By: Najla Alexander
Union County officials announced that the Union County Prosecutor’s Office, in partnership with the Union County Board of Commissioners and Union County Police Chiefs Association, has launched a groundbreaking initiative.
According to UCPO authorities, the initiative is to further enhance mental health education by offering Mental Health First Aid [MHFA] training and certification to all Union County First Responders.
Beginning in 2024, UCPO officials say, with the advice and input of the Linden and Elizabeth Police Departments and in partnership with the NJ Department of Human Services, the Union County Prosecutor’s Office offered 11 Mental Health First Aid training sessions and certified nearly 300 individuals.
In January of 2025, the second phase of this initiative was launched when trainers from the National Council for Mental Well-being were enlisted to conduct an MHFA Instructor Certification Course for Union County First Responders, according to Union County authorities.
With funding provided by the Office of the Attorney General ARRIVE Together grant, sixteen dedicated individuals from partnered law enforcement agencies across Union County attended this three-day session, Union County officials. They are now fully certified to train their colleagues, ensuring widespread access to crucial mental health knowledge and skills within the first responder community.
UCPO authorities stated that the ultimate goal of this initiative is to integrate MHFA certification into every Union County police recruit class, conduct regular in-service training for all first responders, and cultivate a culture of mental health awareness and support within the law enforcement community.
“This program represents a significant step forward in our commitment to prioritizing the mental well-being of our first responders," said Union County Prosecutor William Daniel.
"By equipping our officers with the knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to mental health challenges, we are not only improving their ability to serve our community but also ensuring their own well-being.”
Elizabeth Police Chief Giacomo Sacca echoes the importance of this initiative throughout Union County.
"I cannot emphasize the importance of advanced mental health training for our first responders. The safety of the public relies on our people having the knowledge and training necessary to accomplish their mission safely. I am grateful for our partners bringing the training into reality."
“The Linden Police Department is glad to partner with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office and the Union County Police Chief’s Association in the implementation of countywide training in Mental Health First Aid,” stated Linden Police Chief David Hart.
This initiative is a testament to the collaboration and partnership of Union County first responders, county agencies, and service providers who are dedicated to enhancing community responses for those facing mental health challenges and enhancing mental health support within their own agencies, Union County officials said.