Dear Residents,

Northwest Bergen Regional Health Commission is proud to share our monthly spotlight on two community organizations that offer vital services to residents in Bergen County:

Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative (BVMI)

The Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative (BVMI) provides free (in-person and telehealth appointments) medical care to over 1,000 patients annually. This organization is comprised of over 75 volunteer healthcare professionals and highly trained nurse practitioners that can aid in catering to diverse patient populations within Bergen County. BVMI does not discriminate against any person based on their race, sexual orientation, country of origin, age, or those differently abled.

Clear emphasis on a patient-centered approach to achieving equitable, high-quality healthcare is a priority for BVMI. Ongoing care is provided to patients with chronic conditions and illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, etc. There is an array of preventative, chronic, and urgent care services available. This can include medication monitoring, educational information on nutrition and exercise, and annual wellness exams.

To learn more about patient services, qualifications, and eligibility, please visit: https://www.bvmi.org/
Bergen Hearts

Bergen HEARTS assists individuals and families who are experiencing urgency with seeking shelter. This also includes individuals or families seeking to transition to a safe and secure living environment while overcoming any challenges they may face. Their mission is to rapidly transition families from a state of homelessness to a state of housing permanency and building self-sufficiency.

Individuals and families are welcome to set up an interview with the HEARTS Coordinated Assessment Intake Specialist (CAIS). The purpose of this intake screening is to review essential needs such as housing, access to financial/government resources, supplemental food benefits, childcare support, mental health resources, domestic violence cases, and issues with substance misuse.

Upon completion of the evaluation process, connection to appropriate social support linkages will be made available. Intensive case management support and leveraged advocacy efforts would be provided by the HEARTS program or a community-based agency based on the appropriate level of care required.

This facility is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 4:45 P.M. It is strongly advised that those who are seeking same-day placement arrive before 2:00 P.M. There is a 10-unit maximum capacity for emergency shelter.

For more information, please call (201) 488-2525 or visit:

https://www.co.bergen.nj.us/hearts-homeless-family-services

Take care and be well,

NWBRHC Staff