injury preventioo photoThe Division of Injury Prevention's mission is to reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths in Jersey City, by consistent engagement with and responsiveness to the people most affected, and informed by the best available data and evidence-based practices. This is a part of building a culture of health throughout all neighborhoods, towards a Healthier Jersey City.

The Division of Injury Prevention has initiatives in several key areas: violence prevention, community mental health, and trauma recovery.

VIOLENCE PREVENTION

Violence is a health issue. It cuts lives short, is the cause of great pain and suffering, and is costly to the communities affected by violence. Violence can also be treated by public health methods used to control the spread of diseases.

The Survivor Network provides support and community for victims and survivors of violence.

The Jersey City-Newark Violence Prevention Coalition meets regularly to share learning and best practices for violence intervention programs. Funded by a grant from County Health Rankings & Roadmaps

Contact us about violence prevention:
[email protected]
(201) 547-6806

PEACEFUL FAMILIES

The HealthierJC Peaceful Families Initiative offers supportive education to change abusive behavior in families and domestic relationships. 

Referral Process
Participants hear about, or are referred to Peaceful Families for a HealthierJC, from a number of places. A participant might be appropriate for BIP services if they are:

  • A Jersey City resident
  • Have been disrespectful, abusive, or violent in your relationship and would like help
  • Are in a Jersey City diversion program or other court case related to violence in a relationship
  • Have recently been released from incarceration
  • Are recommended as part of a Jersey City Family Court Case or Custody Case

What is the purpose of the Peaceful Families for a HealthierJC?
To help residents of Jersey City build skills to engage in strong, healthy relationships free from cruelty, abuse, and violence.

What does the Peaceful Families for a Healthier JC provide?
It is a trauma-focused, cognitive-behavioral program for individuals who have harmed or used battering behavior in relationships. Participants are most often referred through diversion, parole, probation, child welfare agencies, attorneys, or a self-referral process. FPI offers groups for the following populations:

  • LGBTQ+
  • Men
  • Spanish-language
  • Women

What should participants expect?
First of all, everyone can expect respect and consideration. Everyone has the capacity for change. We know it takes a tremendous amount of courage to walk through the doors, or dial the number to get an appointment. Our commitment to provide you services with compassion, integrity, and expertise. Those who “walk through our doors” are about to embark on a journey toward transformational change, and we want to honor that commitment.

What are the Requirements for Completion?
The course includes an initial intake, an orientation class, and a minimum of 26 weekly group sessions. Participants will complete a course workbook and fulfill the 18th and Final Week requirements. Participants receive one credit for the orientation, and one credit for each of the 26 weekly group sessions they are able to successfully attend in accordance with program requirements.

Participants must earn 27 total credits in order to successfully complete the program.



COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH

Mental health is one of the foundations of a Healthier Jersey City. The Division of Injury prevention provides mental health training and support in several ways.

Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)

MHFA trains ordinary people to recognize and assist people with mental health and substance use issues, like CPR for mental health. Mental and emotional issues are health issues. Like other health issues, earlier detection and treatment produces better results and reduces suffering. MHFA will prepare you to help those in need get the help they need. Our new online course is offered several days every week including weekends and at varied times.

To see our schedule of classes, visit http://tinyurl.com/HealthierJC-MHFAonline.  

Selected in-person courses may also be available. If you would like to schedule either on-line or in-person courses for a group, please contact us at [email protected].

Funded by a grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Crisis Resources
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, please reach out. Mental Health Crisis Resources 2020-05.pdf

Contact us about our mental health programming (non-emergency):

[email protected]
(201) 547-6806