Category: Public Info

Nearly 100 federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies from six states will come together to participate in a joint recruitment event on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 from 10:00am to 4:00pm at Kean University’s Harwood Arena, located at 1000 Morris Avenue in Union, New Jersey.

In early 2023, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, partnering with Kean University, hosted a similar law enforcement recruitment event that held over 50 agencies, and saw over 1,000 participants, and resulted in hundreds of hires at various agencies around the state. The full extent of the recruitment event’s success is unmeasurable, as agency hires are still being seen. This year’s event is slated to host over 100 participating law enforcement agencies looking to recruit the next generation of officers.

“The Union County Prosecutor’s Office is pleased to once again partner with Kean University for the Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair,” Union County Prosecutor William Daniel stated. “This is more than just recruitment; it is an opportunity to build a police force that truly reflects the communities we serve. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or someone considering a career shift, come explore the many paths available in law enforcement.”

 “Law enforcement is evolving. We’re seeking passionate individuals from all backgrounds who are committed to building trust and respect with the communities they serve. This recruitment fair is your chance to connect with different agencies, learn about their unique missions, and discover how your skills and experiences can contribute to a more equitable future”, Union County Prosecutor’s Office Chief of Detectives Dr. Harvey Barnwell states. “The fair is open to everyone interested in a career in law enforcement, regardless of experience or education level. Come explore your options, ask questions, and start your journey towards a meaningful career that makes a positive impact.”

Kean University President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., said he is proud to partner with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office on this important event.

“This partnership with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office is one way Kean University serves as an anchor institution for the region, supporting programs that benefit our neighboring communities,” Repollet said. “The University has an outstanding criminal justice program, and our many graduates are serving at all levels of law enforcement with distinction. This recruitment fair is an excellent opportunity for Kean’s students and members of the community to find meaningful careers in public service.”

“Choosing a career in law enforcement provides a meaningful way for our residents to positively impact their community, while also enjoying fair compensation and benefits,” said Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Following the success of last year’s event with a substantial turnout, the continued demand for officers emphasizes the importance of such events. This joint recruitment event offers residents a valuable opportunity to explore different agencies, find their fit, and consider the diverse possibilities within law enforcement. I encourage all potential candidates to attend and explore the rewarding aspects this profession can provide.”

“This recruitment fair will give everyone interested in a career in law enforcement the opportunity to learn more about this career path,” said Senate President Nick Scutari. “The many agencies participating will offer job opportunities to join in the new generation of officers with good jobs that provide a vital public service to our communities.”

Senator Joseph Cryan emphasized his support for those interested in a career in law enforcement. “As a former Union County Sheriff, I am proud of the professionalism that exists among our local law enforcement officials. Any young individual seeking a rewarding career in public service would be well-served to explore their interests at the Union County Prosecutors Office Recruitment Fair.”

“The upcoming recruitment fair provides a unique opportunity for those interested in a career in law enforcement to discover available opportunities to protect and serve our community,” said Senator Jon Bramnick. “Becoming a law enforcement officer is a tremendous responsibility with making a positive impact on our communities, and I highly encourage anyone with an interest in the field to attend.”

Law enforcement partners from federal, state, county, and municipal agencies will be in attendance. Applicants are encouraged to dress professionally and bring their resumes.

Agencies that will be in attendance include: United States Secret Service – Newark Field Office, Pentagon Force Protection, Office of Homeland Security Investigations, FBI – Newark Field Office, ATF – Newark, DEA, IRS, Federal Air Marshal Service, Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office, Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, Essex County Corrections, Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Prince William County Police, Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office, John Stamler Police Academy, Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, Morris County Prosecutor’s Office, Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, New Jersey State Police, New Jersey State Parole Board, New Jersey State Human Services Police, New Jersey Department of Corrections, New Jersey Office of Homeland Security & Preparedness, New Jersey & New York Port Authority Police, New York State Department of Corrections & Community Supervision, New York State Police, Division on NJ Civil Rights, NJ Division of Criminal Justice, New Jersey Transit Police, Palisades Interstate Parkway Police Department, Rutgers Police Department,  Princeton University Police, Stevens Institute of Technology, NJIT Police Department, Monmouth University Police Department,  Kean University Police Department, Delaware State Police, Delaware Department of Corrections, Clark Police Department, New Providence Police Department, Berkeley Heights Police Department, Linden Police Department, Union Police Department, North Wildwood Police Department, Roselle Police Department, Westfield Police Department, Rahway Police Department, Hillside Police Department, Union County Police Department, Kenilworth Police Department, Roselle Park Police Department, Scotch Plains Police Department, West Orange Police Department, Millburn Police Department, Newark Police Department, South Brunswick Police Department, Avalon Police Department, Jackson Police Department, Pennsauken Police Department, Sea Isle City Police Department, Hillsborough Police Department, Sea Girt Police Department, Franklin Township Police Department, South Orange Police Department, Rochester Police Department, Hoboken Police Department, Plainfield Police Department, Union County Sheriff’s Office, Irvington Police Department, Maplewood Police Department, Orange Police Department, Fort Lee Police Department, East Orange Police Department, Little Falls Police Department, Sayreville Police Department, Summit Police Department, Jersey City Police Department, Alexandria Police Department – VA, and New York Police Department.

In addition, individuals seeking a career as assistant prosecutors, lab technicians, administrators, and clerks will have the opportunity to discuss those careers and be advised of the process necessary to pursue those positions.

The Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair is jointly hosted by Kean University and the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, and with the support of the Union County Board of County Commissioners, New Jersey Senate President Nicholas Scutari, New Jersey Senators Joseph Cryan and Jon Bramnick, Elizabeth Branch NAACP President Shawn McClain, and New Jersey NOBLE President Jiles Ship.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the 102 Cavalry Family Readiness Group, is pleased to announce the initiation of a special collection drive to support military women from our area currently serving overseas.

“In honoring Women’s History Month, we wanted to do something to extend our gratitude and support to the courageous military women serving overseas,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Through this collection drive, we hope to send a message of appreciation, reminding them that their sacrifices do not go unnoticed.”

The collection, running through March 30^th aims to gather essential items that will bring comfort and convenience to our brave military women.

The diverse range of items sought includes Midol, Liquid IV, lip balm, feminine wipes, chewing gum, flavored teas, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, face sunscreen, stress balls, fidget boxes, hydration masks, spa socks (fuzzy, cozy socks), over-the-counter UTI medications (example: Azo), over-the-counter yeast infection medication (example: Monistat), throat lozenges/cough drops, small manicure implement sets (nail files and clippers), card games (example: Uno), and tree-shaped air fresheners.

Drop-off locations and hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.:

Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth, NJ

Union County Social Services, 342 Westminster Avenue, Elizabeth

Union County Public Safety Building, 300 North Avenue East, Westfield

Union Engineering Building, 2325 South Avenue, Scotch Plains

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

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in partnership with the American Job Center, invite all healthcare professionals seeking new career opportunities to the Healthcare Job Fair on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at Warinanco Sports Center.

“We are not just offering jobs, we are creating pathways for individuals to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of our communities,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This event not only provides a platform for healthcare professionals to explore career opportunities, but also reflects our commitment to encouraging growth and innovation within the healthcare industry.”

The Healthcare Job Fair is scheduled for Wednesday, March 20th, 2024, from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle.  The fair will feature a range of roles, including job opportunities for Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Certified Medical Assistants, Certified Medication Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants, and Emergency Medical Technicians. Representatives from the following companies will be present:

• Horizon Healthcare Staffing
• NYC Administration for Children’s Services
• Atlantic Health Systems
• Atlantic Private Care Services
• Confident Care Group
• Instacare Home Health Solutions
• Propel America
• Curalta Foot + Ankle
• Community Access Unlimited
• Hudson Milestones
• CareFinders
• Jefferson Park Ministries

In a commitment to making the recruitment process effective and accessible, the event will provide on-the-spot interviews. Applicants are asked to bring a copy of their resume, as they will have the chance to participate directly with representatives from each organization in person.

“Given the staggering 1.8 million job openings in the healthcare industry each year, it’s crucial to link skilled professionals with job opportunities,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Workforce Development Board. “The Healthcare Job Fair serves as a bridge between employers and our local workforce. By addressing the healthcare sector’s needs, we strengthen our industry, grow job opportunities, and make our community stronger.”

Registration is required on www.ucnj.org/dhs/job-fairs/. For employers who wish to participate in the Healthcare Job Fair, please call Carolina Marin at (908) 527-4373 or email ajcbusinessteam@ucnj.org.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce the latest installment of its virtual dialogue series for the LGBTQ+ community, OUT in Union County: Queer Empowerment Hour with host Micayla Mirabella. The upcoming discussion hour is titled:  Unveiling Hidden Narratives – Celebrating the Trails and Triumphs of Queer Women in History, and is scheduled for March 13^th from 7:00pm-8:00pm. The virtual conversation is part of a monthly series. It covers a range of LGBTQ+-related themes, stories, and experiences to inform, educate, and connect the community.

“By creating a space where everyone’s voice is valued and respected, we empower individuals to embrace their true selves without fear or judgment,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Through the use of technology like Zoom, facilitating connections between people who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to meet become possible.”

Queer Empowerment Hour, launched in 2020, offers an hour-long virtual conversation diving deep into LGBTQ+ topics. It features engaging stories and discussions involving queer individuals from diverse backgrounds. The series is open to everyone, promoting inclusivity and understanding in our community.

To join this informative discussion, please register at ucnj.org/lgbtq.

The upcoming OUT in Union County: Queer Empowerment Hour session starts at 7:00 p.m. on March 13th and will be live-streamed on the County of Union Facebook page. Questions can be asked via Zoom or in the Facebook comments.

“Embracing the stories of queer women in history throughout National Women’s Month is a powerful celebration of LGBTQ+ resilience and contribution,” said Commissioner Al Mirabella, liaison to the Union County LGBTQ+ Ad Hoc Committee. “This focus empowers individuals to find strength in their identities.”

Queer Empowerment Hour is presented by the Union County Board of County Commissioners in collaboration with the Union County Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs. For more information about the Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs, please visit ucnj.org/lgbtq.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services would like to extend warm congratulations to Union County employee Ms. Shioban Dominguez for being selected by the NJ Child Support Council with the 2023 County Welfare Agency (CWA) Worker of the Year Award. Ms. Dominguez was presented the award on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the Annual NJ CS Conference Luncheon, in the presence of colleagues, family, and friends.

“The Union County Commissioners and I extend our congratulations to Ms. Shioban Dominguez for her extraordinary work that has proven invaluable to the Union County community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Her efforts and assistance to the Human Services Department in collaborating with clients, co-workers, and our residents have greatly enhanced the department’s quality, and her inspiring work ethic promises a continued positive impact in the future.”

Shioban Dominguez has been an invaluable asset to the Child Support and Paternity (CSP) Unit at Union County since she joined in 2011. She was specifically selected to work in the CSP Unit’s UIFSA-IVD Intergovernmental Unit due to her exceptional skills and qualities, which made her the perfect candidate for the role. Shioban has consistently demonstrated excellent performance throughout her tenure, showcasing her ability to learn and adapt to process changes and work responsibilities. Notably, she has gone above and beyond in her duties, providing exceptional guidance to clients during intricate processes and taking on additional responsibilities during busy or short-staffed periods. Her team members and supervisors have described her as a team player, motivated and caring, and a person who consistently brings insightful suggestions in an effort to improve the department and better assist the families of Union County.

“Ms. Dominguez’s well-deserved recognition as the NJ Child Support Council’s 2023 County Welfare Agency Worker of the Year reflects her dedication and exceptional contributions to our Union County community,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Her commitment, adaptability, and genuine care for our residents make her a true asset to our Social Services team and the Union County Board of County Commissioners congratulates her and takes great pride in her achievements.”

Union County’s Social Services Division recognizes the importance of providing the necessary financial and emotional support to custodial parents through the Child Support and Paternity Unit. Their efforts are geared towards promoting the productivity and well-being of children and families, thereby contributing to the overall development of our society.

The Social Services Division is a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. The Department employs over 700 people and serves more than half of the country’s population.

To learn more about the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services would like to extend warm congratulations to Union County employee Ms. Shioban Dominguez for being selected by the NJ Child Support Council with the 2023 County Welfare Agency (CWA) Worker of the Year Award. Ms. Dominguez was presented the award on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the Annual NJ CS Conference Luncheon, in the presence of colleagues, family, and friends.

“The Union County Commissioners and I extend our congratulations to Ms. Shioban Dominguez for her extraordinary work that has proven invaluable to the Union County community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Her efforts and assistance to the Human Services Department in collaborating with clients, co-workers, and our residents have greatly enhanced the department’s quality, and her inspiring work ethic promises a continued positive impact in the future.”

Shioban Dominguez has been an invaluable asset to the Child Support and Paternity (CSP) Unit at Union County since she joined in 2011. She was specifically selected to work in the CSP Unit’s UIFSA-IVD Intergovernmental Unit due to her exceptional skills and qualities, which made her the perfect candidate for the role. Shioban has consistently demonstrated excellent performance throughout her tenure, showcasing her ability to learn and adapt to process changes and work responsibilities. Notably, she has gone above and beyond in her duties, providing exceptional guidance to clients during intricate processes and taking on additional responsibilities during busy or short-staffed periods. Her team members and supervisors have described her as a team player, motivated and caring, and a person who consistently brings insightful suggestions in an effort to improve the department and better assist the families of Union County.

“Ms. Dominguez’s well-deserved recognition as the NJ Child Support Council’s 2023 County Welfare Agency Worker of the Year reflects her dedication and exceptional contributions to our Union County community,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Her commitment, adaptability, and genuine care for our residents make her a true asset to our Social Services team and the Union County Board of County Commissioners congratulates her and takes great pride in her achievements.”

Union County’s Social Services Division recognizes the importance of providing the necessary financial and emotional support to custodial parents through the Child Support and Paternity Unit. Their efforts are geared towards promoting the productivity and well-being of children and families, thereby contributing to the overall development of our society.

The Social Services Division is a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. The Department employs over 700 people and serves more than half of the country’s population.

To learn more about the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like announce that Union County’s “Weekend of Shredding” will kick off the 2024 shredding season on Saturday, March 23^rd and Sunday, March 24^th.  

“We are thrilled to bring back Union County’s ‘Weekend of Shredding’ for 2024, providing a valuable service for residents to securely dispose of sensitive documents,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This initiative not only aids in decluttering homes but contributes to our collective efforts in making Union County a cleaner and more environmentally conscious place to live. I hope everyone will join us and continue to work together for a greener future.”

The two events will take place on the campus of the Union County Vocational Technical School, which is located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. Both events will take place in the West Hall (Police Academy) lot.  There will be ample signage at both events to direct residents to the shredding site.

Each shredding event begins at 9:00 a.m. and will conclude promptly at 1:00 p.m., rain or shine, but may finish earlier if the shredding trucks fill up to capacity.

Participants are reminded pre-shredded, damp, or wet paper will not be accepted. Bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other paraphernalia should be removed prior to arrival at the shredding site.

These events are drive-up only and contact-free. Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads their papers, which are shredded on site in a mobile shredding truck.

Union County’s free shedding events are intended for personal, sensitive documents only. Residents can recycle magazines, junk mail and other waste paper with their municipal recycling program. For information, contact the https://ucnj.org/recycling/municipal-recycling-coordinators/.  The shredding events are for residentially generated paper only.  Businesses and business documents will not be accepted for shredding at the events.  If there is a business that needs guidance on how to shred documents, they can contact the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning via the online form at  ucnj.org/recycle.

For the complete 2024 paper shredding schedule and information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, visit ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. For the latest news and updates on all municipal and countywide recycling programs in Union County, download the free Recycle Coach app. More information is available at ucnj.org/recycling/recycle-coach-app.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at ucnj.org/green-connection. The mobile paper shredding program is paid for through Recycling Enhancement Act Grant funds, which are applied for by Union County and received from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

On Monday, Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, along with Commissioners Alexander Mirabella, Sergio Granados, and Joseph Bodek, gathered for a constructive roundtable discussion alongside Deputy County Manager, Amy Wagner. The meeting focused on fostering collaboration with community nonprofit organizations, which was led by Union County Department of Human Services Director, Debbie-Ann Anderson, and her dedicated team.

“Building bridges between government officials and nonprofit organizations is crucial for the holistic development of our community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This partnership allows us to pool our expertise and resources to better serve the residents of Union County.”

The Union County Department of Human Services provides a wide range of support programs and social services, with its mission to empower all Union County individuals, families and communities to achieve their highest level of self-sufficiency and quality of life using an accessible, inclusive and comprehensive approach to service delivery and care.

The roundtable’s primary objective was to highlight the critical integration, impact, and interconnectedness within the human services delivery system throughout the county. Participants emphasized the importance of community partnerships in delivering essential services to positively impact Union County residents.

The collaboration demonstrates a commitment by Union County and local nonprofits to work together in addressing the diverse needs of the community. Through open dialogue, the leaders intend to streamline efforts, share resources, and enhance the overall effectiveness of human services programs.

“Through these discussions, the Union County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services are actively working towards creating a more cohesive and impactful approach,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Our shared commitment to guiding principles, and streamlining of services exemplifies a collective effort to enhance the well-being of our community.”

With a human-centered approach these discussions focused on basic needs for residents with shared resources.  Collaborations develop into building blocks that will streamline services moving individuals and families to self-sufficiency.                                                      

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the upcoming events and resources available through the Union County Department of Human Services by visiting the official website at www.ucnj.org/dhs. Additionally, individuals seeking information or assistance can contact the Action Line at 908-677-5405.

On Wednesday, January 24, 2024, The Union County Board of County Commissioners through our Department of Human Services kicked off our annual Point-In-Time (PIT) Count and Survey of the Homeless population throughout the cities in our jurisdiction.

The PIT, also known as NJCounts, takes place every January and asks for a count of unsheltered and sheltered individuals experiencing homelessness. This program ran through Wednesday, January 31^st, is mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and for the tenth year, Monarch Housing Associates coordinated the statewide effort, along with Continuums of Care (CoC).  The County of Union has been the lead Collaborative for the CoC since 1998.

“The annual Point-in-Time Count is not just a census; it is a compass guiding our commitment to understanding and addressing homelessness,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “By capturing a snapshot of homelessness on a specific night each year, we illuminate the urgent needs of our community, fostering compassion, awareness, and targeted intervention. It is a vital annual occurrence, which helps us navigate the complex terrain of homelessness, ensuring that no one is left unseen or unheard in our pursuit of a compassionate and inclusive Union County, where everyone gets the help they deserve.”

A total of seven (7) teams comprised of Union County staff, government officials and local nonprofit organizations banded together in smaller groups of 4-6 people during a seven (7) day period in the afternoon and late evening hours. Smaller groups surveyed people throughout the County who “sleep outdoors, in parks, alleys, under bridges, or places not meant for human habitation, such as cars, abandoned buildings, garages, or other structures without electricity or water.”

The County’s 2024 unsheltered count kicked-off at 3:00 a.m. on January 24^th with thirty-five (35) volunteers gathering at the Union County Division of Social Services in Elizabeth and Plainfield.  The teams surveyed the areas of Elizabeth, Plainfield, Summit, Roselle, Roselle Park, Garwood, Linden, Rahway, Hillside and Union.  The four (4) groups that went identified nine (9) unsheltered homeless persons that were further assessed for services at the Union County DHS/Division of Social Services office, including overnight placement through the County’s Code Blue Initiative. 

Total number of homeless persons engaged between the large street outreach event on January 24^th & the seven (7) day street outreach events:

• 30 in Elizabeth
• 2 in Linden
• 2 in Roselle
• 19 in Plainfield
• 13 in Summit

A grand total of 66 homeless individuals were engaged through our street outreach efforts.

“Through the collective efforts of our dedicated teams, volunteers set out on a seven-day task to survey the homeless population, shedding light on the challenges faced by those who sleep outdoors,” Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “This collaborative initiative is a testament to our strong commitment to providing immediate support, resources, and compassion to every individual facing homelessness in Union County. Together, we work for a community where the most vulnerable are not just counted but cared for, ensuring that the path to a brighter future is accessible for all.”

The street outreach teams also provided materials for the homeless, including coats, toiletries, scarves, hats, gloves, sandwiches (provided by Be the Change from Kean University), warm chili, and hot chocolate/coffee. Unfortunately, there was an incident involving a homeless male at the County’s Division of Social Services office in Elizabeth. The individual consumed heroin, leading to an overdose. Swift action was taken by a team member from the County’s Division of Social Services and the County Police. Officer Richard Rijos promptly administered two doses of Narcan, successfully reviving the gentleman and restoring normal breathing. The rapid response by the County’s Division of Social Services and County Police averted what could have been a tragic outcome. Following the prompt intervention, the individual, was then breathing on his own, was transported to Trinitas Regional Medical Center.

On Wednesday, January 24^th, service fairs were held by the City of Plainfield, Plainfield Action Services at the Plainfield Performing Arts Center and the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless at the Mickey Walker Center in Elizabeth. Plainfield’s service fair had a total forty-eight (48) persons in attendance and Elizabeth’s service fair had a total of one-hundred and forty-six (146) persons in attendance. Both service fairs offered resources from over sixteen (16) social service providers. Medical screenings were also provided at each location, where fifteen (15) individuals received a Covid-19 vaccine, twelve (12) persons received an eye exam, twelve (12) 12 persons received a hearing test, five (5) persons received the Flu vaccine and four (4) persons received information and resources about cancer screening and/or prevention.

During the seven (7) street outreach, which took place from January 24 through January 31, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily, a total of seven (7) groups, representing a total of nineteen (19) volunteers went out to survey the homeless throughout Union County in: Elizabeth, Plainfield, Summit, Roselle, Roselle Park, Garwood, Linden, Rahway, Hillside and Union. The seven (7) groups that went identified fifty-seven (57) homeless persons.

In an effort to house homeless individuals before the Annual Street Outreach events, a Code Blue was called for the night of January 23, 2024.  Through the County’s Code Blue Initiative program, almost 300 homeless persons were housed.

The data collected during NJCounts will help determine how much McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance HUD funding Union County will receive and provides crucial resources for the homeless and housing insecure throughout Union County.

For information on the Department of Human Services, please visit ucnj.org/dhs or call the Action Line, 908-677-5405.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that registration has opened for the 2024 Union County Senior Art Exhibit, to be held from April 19 to May 30, 2024. Coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, the Senior Art Exhibit will be held at the Scotch Plains campus of UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ, at 1776 Raritan Road, Scotch Plains. A closing reception will be held on May 30 for all exhibiting artists. Residents of Union County, age 60 and up, both professional and non-professional artists, are invited and encouraged to enter an artwork.

“We are delighted to open registration for the 2024 Union County Senior Art Exhibit,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This exhibit not only highlights the artistic achievements of our seniors, but also provides a platform for them to share their unique perspectives and stories through art. Whether you’re an experienced artist or discovering your talent later in life, the Senior Art Exhibit is for you.” 

The media categories are: acrylic painting, oil painting, watercolor, pastel, works on paper (drawing), photography, digital art (excluding digital photography), mixed media, printmaking, sculpture, and craft. Entry must be an original work completed between April 2021 and April 2024. The deadline to register is April 14. Registration online is required. Find complete instructions, rules, and registration form at https://ucnj.org/art-shows/2024-senior-art-show/. For seniors who do not have internet access, a relative or friend with an email address may register on behalf of the artist; or the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs will assist artists with registration by phone.

Artworks entered will be judged by a panel of professional artists who will designate separate awards for professional artists and non-professionals. First-place 2D artworks will be exhibited at the Commissioners Gallery during the summer. All first-place artworks will go on to compete at the state level in the New Jersey Senior Citizens Art Show in the fall.

“Art is a vital aspect of senior life,” said Commissioner Vice Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon, liaison for the Advisory Council on Aging. “It fosters creativity and self-expression, inspiring the lives of our seniors. Through initiatives like the Union County Senior Art Exhibit, we honor their talents, stories, and contributions to our community.”

For assistance or questions about the Senior Arts Exhibit, or to receive instructions by mail or email, email msturm@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2552 (weekdays). Relay users dial 711. This program is made possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. To learn more about the programs and services offered by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, visit https://ucnj.org/parks-recreation/cultural-heritage-affairs/.