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 Volunteers: CHEER & CHORE
Bergen Volunteers is a “community center without walls,” offering crucial programs for youth, seniors, and families. Their services transform lives by providing stability, promoting growth and independence, and building knowledge about resources available in our communities.

Two of the many community programs Bergen Volunteers offer are CHORE and CHEER.

In 1977, Bergen Volunteers implemented the CHORE program, which serves more than 14,000 Bergen County seniors and individuals with any health conditions or impairments that need home repairs and maintenance. CHORE assists those needing repair services such as installing grab bars, replacing outlets and switches, installing doorbells and locks, and changing light bulbs or smoke alarm batteries. Services can be scheduled between 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Labor is free and is intended to help disproportionately affected populations to remain safe in their homes.

In 2017, the CHEER program was adopted by Bergen Volunteers from the Visiting Homemakers of Bergen County. This program aims to forge companionship and long-lasting relationships between volunteers and clients. CHEER volunteers conduct weekly visits to help home-bound individuals with daily tasks and light errands. Providing a helping hand allows clients to live safely and independently in their homes.

To request CHORE or CHEER, please contact Michele Ogden at mogden@bergenvolunteers.org.

Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ)
The Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) is a state-wide non-profit organization that strives to improve the lives of children and adults with mental health and substance use disorders. Through advocacy, comprehensive education, skilled training, and services, the organization is committed to breaking barriers and reducing stigma that prevents individuals from seeking proper treatment and recovery. Individuals and caregivers of those coping with behavioral health issues can access a network that focuses on emotional, social, and community support.

To learn more about state and county offerings, please visit https://www.mhanj.org/we-support-individuals/.

Take care and be well,

NWBRHC Staff