Somerset County News

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul M. Drake, Commissioner

For Immediate Release

May 25, 2023

Help Curb Hunger, Donate to Curbing Hunger Month in June

SOMERVILLE, NJ – June is Curbing Hunger Month, and this year marks the 29th anniversary of the Curbing Hunger Inc. food drive when the non-profit organization collects food donations for Somerset County families in need. The Food Bank Network of Somerset County, serving more than 24,000 families each year, receives the donations and distributes food to food-bank clients and other local food pantries.

“During the summer months food supplies are low because school lunch programs close and there are no holiday food drives. The county sponsors the food drive to help alleviate this shortage,” said Somerset County Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson. “We are extremely grateful for the generous residents who donate to the program.”

Curbing Hunger Night at TD Bank Ballpark, Tuesday, May 30
Baseball fans can watch an exciting baseball game between the Portland Sea Dogs and the Somerset Patriots at TD Bank Ballpark and donate to Curbing Hunger on Tuesday, May 30. Donators can drop off canned goods at the entrance of the ballpark where Curbing Hunger, Inc. representatives will be to collect donations.

How to Donate
Donating is easy. Look for an orange plastic bag tied to the handle of your county recycling bin – or if you do not receive an orange bag, use any plastic grocery bag and write the word “food” on it. Place canned food donations in one or more bags at the curb on your regularly scheduled recycling collection days from June 1 through 30. Watch the video.

“Donating online is a healthy alternative for people that don’t want to donate with their recycling. Just visit our website to select fresh fruits and vegetables, and the produce will be delivered directly to the Food Bank Network,” said Curbing Hunger Board President Chuck Knill. “We are grateful for any donations; whichever way people choose to donate.”

Online Donations
Donate online to have food delivered to the Food Bank Network of Somerset County. To donate, click here or visit www.Curbinghunger2023.org.

Monetary Donations
Send a check made payable to Curbing Hunger, Inc. at 140 South Finley Ave., Basking Ridge, NJ 07920.

About Curbing Hunger, Inc.
In 1995, Curbing Hunger Inc. began as a pilot program in Somerset County and since then has expanded to several other counties in New Jersey. Curbing Hunger Month is made possible by the Somerset County Board of Commissioners, the Food Bank Network of Somerset County, Franklin Township Food Bank, Somerset County Public Works Department, TD Bank Ballpark and Curbing Hunger, Inc.

Other supporters include the Crenel Family Foundation MyCentralJersey.com, the Courier News, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church of Basking Ridge, Amp Your Good and #Give Healthy.

To stay up-to-date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Paul Drake, Commissioner Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner

May 19, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Youth Leadership Somerset Accepting Applications

Empowering Youth to Lead with Purpose

Youth Leadership Somerset, a community leadership program for Somerset County youth entering grades 10-12, is accepting applications for the 2023-2024 program year, which runs from September through May. Classes are held one Saturday per month from roughly 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. All sessions are held in Somerset County, and most take place in Somerville. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, June 11.

Youth Leadership Somerset gives participants an opportunity to develop their leadership skills and form connections with peers from across the county. Through presentations by community leaders, small group challenges, and interactive programming, participants explore a wide variety of subjects including the environment, mental health, law enforcement, emergency response, housing, economic development, recycling, local government, justice, healthcare, culture, and leadership.

The application is available on the county website here – Youth Leadership Somerset Application 2023/2024.

Candidates will be selected by mid-August. Those accepted to the program will receive a full scholarship to ensure that financial status is not a barrier.

Feedback from past participants:

“Youth Leadership Somerset gave me a broader perspective of the world and how I can impact the community around me now and in the future. For anyone interested in this program, it is a one in a lifetime opportunity and I’m so grateful for the experience.”

“Youth Leadership Somerset has been a wonderful place to ponder important economic and social questions. The sessions have been filled with discovery and growth.”

Developed by the Leadership Somerset Class of 2000, Youth Leadership Somerset is sponsored by the Somerset County Board of Commissioners. To learn about the adult leadership program, contact us at leadershipsomerset@co.somerset.nj.us or visit the website at Leadership Somerset.

For more information about applying to Youth Leadership Somerset, contact Melania Tchir at (732) 469-3363 or youthleadership@co.somerset.nj.us.

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News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul Drake, Commissioner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 15, 2023

Somerset County to Hold Free Document Shredding Event on May 20

‘Operation Secure Shred’ Helps Protect Residents Against Identity Theft

BRIDGEWATER, NJ – Help guard against identity theft by bringing personal documents to “Operation Secure Shred.” Residents can take advantage of this FREE, easy and secure way to dispose of personal documents on Saturday, May 20, at the Somerset County Public Works Garage, North County Facility located at 411 Chimney Rock Road, Bridgewater, New Jersey 08807 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., or until the trucks are filled. The event will occur rain or shine.

Residents should be prepared to unload the items to be shredded from their vehicles. Staff will be available to assist them if necessary.

Proof of Residency

Residents must be prepared to present a current driver’s license, valid lease, tax bill or any other bill that shows proof of a Somerset County address. Pre-registration is not required. Businesses and commercial vehicles are NOT allowed.

Attend Any Shredding Event

Residents from all 21 Somerset County municipalities can attend as many shredding events as they like and can participate even if they do not reside in the towns that are holding the events. To view a list of dates and locations for shredding events, visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/shredding.

Items Accepted

Participants can bring up to six boxes, containers, or bags of documents per visit, but they will be required to take back their receptacles. Staples and paperclips do not have to be removed.

Items Not Accepted

Junk mail, magazines and newspapers will NOT be accepted.

For more information about “Operation Secure Shred,” contact the Somerset County Public Works Department at 908-203-6018 or email publicworks@co.somerset.nj.us.

Identity Theft

Victims of identity theft can visit the Federal Trade Commission’s online one-stop resource center, which provides a step-by-step process for recovering from identity theft and downloadable resources. Learn more, visit IdentityTheft.gov.

To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul M. Drake, Commissioner

For Immediate Release

May 10, 2023

Somerset County Launching Programs and Sponsoring Events during Mental Health Awareness Month

‘Stigma-Free’ Conference on May 19 Open to All

(L-R) Somerset County Commissioner Deputy Director Doug Singleterry

recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month with Department of Human Services Addiction

Services Director Lisa Federico and Behavioral Health Navigator Stephanie Billitz.

SOMERVILLE, NJ – Somerset County is recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month in May by offering events and launching a new mobile outreach van to bring local attention and solutions to a nationwide mental health crisis.

About one-fifth of Americans have diagnosable mental health conditions, in any one year, and 23 million Americans have substance use disorders, according to the National Alliance for Mental Illness. “Almost 67,000 people are struggling here in Somerset County,” said Commissioner Paul M. Drake, human services liaison. “The county’s goal is to provide as much information, education and access to services and programs as possible to help serve and support our residents.”

The Somerset County Board of County Commissioners this week passed a proclamation in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month and emphasized the importance of combatting social stigma that can be an obstacle to people getting the help they need.

As part of Somerset County’s commitment to destigmatizing negative stereotypes about mental health, the Human Services Department will host free events and launch new services this month.

• On May 19, there will be a “Stigma Free” conference at Raritan Valley Community College that will be free and open to the general public.
• On May 25, there will be a “YOUth Tell Us” forum in the Human Services offices in Somerville designed for youth in grades 8 to 12.
• In addition, the county is launching a Somerset HELPS mobile outreach van that will travel to communities that cannot easily travel to the county’s offices in Somerville where many services exist.

In recent months, the county has made other investments in mental health such as the expansion of the Richard Hall Health & Wellness Center in Bridgewater and in using funds from the national opioid settlement funds to establish a Behavioral Health System Navigator. Somerset County residents who need assistance locating mental health and substance-use disorder services, can now contact Behavioral Health System Navigator Stephanie Billitz at sbillitz@co.somerset.nj.us or call 908-203-6130.

“Too many of our neighbors and loved ones are dealing with mental health issues, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Meg Isbitski, the county’s Mental Health Administrator. “The county is doing everything it can to reach those residents in need of services.”

Free Conference and Teen Forum
“Stigma-Free” conference, May 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Raritan Valley Community College on 118 Lamington Road, Branchburg, NJ 08876. This is an educational, free event to help reduce negative stereotypes about mental health. The conference will provide learning modules, live testimonials, and community resources. Breakfast and lunch will be available. To register, click here.

“YOUth Tell Us” forum, May 25, 6 to 8 p.m., in Conference Room 1, at 27 Warren St., Somerville, NJ 08876. This forum is for youth in grades 8 to 12 for the purpose of gaining perspective and feedback about how they are feeling and experiencing mental health. There will be giveaways and refreshments. The program is made possible by Tri-County Care Management and the Somerset County Human Services Department. To register, click here.

Mobile Outreach Van
The county will introduce the “Somerset HELPS” van, which will function as a mobile human services hub, bringing needed information, resources, and services directly to families and communities throughout Somerset County.  It will also be a mobile food pantry and offer free books and giveaways. Bilingual social workers and other professionals will be available to provide information, resources, and referrals to services and assistance with applications to safety-net programs.

Somerset HELPS van schedule is listed below:

• May 19, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Raritan Valley Community College, Branchburg
• May 19, 4 to 8 p.m., Good Shephard Lutheran, 300 Union Ave., Somerville
• May 30, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., County Food Bank Network, 7E Easy, St., Bound Brook
• June 3, 8 to 11 a.m., Hillsborough Municipal Complex, 379 South Branch Road, Hillsborough

For more information, contact the Somerset County Department of Human Services Planning and Operations Administrator Zach Berliner at 908-704-6300, or ZBerliner@co.somerset.nj.us.

For general questions or comments about the Somerset County Department of Human Services, send an email to humanservices@co.somerset.nj.us or call 908-704-6300.

Stigma Free in Somerset County

The Stigma-Free Campaign is an initiative of the Somerset County Department of Human Services to raise awareness about the tangible impact that mental health stigma has on the community. Stigma is the practice of associating negative stereotypes with certain memberships or characteristics, such as substance-use disorders, race, social class, income, and intellectual or developmental disability status. This can create barriers and challenges that could be eliminated in relationships, housing, employment, and education. Many are ostracized, isolated, and rejected based on perceived differences and societal values. Embracing a stigma-free culture encourages dignity and respect for residents of Somerset County, reduces fear of judgment as a barrier, and celebrates the differences that make our community diverse and multi-faceted.

To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul M. Drake, Commissioner

May 10, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Greater Raritan Job Fair at Hindu Temple in Bridgewater Featuring 450-Plus Job Openings on May 16

Employers Can Still Participate

BRIDGEWATER, NJ – Job seekers will have opportunities to learn about and apply to a multitude of jobs at the 2023 Greater Raritan Job Fair where employers from Hunterdon and Somerset Counties have information about more than 450 job openings. The job fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 16 at the Hindu Temple and Cultural Society on Route 202-206 in Bridgewater. Job seekers do not need to register.

“Job seekers should be prepared to share their resumes, network with hiring managers, and gather career-related information from employers and agency participants during this free event,” said GRWDB Board Chair Joanne Hala.

More than 60 employers in Hunterdon and Somerset Counties, as well as employers in some surrounding counties have registered for this free event. The current list of employers with available job titles can be viewed here.

Local businesses and nonprofit agencies are offering hundreds of full-time and part-time jobs as well as some internships that range from entry-level to C-suite. Participating employers represent industry sectors such as animal welfare, banking, childcare and education, finance, government (state and county), healthcare, health and wellness, insurance, leisure and hospitality, life sciences, manufacturing, personal and family services, retail trade, sports, transportation and logistics, technology and veterinary care.

Employers Can Still Participate
There is still time for employers with full- and part-time positions, and internships to register by using the QR code in this flyer or this link. The deadline for employers to register is Friday, May 12.

Other Job-Seeker Resources
There will be a resource table with information from career-related agencies and organizations and other partners working with the GRWDB.

Job Resource Workshop
GRWDB staff will also lead a 30-minute workshop on available resources if enough individuals register. Individuals who would like to participate in the workshops can send an email to info@thegrwdb.org.

One-on-One Discussions
Rooms will be available for one-on-one discussions with employers as needed.

Lunch Available

A light lunch for job seekers will be available for a nominal fee.

Registration for the event is optional, but helpful for the event’s management. Job seekers may register at this link or use the QR code in this flyer. 

Job Fair Sponsors

This is the second consecutive year the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB), the New Jersey Department of Labor and the temple have collaborated on this event. Last year’s event drew more than 500 job seekers.

About the Greater Raritan Workforce Development Board (GRWDB)

The GRWDB oversees federally and state-funded career and employment services for businesses and residents in Hunterdon and Somerset counties.

Questions? Contact GRWDB Board Director Paul Grzella at grzella@co.somerset.nj.us, or 908-541-5790.   

Weekly text alerts highlight career and job opportunities in Somerset and Hunterdon counties. Text “onestop” to 565-12 to sign up.

LGBTQ+ Advisory Board to Host ‘Somerset County Pride’

Somerset County Pride will take place on Thursday, May 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.

BRIDGEWATER, NJ – The Somerset County LGBTQ+ Advisory Board invites residents to its third annual Somerset County Pride on Thursday, May 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Duke Island Park, located at 191 Old York Rd, Bridgewater, NJ 08807.

This BYOE (Bring Your Own Everything) event is family-friendly and will have resources and information for LGBTQ+ youth and adults, games, entertainment, and more. Members of the community will have the opportunity to make connections with each other and meet members of county government, departments, and boards. Participants will be able to find out what services are available and provide feedback on areas where needs are not being met.

For more information, contact Henry Young, Office of Youth Services, at 908-704-6352 or hyoung@co.somerset.nj.us.

LGBTQ+ Advisory Board
The Advisory Board supports diversity in Somerset County by raising public awareness and advocating for LGBTQ+ residents by promoting justice and equality, ending oppression and inequities, ensuring that all voices in the community are heard, and fostering mutual respect among residents and its leaders.

News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners

Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director Ÿ Doug Singleterry, Commissioner Deputy Director

Sara Sooy, Commissioner Ÿ Melonie Marano, Commissioner Ÿ Paul Drake, Commissioner

For Immediate Release

May 4, 2023
Contact Brad Fay at (908) 231-7628

Somerset County Explores Reduction of Jail Operations

Declining Inmate Population Prompts Strategic Assessment

SOMERVILLE, NJ –The Somerset County Board of County Commissioners and Sheriff Darrin Russo have jointly created a jail assessment working group to determine the future of the Somerset County Jail.

New Jersey’s landmark 2017 bail reform law, which prohibits courts from granting or denying bail based on who can pay, has significantly reduced the use of County jail cells of inmates awaiting trial.  The number of inmates statewide has decreased since New Jersey largely eliminated cash bail, and populations dropped further during the pandemic.  Over the last year the average number of Somerset County inmates held in the County facility has been 125 per day, which is about one-third of the capacity.

“The working group has just begun to investigate what a reduction of jail services looks like here in Somerset County,” said County Administrator Colleen Mahr. “The process will require Somerset County to find a place for its inmates in another facility, while still supporting local law enforcement and the Courts with the necessary transportation to, and from, jail.”

In addition, Somerset County will work with various employee unions, outside vendors, and the courts to ensure an orderly transition.

“I am committed to making sure that the dedicated uniform and civilian staff who have worked for the residents of Somerset County are treated fairly and with respect during this process,” said Sheriff Russo. “We will do our best to assist impacted employees.”

No specific timelines have been established for this process.

To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Learn the Telltale Signs of a Utility Scam

PSE&G urges customers to think twice if someone threatens to immediately shut off their power

(NEWARK, N.J. – May 3, 2023) PSE&G urges customers to be alert to utility scams – particularly scams demanding immediate bill payment. PSE&G continues to educate customers on how they can guard against becoming victims of impostor utility scams.

“Protecting our customers is a top priority. It is critically important we continue to raise awareness and educate customers about how to spot and stop potential scams,” said Jane Bergen, director of billing, Customer Care for PSE&G. “Scammers continue to adapt and develop increasingly sophisticated tactics to take advantage of our customers.”

Scammers continue to use calls, texts, emails and in-person tactics to contact utility customers often asking for immediate payment to avoid service disconnection. PSE&G would not send just one notification to a customer within an hour of a service disconnection. The company will also never ask customers to make payments with a prepaid debit card, gift card, any form of cryptocurrency or third-party digital payment via fund transfer applications. PSE&G offers a variety of payment options and would never require one specific type of payment.

Recent phone scams reported to PSE&G include demands for payment for past-due bills or priority meter installations. Often scammers will threaten to disconnect electric service if payment is not made immediately.

If a customer has doubts about the legitimacy of a call or an email — especially one in which payment is requested — call the company directly at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).

Signs of potential scam activity:

• Threat to disconnect: Scammers may aggressively tell the customer their utility bill is past due and service will be disconnected if a payment is not made — usually within an hour.
• Request for immediate payment: Scammers may instruct the customer to purchase a prepaid card, a gift card or even Bitcoin, and then to call them back to make a phone payment. Scammers may request that the customer use a payment app to make an online payment, or even give instructions for an in-person meeting. Many times after the customer makes the first payment, the scammer will call back to ask for the payment to be resubmitted due to an error with the amount. The scammer refers to a new amount and claims that the original payment will be refunded.
• In person-demands: Scammers may arrive at a home or business, flash a fake ID and/or claim to be a utility collection representative. The impostors may wear “uniforms” or affix false company signs to their vehicles. The scammers generally ask for personal information or offer discounts, which a real PSE&G representative would not do.
• Request for card information: If a customer calls back with requested information, the scammer asks the customer for the prepaid card’s number or gift-card PIN, which grants the scammer instant access to the card’s funds, and the victim’s money is gone.

Protect yourself against scams:

• Be alert to the telltale sign of a scam: someone asking by telephone or email for payment in pre-paid debit cards or a MoneyGram transfer, or to send money to an out-of-state address.
• Never arrange payment or divulge account or personal information, including Social Security numbers or debit or credit card information, over the telephone unless you are certain you are speaking to a PSE&G representative.
• Customers should also know what PSE&G will and won’t discuss over the phone. A genuine PSE&G representative will ask to speak to the “Customer of Record.” If that person is available, the representative will explain why they are calling and provide the account name, address and current balance. If the person on the phone does not provide the correct information, it is likely the customer is not speaking with a PSE&G representative.
• If the “Customer of Record” is not available, the PSE&G representative will not discuss the account at all and ask that a message be left for the “Customer of Record” to call 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).
• If a customer has doubts about the legitimacy of a call or an email — especially one in which payment is requested — call the company directly at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).

For more information on various payment scams reported in the PSE&G service area and around the country, visit pseg.com/scamalert.