During a recent government meeting, community advocates from Jersey City emphasized the urgent need for enhanced mental health and substance abuse support services. A representative from Our Lady of Sorrows Church and the Jersey City Together Health and Safety Committee highlighted ongoing efforts to hire outreach workers for emergency calls involving individuals facing mental health crises or substance abuse issues.

The speaker acknowledged progress made through a grant from the Hudson County Anti-Violence Coalition and the city's participation in the Arrive Together program, which aims to address these critical issues. However, they expressed concern over the lack of a public ceremony to promote the program and called for community input to ensure it effectively serves residents' needs.

The speaker urged the city to implement these programs around the clock, advocating for a standard of 24/7 availability to meet the public's health and safety requirements. They also noted that $1.2 million allocated for mental health initiatives remains unspent and offered to collaborate on strategies to utilize these funds effectively.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment to advocate for the mental health needs of Jersey City residents, with community leaders pledging to continue pushing for necessary programs and services.