Mental Health Awareness Month: Let’s Talk, Listen, and Support

Submitted by Lisette Turner, Mental Health Administrator, Somerset County Department of Human Services

May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to reflect on the importance of mental well-being and work together to break the stigma surrounding mental health. One in five people experiences a mental health condition each year, yet many still face silence and isolation due to persistent stigma.

By fostering understanding and empathy, we can create a world where everyone feels supported and empowered to seek help. Whether through simple gestures like checking in on a friend or educating ourselves about mental health, we all have the power to make a difference. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and it's okay to ask for help when you need it.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Somerset County Department of Human Services, in collaboration with the Stigma-Free Committee, is bringing together professionals and community partners from various sectors to address and reduce stigma at the Human Services & Stigma Free Conference. On Monday, May 19th, conference attendees will participate in sessions that delve into critical topics such as mental health, criminal justice, aging, recovery housing, gambling, child protective services, volunteerism, harm reduction, cultural influences on mental health recovery, and the unique experiences of veterans. All our welcome! Register Here!

This month, let’s unite to raise awareness, share resources, and encourage open conversations about mental health. Join us in spreading awareness, starting meaningful conversations, and supporting those who need it. Together, we can build a healthier, more compassionate community for everyone.

2025 Somerset County Human Services Conference

"Synergy for Change: Transforming Awareness into Collective Action."

• Monday, May 19th, 2025, at 9:00 AM at Raritan Valley Community College
• Register Here: https://bit.ly/4hTwW8t. Deadline to register is Friday, May 9
• CEUs Available! (for a fee). Clinical credentials not required—everyone is welcome!
• For questions, please contact Lisette Turner lturner@co.somerset.nj.us

Brain Fog and Menopause

Submitted by Richard Hall Community Health & Wellness Center

Throughout history, Menopause was something that women suffered through in silence. Then, in 2001, Menopause the Musical debuted, giving women (and the men who love them) the chance to come together to relate and find humor in this life changing transition. Now, we know all about the hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. However, there is a little talked about symptom of Menopause: Brain Fog.

What is brain fog? If you find you’re struggling with word finding, trying to remember what you just heard or read, it could be menopausal brain fog. Some women also find it more difficult focusing on a task or staying organized. Perhaps you walk into a room but forget why you went there in the first place. This can be frustrating and over time can cause depression. But don’t despair, you aren’t alone! And the brain fog will eventually improve.

Why does brain fog happen? During perimenopause and menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels decrease. This affects the release of chemical messengers in the brain. One of these messengers is dopamine. A decrease in dopamine can affect focusing and concentration.

What can you do? Keep a log or diary of what you’re experiencing and talk to your family doctor or gynecologist. Depending on your health history, they may prescribe hormone replacement therapy, or other medication. Also, exercising regularly benefits your body AND your brain. Exercise gets the brain oxygenated and releases endorphins, a natural mood booster.  Eat a diet that’s rich in proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Try to avoid processed foods, they cause inflammation and can spike your sugars. A good night’s sleep may be a challenge, but very important! Keep your room dark and cool, avoid alcohol and caffeine before bedtime, and limit screen time as it can stimulate the brain. 

Finally, don’t forget to make some time for yourself! Many women at this stage of life are caring for elderly parents and grandchildren, in addition to working. Making time for some self-care is a must! Plan activities that you enjoy. And don’t forget to laugh with friends.

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, substance use or gambling challenges, please call our ACCESS Center at 908-253-3165. If this is a psychiatric emergency call Bridgeway PESS at 908-526-4100 OR

CALL the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 to talk to a counselor 24/7/365

4-H: 

• Clovercon
  • 
• TOPS Camp
  • 
• Clovers and Dragons
  • 
• Touch a Truck
  • 

Family and Community Health Sciences: 

• NJEP: There are still a few spots remaining for this spring's NJ Empower to Prevent cohort, a virtual National Diabetes Prevention Program. If you, or someone you know, has been diagnosed with prediabetes, register for this FREE, year-long program by contacting us or completing the registration link https://rutgers.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2soUa9t5kfhGfIO  
• Wellness Wednesdays: May 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 April’s webinars, please visit: https://njaes.rutgers.edu/wellness-wednesdays/ 

• Cooking w Herbs
  • 
• Eating for Good Health
  • 

• Pollinator workshop
• Bring your plant questions to your library! A Rutgers Master Gardener will answer them for you. This is a walk-in program. Dates and locations are as follows: 

Power to the Period

Submitted by the Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women

The Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women, created in January 1985, consists of individuals committed to addressing issues that affect women in our communities.  The Somerset County Commission on the Status of Women is sponsoring a “Power to the Period” program to draw attention and help address the issue of period poverty.  Research indicates that a third of teens and young adults in the U.S. can’t afford or otherwise access menstrual products.  Some young women may skip school, sports or other social activities because of this lack of access.  We believe that every woman deserves the dignity of access to menstrual products.

Throughout the month of May, we will be collecting period products in partnership with the Somerset County Library System of New Jersey which will be delivered to food banks in Somerset County for distribution to women who are unable to afford or access these supplies. If you are interested in supporting this program, please see the drop off locations below. 

Power to the Period 

Collection timeframe: May 1 to May 31, 2025

Collection items requested: tampons and pads (all sizes), Ph balanced soaps and washes, feminine wipes, and deodorant 

Collection Locations – Please contact the location for their operating hours 

• Bridgewater Library at 1 Vogt Drive, Bridgewater 
• Manville Library at 100 South 10th Ave., Manville
• North Plainfield Library at 6 Rockview Ave., North Plainfield
• Warren Library at 42 Mountain Blvd., Warren
• Somerset County Human Services Building at 27 Warren Street, Somerville 

Period Poverty Awareness Week

May 12-18, 2025

The Alliance for Period Supplies created Period Poverty Awareness Week to draw attention to the issue of period poverty and the negative impact it has on people who menstruate.

We encourage everyone to join the movement and become advocates to help #endperiodpoverty – start a conversation about period poverty.

What is period poverty?

Half of the population menstruates. We all know plenty of people that have a period. But not everyone knows that one in four people struggle to purchase period supplies due to lack of income. This is called period poverty, and chances are we each know someone who has experienced this need — a neighbor, a co-worker, a friend.

No student should have to miss school, no adult should have to miss work, and no person should have to miss out on daily life because they are unable to afford the material basic necessities they require to thrive.

A growing need.

A 2021 study conducted by U by Kotex® revealed that two in five people have struggled to purchase period products, a 35% increase from the brand’s initial research in 2018. Earlier data inspired U by Kotex® to become the founding sponsor of the Alliance for Period Supplies in 2018, and to help people to affected by period poverty. The new data was released in conjunction with Period Poverty Awareness Week 2021.

The study also uncovered how period poverty is disproportionately impacting Black and Latina people, as well as how COVID-19 exasperated this public health issue. Key findings include:

• A quarter of Black (23%) and Latina (24%) people with periods strongly agree that they’ve struggled to afford period products in the past year.
• 27% of all respondents said the COVID-19 pandemic made it difficult to access period products, with two-thirds (65%) of those who have struggled stating they lacked access because they could not afford them.
• Over one-third (38%) of low-wage women report missing work, school or similar events due to lack of access to period supplies.
• Nearly seven in ten (68%) people agree that period poverty is a public health issue, yet only 4% of Americans are aware of a local resource where free or reduced cost period supplies are available.

Alliance for Period Supplies. (2025, February 27). Period Poverty Awareness Week - Alliance for Period Supplies. Alliance for Period Supplies - It’s That Time. *. https://allianceforperiodsupplies.org/ppaw/

CENTRAL JERSEY HOUSING RESOURCE CENTER (CJHRC) 

FREE UPCOMING WEBINARS!!!

Homeowner, Condo and Renter’s Insurance-Basics You Should Know

May 6, 2025

3:00 pm – 4:15 pm

This is a brand new webinar which will discuss the importance of having homeowner, condo or renter insurance.  Click here to learn more and register.

 I Want To Purchase An Affordable Housing Unit – How Do I Begin?

May 20, 2025

6:00 pm – 7:15 pm

This webinar is designed for potential homebuyers seeking to understand the process of purchasing an affordable unit. Click here to learn more and register.

CJHRC’s staff provide FREE counseling services for financial literacy, pre- and post-purchase, rental, mortgage default/foreclosure, Fair Housing issues/questions and homeless counseling. 

Contact a CJHRC at 908-446-0036 or visit our website at www.cjhrc.org  for assistance.

For important housing announcements, resources, and updates like us on social media.

• Facebook: Central Jersey Housing Resource Center
• Instagram: @CJHRC_housing

Franklin Food Bank's New Giving Table Kicks off at Twenty/20 Taphouse

Where Every Meal Makes a Difference

Franklin Township, NJ — The Franklin Food Bank is thrilled to launch The Giving Table, a powerful new initiative that brings together local restaurants and residents to take a stand against food insecurity. The kickoff event will be held on Tuesday, May 13th at Twenty / 20 Taphouse in Somerset, NJ—an establishment known for its community spirit and elevated pub fare.

Twenty / 20 Taphouse will donate 20% of all revenue to the Franklin Food Bank for this special day. Every dollar raised will go directly toward providing nutritious meals for individuals and families across Franklin Township who need it most.

But The Giving Table isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s a community movement. Participating restaurants and patrons are invited to:

• ●Show their community spirit by supporting local families in need
• ●Draw new customers through a shared purpose
• ●Elevate their brand by aligning with a trusted, mission-driven organization
• ●Make a tangible impact on hunger and food access in our township

“Being chosen as the first location to kick off this campaign is an incredible honor,” said Nick DeLuca, General Manager of Twenty/20 Taphouse. “This program represents the best of what our community can do when we come together. At Twenty / 20, we believe in serving more than just food—we believe in serving our neighbors, too.”

Mark your calendars for May 13th and join us at Twenty / 20 Taphouse. Enjoy a great meal, support a vital cause, and be part of something meaningful.

"We at the Franklin Food Bank are absolutely thrilled to kick off The Giving Table with the generous support of Twenty/20 Taphouse,” said Executive Director Derek Smith, “This initiative embodies the very essence of our community coming together to support food security efforts in Franklin Township. To have a local establishment like Twenty/20 Taphouse step up as the first partner in this movement speaks volumes about their commitment to our neighbors. Come for the food. Stay for the cause. Together, we can make every plate count.”

To learn more about The Giving Table or how to participate, visit www.franklinfoodbank.org or contact us directly.

Building Trust and Bringing Care Where It’s Needed Most
New program combines housing assistance with on-the-street medical care

For the nearly 13,000 people experiencing homelessness in New Jersey, health care is often out of reach. Many lack insurance and transportation, struggle with mental health or substance use disorders, and distrust the health system due to past negative experiences. Without proper care, and compounded by unstable living conditions, limited resources, and ongoing trauma, these individuals face significant health disparities, including higher rates of illness and shorter life expectancies.

In Somerset County, where the homeless population has more than doubled since 2018, Zufall Health is working to break this cycle. A new program funded by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs equips Zufall staff to provide intensive case management, housing assistance, and medical care to unsheltered individuals, including those living in parks, tents, and other uninhabitable spaces. The program follows the Housing First model, which recognizes that housing is a basic human right and offers the stability needed to rebuild lives.

Equally important is the program’s focus on delivering medical care directly to people where they are. While Zufall has long used mobile units for outreach, this initiative goes further by bringing essential care directly to encampments and other temporary dwellings. After establishing trust, a Zufall outreach representative accompanies a physician assistant who provides foot care to address blisters and infections, harm reduction supplies, and other basic medical care. For those needing more specialized care, including Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), dental care, or lab work, transportation is provided to one of Zufall’s Somerset County offices.

"In affluent Somerset County, it’s easy to overlook homelessness, but it’s right here, in our own neighborhoods,” says Fran Palm, president and CEO. When we talk about equal opportunity for good health, this is exactly what we mean—making sure that everyone, no matter their circumstances, has access to the care they need."

Michelle Blanchfield, vice president of community engagement and program lead, adds, “Trust is key. For many of these individuals, health care has often been perceived as harmful or stigmatizing. By bringing care directly to them, we’re showing that they matter and that they can trust us with their health.”

Upcoming Events

Parent Café – Juggling Your Three Ring Circus

Tuesday May 13^th, 5:00 - 7:00 pm

Flemington Free Public Library, 118 Main Street, Flemington

• Balancing Work & Family Life
• Door Prizes / Refreshments for all
• Childcare, Transportation Reimbursement possible with advanced sign-up (contact for details)

Whether you have one baby on the way or several kids at home... life can be like a balancing act!

In this session, parents will explore their strengths, discuss strategies, and leave the Café feeling inspired and energized to tame the challenges, juggle responsibilities, and give their babies, children, and families the best start possible!

In Parent Cafés every voice is valued. Parent Cafés are a parent-to-parent way to build family resilience and nurture potential.

Come out and join us

Register by clicking the link:

https://link.edgepilot.com/s/086f7c4b/CI6hkCpXZEuBJrzNgydOlQ?u=https://forms.office.com/r/2j8dkTnQBs 

Family Summer Resource Expo/Exposición de Recursos de Verano Familiar

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

4:30 - 7:00 PM 
- "open house" style - come when you can 
- "jornada de puertas abiertas’"- ven y ve a su conveniencia

Hunterdon County Chamber of Commerce Foundation – Unity Center for Business and Entrepreneurship - 119 Main St, Flemington

You do not need to register -- but if you do, you will get an extra door prize ticket and we'll send you a reminder and updated information.

More than a dozen Hunterdon County resources for pregnant people and families and caregivers of infants, toddlers, and young children.
We'll be highlighting the SUMMER months!!:
 - Sun, heat and water safety
 - Seasonal jobs
 - Summer activities
 - Cooling locations

Join our friends from the Child and Family Resource Services (CFRS) of Norwescap to learn about your baby and toddler's development as well as fun activities to help baby's brain grow!

Find out what TICKS look like – and how to safely get rid of them…and more insect information from the Mosquito and Vector Division of the Hunterdon County Department of Health.

Get information about: Workers' rights; Maternity and Family Leave; Prevent Lead Poisoning; Childhood Vaccines; Pregnancy Health; ... and how to get connected with the resources you need!

Register to receive updated schedule and information!
Door Prizes!  Refreshments!

No es necesario registrarse, pero si lo hace, recibe un boleto de rifa extra, y le enviaremos un recordatorio e información actualizada. 

Más de una docena de recursos del condado de Hunterdon para embarazadas, familias y cuidadores de bebés y niños pequeños. 

¡Destacaremos los meses de VERANO!: 
 - Seguridad contra el sol, el calor y el agua
 - Trabajos temporadas
 - Actividades de verano
 - Lugares para refrescarse 

Únase a nuestros amigos de los Servicios de Recursos para Niños y Familias (CFRS) de Norwescap para aprender sobre el desarrollo de su bebé y niño pequeño, además de disfrutar de actividades divertidas que le ayudarán a desarrollar su cerebro. 

Descubra cómo son las garrapatas y cómo deshacerse de ellas de forma segura... y más información sobre sancudos u otros insectos de la ‘División de Mosquitos y Vectores’ del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Hunterdon.

Infórmese sobre: Derechos laborales; derechos de Ausencia Familiar (incluyendo - maternidad); Prevención del envenenamiento por plomo; Vacunas infantiles; Salud durante el embarazo; y cómo acceder a los recursos que necesita.

¡Premios! Refrescos!

Register Here/Registrate Aqui: https://link.edgepilot.com/s/b1f10f4d/AZBi6gWIkE2f-gRzHCKB_Q?u=https://forms.office.com/r/tzTmde0pjA

Exciting News from Norwescap’s CLTC!

We are thrilled to announce the continuation of our series of free computer classes. These classes will be held in-person at the Flemington United Methodist Church, located at 116 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822. Classes will run from 9:15 AM to 1:30 PM, using our computers and internet.

To register and learn about the computer classes we will be offering in May, please contact us at cltc@norwescap.org or by phone:

• Somerset County clients: Call (908-900-0060 x1503) or text (908-899-1444) Sam Ricker.
• All other clients: Call (908-788-1453) or text (908-824-0582) Terry Sickinger.

Upcoming Classes:

Using LinkedIn to Aide Your Job Search Thursday May 1: Learn how to use LinkedIn to enhance your job search, build professional connections, and stay updated on industry trends. Discover tips to create a strong profile that stands out to employers.

Introduction to Microsoft Word Day 1: Tuesday May 6, Day 2: Thursday May 8, Day 3 May 13: This three-session class covers the evolution of word processing, how Word has shaped document creation, and key functions, settings, and tools. Learn how to use tables and templates, follow best practices for professional documents, and practice applying Word to everyday tasks.

Introduction to Microsoft Excel Day1: Thursday, May 15 Day 2: Tuesday, May 20 Day 3 Thursday, May 22:  Learn what Excel is and how it’s used in real life. This class covers basic functionality like rows, columns, cells, and data entry. You'll also learn simple formulas and functions, budgeting basics, and an introduction to pivot tables and charts.

Microsoft Excel Advanced Tuesday, May 27:  This one-day class is for those who’ve completed our Excel basics or have prior experience. Topics include VLookup, HLookup, and XLookup; customizing pivot tables and charts; and creating presentation-ready Excel sheets

Later on, May:

On Thursday,May 22. The Career & Life Club will present Brenda Buxbaum from Norwescap CFRS (Children & Family Services).

This virtual presentation will be held at Noon on Microsoft Teams. Brenda will share vital tips and advice on Need assistance finding daycare. Would you like to learn more about child development markers? You can learn that and more as well as learning about Norwescap's Children & Family Services from CFRS's.  You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and engage in one-on-one discussions.

You may call to register:

• Somerset County clients: Call (908-900-0060 x1503) or text (908-899-1444) Sam Ricker.
• All other clients: Call (908-788-1453) or text (908-824-0582) Terry Sickinger.

This event is exclusive to Norwescap CLTC participants, but everyone is welcome to become a participant. Contact our intake specialists for pre-qualification.

We are here for you!

Somerset County is an equal opportunity employer and committed to providing a workplace free of harassment or discrimination. All employment decisions are to be made without regard to race, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, pregnancy, national origin/ancestry, citizenship, physical/mental disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Below are current job openings at Richard Hall Community Health and Wellness Center:

Art Therapist

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/2113/2372

Billing Specialist

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/2111/2372

Case Manager – AOTS (P/T)

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/871/2372

Care Navigator

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/2043/2372

Harm Reduction Case Manager Bilingual

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/2041/2372

Licensed Mental Health Practitioner

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/2109/2372?npage=2

Peer Recovery Support Coach

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/2027/2372?npage=2

Peer Recovery Support Specialist CCBHC

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/2031/2372?npage=2

Senior Medical Records Specialist 

https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/Home/Components/JobPosts/Job/2107/2372?npage=3

If you require assistance completing the online employment application, you may contact Human Resources at employment@co.somerset.nj.us or 908.231.7120.