Behind the Scenes of Safety: Why Public Health is the Foundation of a Stronger New Jersey

Funding at Risk, Families in Danger: The Case for Investing in New Jersey’s Public Health

FREEHOLD, NEW JERSEY – December 10, 2024 – Clean drinking water. Safe places to eat. Protection against dangerous diseases. These aren’t things most people think about—but Public Health works behind the scenes to make them happen every day.

New Jersey’s Public Health professionals safeguard the health of 9.3 million residents across 564 communities. They inspect daycare centers, ensure safe dining, administer vaccines, and prevent crises before they happen.

But cracks in the system could put your family at risk:

• Some New Jerseyans live nearly 10 years longer than others, depending on access to health resources.
• Overdose rates are rising in counties like Essex and Camden County, showing the urgent need for stronger addiction support.

Without sustained investment, these problems will grow, putting families at risk and overwhelming emergency services. In 2010, public health funding made up 15% of local health department budgets, but it was cut in 2011 and never restored.

Now, local departments rely on property taxes and occasional grants, creating an unstable system. To make matters worse, New Jersey ranks 31^st in state public health funding per person and last in CDC grant funding. These gaps leave health departments struggling to maintain staff and essential programs that protect our communities.

A Safer New Jersey Starts with Public Health

Investing in Public Health protects your family and your community:

• Better access to essentials: Clean water, safe housing, and health resources keep families stable.
• Community preparedness: Local Public Health departments help fill gaps and run shelters in emergencies.
• Peace of mind: Public Health is there when you need it, saving time, worry, and emergency costs. Every $1 spent on prevention can save up to $5.60 in emergency and medical costs.

“Think of Public Health like electricity,” said Linda Brown, Executive Director of the New Jersey Association of County and City Health Officials (NJACCHO). “You might not notice a small disruption, but when services are broadly lost, the consequences can quickly become serious.”

Take Action Today

The campaign launches with:

• A website: www.WeAreNJPH.org, where you can learn how Public Health impacts your family.
• A fresh rallying cry captured in a video: See how Public Health impacts communities across New Jersey.
• Social media updates: Follow along on Facebook (We Are NJPH) and Instagram (@we.are.NJPH).

Want to do more? Ask your government representative how they’re supporting Public Health in your community. You can find yours here.

New Jersey’s local Public Health system works tirelessly to protect your family—but it needs consistent support to meet today’s challenges. Visit www.WeAreNJPH.org to learn more and get involved—because keeping your family safe starts with a strong community.