded from the Union County Board of Elections website at ucnj.org/boe/voter-registration-information. Be sure to print and sign the form before returning.

To register online, eligible residents should visit: voter.svrs.nj.gov/register and follow the Online Voter Registration instructions. Your County Commissioner of Registration will notify you if your application is accepted. If it is not accepted, you will be notified on how to complete and/or correct the application.

You can register to vote if:

• You are a United States citizen
• You will be 18 years old by the next election
• You will be a resident of the State and county for 30 days before the election
• You are NOT currently serving a sentence because of a felony conviction
• As of March 17, 2020, persons currently on parole or probation are entitled to vote.

To receive a voter registration form by mail, call the Board of Elections at 908-527-4123.

Back-to-back events in June highlight inclusivity, celebration, and community unity

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to celebrate Pride Month by hosting their annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony and the return of last year’s successful Pride 5K and Fun Color Run, two major events this June that will uplift the LGBTQ+ community and bring residents together in support of equality, visibility, and joy.

Union County will kick off the Pride Month festivities with their annual LGBTQ+ Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, June 2nd at 1:00 p.m. on the front steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth. This symbolic event will feature powerful speeches from LGBTQ+ advocates and allies, Amanda Girardi, Ferlie Almonte, and Dave D’Amico.

Amanda Girardi, owner of Sweet n Fancy Emporium in Cranford, received national attention and overwhelming support after facing boycotts for proudly displaying a Pride flag. Ferlie Almonte, international speaker, author, and 2023 Ms. NJ Senior America, is known for her workshops on resilience, reinvention, and empowerment. Dave D’Amico, Chief Investigator with the Middlesex County Department of Corrections and co-chair of the NJ LGBTQ Law Enforcement Liaison Program, is a nationally recognized advocate and educator on bias crimes and LGBTQ+ inclusion in law enforcement.

The celebration continues on Saturday, June 7th, beginning at 8:00 a.m. with Union County’s second annual LGBTQ+ Pride 5K and Fun Color Run at Oak Ridge Park in Clark. Participants of all ages and backgrounds are invited to walk, run, or roll in this vibrant celebration of Pride. The 5K is professionally timed and certified, while the Fun Color Run offers a playful experience where participants are doused with eco-friendly colored powder throughout the course. An opt-out option is available during registration for those who prefer to skip the color.

Registration for the 5K is $25 per person in advance and $30 on the day of the event. The non-competitive Fun Run is $15 per person. All registrants will receive a Pride 5K T-shirt while supplies last.

To register, please visit ucnj.org/lgbtq.

Both events are designed to promote awareness and unity, while also offering fun, education, and reflection. Resource tables, family-friendly activities, and giveaways will be available at the 5K. For questions, contact Robert Charkowsky, LGBTQ Affairs Coordinator, at lgbtq@ucnj.org or by calling 908-527-4742.

Press release updated with time adjustment for flag raising

The Union County Board of County Commissioners welcomes all residents with disabilities and special needs and their families to participate in our first “Paint in the Park” event of the season. This free event will take place on Saturday, May 17th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and will be held across from the Warinanco Sports Center, located at Warinanco Park, 1 Park Drive in Roselle.

“Our Paint in the Park events are truly a delightful experience for our residents with disabilities and special needs. They provide a safe and accommodating space where participants can express their ideas and emotions through art, all while enjoying the beautiful and inspirational landscapes of our County parks,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Join us for a fun and relaxing morning of painting and discovering new talents. I hope to see you there.”

Union County’s “Paint in the Park” events offer participants the unique opportunity to express their artistic abilities amidst the natural scenery of Warinanco Park. 

“This initiative aligns with one of Union County’s core missions: fostering a community that is both accessible and welcoming to all, instilling pride, and peace of mind, in residents that choose to work, live, and raise their families here,” said Union County Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “We invite our special needs community and friends to participate in this life-enriching experience.”

“Paint in the Park” is hosted each year by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs under the Division of Individual and Family Support Services of the Union County Department of Human Services.

“Paint in the Park” is free to attend, but registration is required. To register, please visit  ucnj.org/opdsn-reg.

For more information about “Paint in the Park” or other programs or events hosted by the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, please visit ucnj.org/dhs/opdsn or call the Office at 908-527-4781.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is excited to announce that beginning Thursday, May 15th, Farmers Market vouchers will be available for eligible Union County seniors. Each eligible senior can obtain a $40 e-benefit card to purchase “Jersey Fresh” fruits, vegetables, and herbs at participating Farmers Markets.

“Challenges like fixed incomes, limited resources, and rising costs can impact our senior community’s ability to access quality, nutritious food. Through this program, we aim to ensure fresh, nutrient-rich foods sourced from our local farmers are available to those in need,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “I encourage all seniors who meet the requirements to take advantage of this opportunity and apply.”

To be eligible, seniors must be 60 years of age or older. A single person’s monthly income may not exceed $2,413 per month, and a married couple’s combined income may not exceed $3,261 per month.

Eligible seniors can apply by calling the Union County Division on Aging at 908-527-4870 or 888-280-8226, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on or after May 15, 2025. A limited number of vouchers are available, and applications will be evaluated on a “first-come, first-served” basis.

“Our Farmers Markets not only offer a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, but also serve as a popular gathering place for our community. This voucher program gives our seniors an easy and convenient way to socialize and engage with their community while accessing healthy food and supporting local agriculture,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging.

For more information about the Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, or any other senior services provided by the Division on Aging and Disability Resource in the Union County Department of Human Services, call 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly presents a collection of artworks from local artists in celebration of Haitian Heritage Month at the Commissioner’s Gallery. The gallery is located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth. The exhibit is free and open to the public Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., throughout the entire month of May.

“One of the aspects that makes Union County so special is our culturally diverse community; it is truly one of a kind. This May, we are bringing residents the opportunity to see in person the passion and creativity displayed by these talented artists, who have brilliantly captured the spirit and vibrancy of Haitian culture,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “We hope you join us in celebrating and learning more about the rich art, history, and culture of Haiti, as we bring light to the important role the Haitian community has played in shaping ours today.”

This exhibit is part of a larger Countywide celebration of Haitian Heritage Month, which includes a flag raising that will take place on Friday, May 2nd, at 12:00 p.m. on the front steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.

Included in the exhibit are Tamar Antoine, Roberto Benoit, Steven Darius, Hans Lundy, and Haenley Pierre. The collection of artworks on display includes digital collage, painting, photography, written word, and 3D design.

Tamar Antoine was born in Canada and proudly carries her Haitian heritage. During her young adult years, she discovered a deep passion for self-expression and began to step into her voice. It was during this formative time that she also uncovered her love for writing. Rooted in culture and fueled by creativity, Tamar’s journey as a writer and poet reflects her cultural pride, personal growth, and the transformative power of finding and embracing one’s voice.

Roberto Benoit is a creative artist whose work blends passion, social justice, and storytelling. From an early age, he was drawn to the world of visual art through cartoons and multimedia, while his father, a social worker, instilled in him a deep commitment to community service. Skilled in photography, videography, and design, Roberto’s art merges these talents with his focus on social justice. Using digital collage, he creates vibrant, imaginative worlds that amplify the voices of marginalized communities and offer a hopeful perspective.

Steven “Stevo” Darius is a photographer turned 3D artist. What began as simply taking pictures has evolved into a mastery of 3D animation, allowing him to craft realities from the depths of his imagination. His art is about creating moments that could only exist in dreams.

Hans Lundy was born in Port-au Prince, Haiti and his family came to the United States of America in 1999. He trained and was mentored by the post-modern figurative artist Williams Coronado. After years of perfecting his painting style and finding his voice using the media, He has ventured out into murals and learning mural, graffiti techniques, theories and applied it into his work.

Haenley Pierre is a 1st-generation Haitian-American artist. Haenley works in a variety of different art forms, but is mainly an oil painter and a digital illustrator. Haenley believes artwork is a medium that can be used to communicate a myriad of concepts, one of which is highlighting human consciousness and condition through art advocacy. She’s a keen advocate for representation and expanding the presence of POC in art. As a contemporary artist, her work is heavily influenced by her Haitian-American culture and present-day social justice issues.

“As we prepare to celebrate our second Haitian Heritage Month, we are excited to showcase even more local artists this year, bringing new voices and perspectives of the Haitian experience to Union County,” said Union County Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “As a public servant of Haitian descent, I am proud to be on the side of history that is creating new traditions that recognize Haitian and Haitian Americans’ stories, experiences, and cultural influences, and how they are interwoven with the foundation of this great community.”

The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates the exhibits displayed at the Commissioners Gallery. 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.