By: Richard L. Smith
With community social services spirit at the forefront and years of determination, RLS Media attended Isaiah House’s ribbon cutting. This morning, the grand reopening of its original building on 14th Street celebrated a new beginning.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held at 10 a.m., marked a significant milestone for the nonprofit, which has been a cornerstone of support for families and individuals in crisis in East Orange since 1988.
The event drew an enthusiastic crowd, including stakeholders, supporters, and local leaders.
Executive Director Zammeah Bivins-Gibson led the gathering and recognized the collective efforts that made the renovation possible.
“Completing the 14th Street building renovation has been a true labor of love,” she said, acknowledging the commitment of Isaiah House’s partners.
Standing in the front corner of one of the larger spaces, she emotionally extended heartfelt thanks to supporters such as Ms. Lee, Alexa Ralff of AHR Designs, Jane Kampner, Alexis Varbero of Schwartz Design Center, and local photographers Aimee Ryan and Lisa Rayman Goldfarb, each of whom played an essential role in this accomplishment.
For over 35 years, Isaiah House has provided emergency shelter, housing, and social services to some of the most vulnerable members of East Orange and its neighboring communities.
Its programs focus on empowering people to achieve stability and independence through a compassionate approach.
After walking through the entire house myself it was clear that the reopening of the 14th Street building, lovingly restored by local designers and community advocates, represents a renewed commitment to this mission.
The facility is gorgeous.
“This building has always been the heart of Isaiah House, and its reopening marks a new chapter in our ongoing commitment to supporting our community,” said Bivins-Gibson.
Alongside the reopening, Isaiah House introduced its HEAL (Healthcare Equity to Advance Life) Program, a new initiative designed to address the growing need for addiction recovery services.
The HEAL Program aims to provide comprehensive, evidence-based support to individuals recovering from opioid addiction, offering medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and stable housing to help participants achieve long-term recovery.
The newly renovated 11-bedroom building, which includes a blend of restored and modernized spaces, captivated attendees.
The interconnected design of the three adjoining houses, linked by catwalks, showcases a unique blend of history and innovation.
Bivins-Gibson reflected on her journey at Isaiah House, where she began as Program Director, working with pregnant and non-pregnant teenage girls in state care.
Today, as Executive Director, she leads the organization into a new phase of growth and service.
“We have to find consistent supporters to keep this space operational,” Bivins-Gibson remarked. “While we receive some government support, we aim to rely on the wider community’s generosity to sustain this vital resource.”
Her appeal for continued partnership underscored the organization's mission to uplift those it serves.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was more than just an event—it was a celebration of Isaiah House’s impact on the lives of many and a hopeful step forward.