Belated wishes to you and yours - hoping you had a restful and restorative (if that’s not your thing, entertaining and fun-filled) Thanksgiving.  It’s my favorite holiday by a long shot - food, family, community, and gratitude - vitally important stuff right there- the building blocks of healthy cultures and successful nation states.   

As I often do, I look to history for guidance during trying times.   I am reminded of another time when many of our fellow citizen’s lacked access to sufficient, healthy food; where our common definitions of what comprises a family or how to define our community have frayed, drawing us apart rather than together, and we collectively seem to spend more time focusing on deficits and faults in others, than being grateful for our myriad blessings. I have included excerpts from Abraham Lincoln’s Proclamation establishing a National Day of Thanksgiving while our nation was engaged in civil war, both as reminder that we can collectively reimagine a more inclusive community and nation and (pardon the cliché) that even in times of great strife and loss, we can find something to be grateful for.

I am extremely grateful for each of your work in our shared community and particularly those on behalf the vulnerable residents of Somerset County.  Thank you for what you do. To quote my old boss: “It matters”.

Zach Berliner

President Abraham Lincoln’s Thanksgiving Proclamation from October 3, 1863

The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature that they cannot fail to penetrate and even soften the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.

In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and provoke their aggressions, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere, except in the theater of military conflict; while that theater has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.

Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle, or the ship; the ax has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised, nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American people. I do, therefore, invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. And I recommend to them that, while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation, and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility, and union.

Self-Care Throughout the Holiday Season

Submitted by Kate Russo, Planning Administrator, Office of Operations and Planning

The holiday season brings about an abundance of emotions for each of us. Some of us are excited about the shopping, the planning and the executing of gatherings and family time. Others look forward to the celebrations but find the preparation emotionally taxing.  And still, many of us, dream of burrowing under the covers for the entire month of December only to emerge in the new year with a sigh of relief.

Wherever you find yourself this year, self-care has never been more important.  Self-care involves taking care of our physical and emotional well-being. We usually have a routine of self-care - basic hygiene, sleep, exercise and set mealtimes - but throughout the holidays, that routine can fluctuate. We may skip exercising, get less sleep, or indulge in foods and drinks we normally don’t consume. Add the stress of the holiday hustle and bustle, along with the anticipation of family and work gatherings, and it becomes more challenging.

The holiday season brings additional commitments to our already full schedules. Our to-do lists grow longer, and somehow, the time we have for ourselves grows shorter. So how can we prepare for this year’s holiday season and maintain a sense of self-preservation throughout?

1. Surrender – Nothing is perfect. The Instagram-worthy holiday homes are perfect on social media and social media only. Manage your expectations and simplify where possible. Embrace imperfections - they often make the holidays more memorable.
2. Delegate – A growing list of responsibilities can overwhelm anyone. Delegate tasks where you can. Can others in the household help with daily chores? While holiday cookie baking is a cherished tradition, if it’s not realistic, buy the cookies instead.
3. Prioritize – Put yourself at the top of the list. You cannot pour from an empty cup so make sure you prioritize your own needs. If this means surrendering control over how the house is decorated or delegating items on your to do list, then do it.
4. Set Limits – Learn to say no to invitations, especially from family members or neighbors who drain your energy. It’s also okay to leave a party/event early. Stick to your budget, both financially and emotionally.
5. Schedule – As much as possible, maintain your regular schedule for sleep, hydration, exercise, and mealtimes. Staying consistent helps keep you grounded during the chaos.
6. Do not Compare – Comparison is the “thief of joy”. Avoid comparing yourself, your life or your experiences to others. You are neither more nor less than anyone else. If you need to remove yourself from social media for the month to preserve your mental health, I give you permission.
7. Gratitude – Make the time to sit in gratitude and focus on the positive aspects of your day and the holiday season. Listing 3-5 things you’re grateful for each morning and night will help shift your mindset.

I wish you a season filled with peace, love, and hope. May you also find moments for yourself amidst the season of giving.

CENTRAL JERSEY HOUSING RESOURCE CENTER (CJHRC)

FREE WEBINARS FOR THE COMMUNITY!!!

HOUSING DOWNPAYMENT & CLOSING COST RESOURCES WEBINAR

One of the obstacles for potential homebuyers is saving for the downpayment.  If you are a potential homebuyer and want to learn about grants for down payment and closing costs, register for this FREE Down Payment Resources webinar on December 12, 2024 from 6:00 pm to 7:15 pm.  This 75-minute webinar will cover various assistance grants and some of the eligibility criteria.  Click here to register

JANUARY HOMEBUYER CERTIFICATE COURSE (2 NIGHT) WEBINAR

Buying a home is an exciting milestone in your life and there are many factors to consider along the way. This 2-Days webinar will help you with the complex home buying process. Expert speakers will cover various topics including the Mortgage Process, What a Real Estate Attorney Does, the Importance of Homeowners Insurance & A Home Inspection, the Affordable Housing Program, Down Payment & Closing Cost Assistance Grants and more.  

Each participant planning to be on the deed and/or mortgage MUST register and attend both sessions to attain a certificate.  

                        January 27, 2025 and January 29, 2025

5:30 pm to 8:15 pm

                        Click here to see links to register

VEHICLE LEASING, BUYING & NJ LEMON LAWS -- OVERVIEW

Buying or leasing a vehicle is expensive and consumers should know how much they can afford and what’s on their credit report so they get the lowest interest rate on a loan.  New Jersey Lemon Laws are important should you encounter any problems with your vehicle after purchase and the laws to protect you. Register  here  for CJHRC’ FREE Vehicle leasing,  Buying & Lemon Laws  overview webinar on February 4, 2025 from 6:00 pm to 7:15 pm (Q&A after session)

WANT TO BECOME FINANCIALLY STABLE IN THE NEW YEAR?

Do you want to learn how to create a budget, manage debt, track personal spending and build your savings as well as understanding credit and resources?  CJHRC’s FREE Financial Literacy Webinar will address those topics. The webinar is scheduled for 2/25/25 from 5:30 pm to 8:15 pm.  Participants who complete this program can meet with their counselor, complete an authorization form and then receive a FREE tri-merge (soft pull) credit report which does not impact your credit scores!  To register, click here.

Visit CJHRC’s  website at https://link.edgepilot.com/s/cf933a00/-lV825P6RU_djIUVdq0yOw?u=http://www.cjhrc.org/ and view our services and 

how we may be able to assist you by clicking here!  

Contact a CJHRC Counselor at 908-446-0036 or email us at 2cjhrc@gmail.com with any questions you may have.  Get important announcements by liking us on Facebook (Central Jersey Housing Resource Center) or following us on Instagram (cjhrc_housing).

[Click Here to view full PDF]

Caring for the Caregiver: A Wellness Evening Out

Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services honored caregivers throughout the month of November; which is recognized as National Family Caregivers Month in the United States. A highlight during this month was a Wellness Evening Out, 23 caregivers enjoyed an evening of comradery during dinner, self-care through a chair yoga class led by a certified instructor and art instruction led by a professional artist. These caregivers left leaving feeling connected, happy and grateful to share a part of themselves with other caregivers.

Caregivers are relatives, partners, friends, or neighbors who provide care for a loved one facing physical or mental health challenges, often without formal training or compensation (Family Caregiver Alliance, 2024). Caregivers often go above and beyond, providing essential support to loved ones in need, yet seldom they receive care for themselves. We recognize the work that caregivers do is priceless and value their contributions. There are over 50 million family caregivers in the United States without whom their loved ones would be left vulnerable and in need of social services supports.

An added feature to the evening was an interactive display to provide caregivers with information on medical equipment used to enhance a person’s daily activities, such as walking, eating, transferring, positioning, and gripping. Display presented by Cristina Lu, Public Health Nurse, Office on Aging & Disability Services.

Beyond the activities, the evening fostered a sense of community amongst the group. Attendees provided feedback on the event expressing their gratitude, ability to have respite and disconnect for a short time. Caregiving is often an isolating role, but events such as these remind them that they are not alone.

If you or anyone you know is interested in how the Somerset County Office on Aging & Disability Services can assist and support throughout a caregiving journey, please call the office at 908-704-6346 or email DisabilityServices@co.somerset.nj.us

Definitions. Definitions - Family Caregiver Alliance. (2024). https://www.caregiver.org/resource/definitions-0/

4-H

Mozzarella Making: A Farm to Table Program 

December 18th 6:30-7:30pm at the Somerset County Ted Blum 4-H Center.

Come join Somerset County 4-H as you learn how milk ventures from the farm to your table. You will learn how to make fresh Mozzarella cheese while you partake in a virtual farm tour. Preregistration is required, first come first served, max 25 participants. $20 registration fee. Open only to youth grades 5th-13th. Registration and payment due December 4th.

Register at the link HERE.

Holiday Craft Festival

December 14-15, 2024, 10am-3pm both days

Join us this December for a Holiday Craft Festival at the Ted Blum 4-H Center, featuring Handmade Crafts & Local Artisans. Refreshments, Pictures with Santa, a Running Train Display and a Gingerbread Contest!

FCHS

• December Wellness Wednesdays: Join us for this month’s series of FCHS Wellness Wednesday webinars! These webinars take place every Wednesday at 12:30pm. Registration is required, but is free. To see December’s webinars, please visit: https://njaes.rutgers.edu/wellness-wednesdays/
• NJ Empower to Prevent: the CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP)
• The NDPP is an evidence-based, lifestyle change program, shown to reduce the risk of developing diabetes. The year-long virtual program focuses on modest weight loss, healthy eating and physical activity, stress reduction, and healthy coping.
• Sessions are enrolling for May, 2025. For more information on NJ Empower to Prevent program and eligibility for the program, contact fchs@co.somerset.nj.us
• MEND Program Recruitment for 2025

The Rutgers Environmental Stewards class is registering for sessions beginning in January, 2025. Space is limited, if you are interested in registering or learning more, please visit: https://envirostewards.rutgers.edu/program-overview/annual-class/

Social Responsibility & National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Submitted by Cynthia Holtzman, Intoxicated Driver Resource Center Administrator

As the holiday season approaches, we look forward to getting together with friends and family to celebrate.    Whether it’s a small family gathering, happy hour with coworkers or more festive events, alcohol and perhaps other substances are quite often part of the festivities.  

The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA) reported that while typically 1/3 of all traffic fatalities are DUI related, during the holiday season, nearly half of all traffic deaths involve an impaired driver; with an additional 25,000 injuries from alcohol, marijuana or other substance related crashes.  People often engage in binge drinking .  The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is sometimes called “Drinksgiving” or “Blackout Wednesday” and New Year's Day is the deadliest day of the year for drunk driving.  All of these deaths are preventable.

                This year, I couldn’t help but think about our responsibility to each other.  Social responsibility is the idea that people should act in ways that benefit society and the environment, and not just their own interests.  With this in mind, I ask you to follow these simple suggestions to have a safe and enjoyable holiday season this year and many more to come.

1. Remember that there is no safe amount of alcohol to drink prior to driving.
2. There are no short cuts to sobering up. Coffee only acts to keep you awake while you are still impaired. Stopping drinking an hour or more before you drive does not mean that the alcohol has worn off.
3. Don’t drive to drinking events.
4. Choose a designated driver in advance. This is someone who agrees to not drink at all; it’s not the person who is the “least drunk.”
5. Use ridesharing services, public transportation or call someone to pick you up.
6. Avoid drinking games.
7. Use of technology can assist with BAC apps (https://alcohol.org/bac-calculator/or https://rethinkingdrinking.niaaa.nih.gov/tools/calculators/cocktail-content-calculator

Driving under the influence is not an isolated issue; it affects all of us.  The choices we make can protect lives, save families from heartbreak, and make our communities safer.  As we head into this season marked by celebrations, let’s also mark it by being responsible to ourselves and to each other.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Below are various job opportunities available within Somerset County including with partner agencies/organizations. For all inquiries, contact the organization directly.

Community in Crisis

Data and Communications Coordinator (Part-Time)

Description:

Lead outreach through data-informed and driven social media management, and community engagement.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong ties to Somerset County and knowledge of local resources.
• Second language fluency is strongly preferred to better serve our diverse community.
• Passion for community-driven recovery support. 

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to kmusgrove@communityincrisis.org. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Position details here.

Peer Recovery Specialist (Full-Time)

Details:

Provide direct support to individuals in recovery, connect them to local resources, and build a recovery-friendly environment.

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong ties to Somerset County and knowledge of local resources.
• Second language fluency is strongly preferred to better serve our diverse community.
• Passion for community-driven recovery support. 

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and cover letter to kmusgrove@communityincrisis.org. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Position details here.