Category: Public Info

Temporary Service Adjustments Expected During Transition

Union County today announced that Brooklyn Kitchen will assume operations of the County’s Senior Nutrition Program, effective January 1, 2026. The program provides nutritious meals to eligible older adults through home-delivered services and congregate meal sites throughout Union County.

“As we welcome our new partner, our top priority is ensuring that Union County seniors continue to receive their meals safely, reliably, and without interruption,” said Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. “We are working closely with Brooklyn Kitchen during this transition and will keep residents informed every step of the way.”

During the initial transition period, eligible seniors may notice some temporary adjustments as the new vendor ramps up operations:

• Meal delivery times may vary as routes are adjusted and drivers learn new schedules. Some deliveries may arrive earlier or later than usual during the first few weeks.
• Frozen meals will be provided temporarily in January before the program transitions back to hot meals. These meals meet the same nutritional standards and help ensure consistent service during the transition.
• New staff will be providing service, including drivers and congregate site personnel who are being trained and on boarded. All staff are screened and trained to support senior safety and nutrition.
• No changes are expected at congregate sites. All 17 congregate meal sites across Union County will continue to receive hot meals on their regular schedules.

“This program is about care, consistency, and making sure no senior goes without a meal — especially during a time of change,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. “When County management learned this transition needed to happen sooner than expected, we moved quickly to put a plan in place that protects our seniors and keeps meals coming. That commitment to people — and to showing up when it matters — is something I will always be proud of.”

Eligible seniors who are already enrolled in the Senior Nutrition Program do not need to take any action to continue receiving meals. Residents with questions or feedback are encouraged to contact the Union County Division on Aging at 908-527-4870.

This event has been postponed. We will send out an update when an new date has been established.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, is excited to announce its first event of the new year in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The Lenape: Native Americans, New Jersey, and American History, presented by Seton Hall University history professor, Dr. Sean P. Harvey, will delve into the rich and complex history of the Lenape people who inhabited New Jersey during the European colonization. The free and informative event will take place on Tuesday, January 27th, at 6:00 p.m. at the Liberty Hall Museum in Union, in the wagon shed. Attendees may pre-register at www.ucnj.org/250.

“The 250th anniversary of the American Revolution is a moment we can all celebrate together as a community. It connects us not only to our ancestors who courageously fought these historic battles, but also to the roots of the cities we live in and the places we love to visit,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman, Lourdes M. Leon. “By exploring our past through history seminars like our Lenape presentation, we can understand how our ancestors lived and appreciate the values of freedom and unity that are still important today.”

Presenter Dr. Sean P. Harvey teaches courses on Colonial America, Revolutionary America, Democracy, Slavery, and Manifest Destiny, as well as Native American History before Removal. He also conducts surveys of American history and departmental seminars. He is the author of Native Tongues: Colonialism and Race from Encounter to the Reservation and serves on the Editorial Board of Commonplace: The Journal of Early American Life. Additionally, he is a member of the Advisory Council at the McNeil Center for Early American Studies and the Revolution NJ Scholarly and Public Programs Working Group, and co-edited Reviews for Journal of the Early Republic from 2014 to 2017.

A countywide event calendar was created earlier this year, allowing municipalities and authorized organizations to submit their commemorative programs for approval and inclusion. Residents can explore upcoming activities and learn more by visiting www.ucnj.org/250.

“We’re excited to continue adding events to this calendar throughout the year, giving our residents and guests plenty of opportunities to celebrate this significant moment in our history together,” said Union County Commissioner Rebecca Williams, Chair to the Union County 250^th Committee. “I encourage any historical organizations and local community groups to submit their 250^th Anniversary events to our email for review.”

Residents, historical organizations, and community groups are encouraged to submit their 250^th Anniversary-related events through the official Union County 250^th Anniversary Event Calendar, available at www.ucnj.org/250.

For more details and updates on the celebration, visit ucnj.org/250 and follow Union County on social media.

This event is supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State’s Division of Cultural Affairs.

For more information about this event and other programs highlighting the arts and the history of Union County, please contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202. You can reach us by telephone at (908) 558-2550. NJ Relay users should dial 711, or you can send an email to culturalinfo@ucnj.org.

Announces New Dates for January

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites seniors and caregivers to the Aging Services Kiosk (ASK) events in January to explore the wide range of senior programs and resources available. These events allow attendees to meet face-to-face with experienced professionals who can provide expert guidance and assistance with a variety of services, including form completion. Bilingual staff will be available on several dates to provide support in Spanish.

“Our mission with this program has always been, and continues to be, to ensure that our seniors have access to the resources and services they need to stay connected with the community, and for a better quality of life,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Seeing the positive effects this service has had on the lives of those who have visited us has kept this initiative at the forefront since its inception in 2016.  If you’re a senior or caring for one, I strongly encourage you to visit us in January. Our friendly staff members are ready to help you start this new year on a positive and hopeful note.”

The Aging Services Kiosk is operated explicitly by the Division on Aging, a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. It offers adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.

Staff at ASK locations can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services, including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown.  No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in January 2026:

Thursday, January 8th

(Bilingual staff available)

Garwood Public Library

411 Third Avenue, Garwood

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Thursday, January 15th

(Bilingual staff available)

Elizabeth Public Library – Main

11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, January 20th

Clark Public Library

303 Westfield Avenue, Clark

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tuesday, January 28th

(Bilingual staff available)

Union Public Library

1980 Morris Avenue, Union

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

“Our sincerest appreciation goes to the staff at our Division on Aging for their dedicated support in helping seniors throughout the county maintain their dignity and independence for as long as possible,” said Union County Commissioner James Baker, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging.

For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.

The Union County Sheriff’s Office (UCSO) is alerting residents to a recurring phone scam that has surfaced again, with scammers becoming increasingly aggressive in impersonating law enforcement officers.

Callers claim the individual has an arrest warrant — often citing missed jury duty or a failure to appear in court — and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest. Recent incidents show scammers spoofing official phone numbers, using the names of real Union County officers, and sending fake warrant documents containing the victim’s personal information.

These calls are entirely fraudulent and intended to steal money and sensitive information.

WHEN IN DOUBT, HANG UP.

Law enforcement agencies will never:
• Demand payment over the phone.
• Request gift cards, prepaid cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
• Threaten immediate arrest for nonpayment.
• Ask for personal or financial information over the phone.

“Residents should know that we will never ask for money over the phone — not for fines, not for warrants, not for anything,” said Sheriff Peter Corvelli Jr. “If you receive a call like this, end the conversation immediately and verify with your local police department.”

If you receive one of these calls, hang up. A report is only necessary if you have provided money or personal information.

Residents who believe they have been victimized should contact their local police department to file a report.

For additional information or updates, contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office at 908-527-4450 or visit https://ucnj.org/sheriff/.

The Union County Board of Commissioners, along with the Department of Human Services and the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs invites residents and their families to skate with Santa Claus on Saturday, December 20th at Warinanco Sports Center, located at 1 Park Drive in Roselle from 2:00pm-4:00pm.

Families are invited to enjoy an afternoon of holiday fun at the rink, featuring seasonal treats and a visit from Santa. Children under 12 will receive a special holiday gift, generously provided by the Sergio Granados Civic Association, a nonprofit dedicated to building inclusive, resilient communities in New Jersey. The organization works alongside residents, schools, community organizations, and elected leaders to connect families to resources, expand opportunities for growth, celebrate diverse cultures, and strengthen community life so that every resident has the tools to thrive. Admission is free, but advance registration is required at ucnj.org/opdsn-reg. For safety purposes, participants aged 13 and under are strongly recommended to bring a helmet for use during the event.

“We’re excited to offer a joyful day at the rink where families can create memories and share in the spirit of the holidays,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “It’s always great to see our community come together to celebrate. We’re grateful to the Sergio Granados Civic Association for their partnership and for bringing holiday joy to our youngest Skating with Santa guests.” For more information about activities and support services offered through the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, please call the office at 908-527-4807 or 908-527-4781.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that the Union County Performing Arts Center (UCPAC) in Rahway has been awarded $497,500 through Phase II of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s Activation, Revitalization, and Transformation (A.R.T.) Program.

UCPAC was among 39 organizations — selected from 109 applicants — approved statewide in municipalities eligible for the program, reaffirming the importance of Rahway’s arts district and UCPAC’s role as a cultural hub for Union County.

“UCPAC is a pillar of creativity and connection in Union County, and this award reinforces the incredible work they do year-round,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “This investment supports a space where families, artists, and residents of all ages can come together to learn, experience, and celebrate the arts.”

The A.R.T. Phase II Program is designed to help arts and cultural organizations activate public spaces, boost foot traffic, and support long-term economic revitalization. Funding is provided through the federal American Rescue Plan.

The grant will directly support UCPAC’s ongoing community programming, including the County’s Sensory Friendly Theater series — a Union County initiative supported and hosted at UCPAC — which provides inclusive, accessible performances for children and adults with sensory sensitivities. The funding will also assist with public events, educational opportunities, and initiatives that bring audiences into Rahway’s vibrant arts district.

“UCPAC has consistently shown how the arts can break barriers and open doors,” said County Manager Ed Oatman. “This grant will empower them to expand programming, reach new audiences, and continue serving as a cultural anchor for the entire county.”

Arts and cultural investments play a vital role in strengthening Union County’s economy, supporting local businesses, and enhancing community life for residents.

“We are deeply grateful for this support and excited for what it will make possible,” said Danni Newbury, Executive Director of UCPAC. “This grant enables us to grow in ways that directly benefit our community — from expanded performances to new educational and engagement opportunities that welcome everyone into our theaters.”

For more information about Union County programs and services, visit ucnj.org, or download the free Explore Union County mobile app.

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that a selection of prize-winning art work by Union County and UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ employees, their family members, and volunteers is on display through January 16 in the Commissioners Gallery, located on the 6^th floor of the Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza in Elizabeth. The gallery is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekdays.

The art display presents a select sampling of 16 pieces from among the 74 pieces judged at the recent 19th annual “National Arts Program Exhibit and Contest for Union County Employees and Their Families.” The exhibit and contest are a result of a partnership with the National Arts Program Foundation, which provides prize money and valuable support to display the work of talented artists of all ages.

“We are honored to conclude the year with an exhibit that celebrates our employees—the dedicated public servants who strengthen this community every day,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon. “Congratulations to all of this year’s winners. It is our pleasure to highlight the remarkable talent and artistry within our Union County family. This showcase reflects not only exceptional skill, but also the creativity and heart that each of you brings to our community.”

Listed by category are all the award-winning employee artists, retirees, volunteers, and their family members, and the awards they won at the original exhibit and contest. The closing reception was held at UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ’s Scotch Plains Campus on Friday, November 21, 2025:

Overall

Best in Show – Veronica Dunscombe, Professional

Teen Art Education Award – Chloe Thompson, Teen

Professional

1^st Place – Jacqueline Abend

2^nd Place – Kat Block

3^rd Place – Dario Scholis

Intermediate

1^st Place – Clara Owens

2^nd Place – Kaylee Krill

3^rd Place – Alessandra Alma

Amateur

1^st Place – Ivan Strom

2^nd Place – Victoria Martins

3^rd Place – Beverly Guest

Teen – Ages 13-18

1^st Place – Elysse Brathwaite

2^nd Place – Antoinette Evans

Youth – Ages 12 & Under

1^st Place – Elena Boyar

2^nd Place – Alessia Alma

3^rd Place – Chelsea Velazquez

“I would like to thank our Union County employees, retirees, and their families for participating in this annual event. Their pieces always bring so much life and color to our gallery,” said Union County Commissioner and Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Board, Bette Jane Kowalski. “I encourage residents to take the time to visit and enjoy the display for themselves.”

Additional support for this event was provided by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, Department of State, a partner agency of the National Endowment for the Arts. Exhibits at the Commissioners Gallery are coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs.

For more information about this exhibit and other programs and services related to the arts and Union County history, contact the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth NJ 07202. Telephone: (908) 558-2550. NJ Relay users dial 711. Or send E-mail to: culturalinfo@ucnj.org