Middlesex County launches Pathways to Recovery

Residents impacted by the opioid epidemic are encouraged to apply for this free employment program

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ – Residents seeking employment who have been impacted, directly or indirectly, by the opioid epidemic now have an opportunity to apply for the Middlesex County Pathways to Recovery program led by the Office of Workforce and Career Development. Applications are now open and can be found at middlesexcountynj.gov/pathways and can be filled out in English and in Spanish. The deadline to apply is January 31, 2024.

Pathways to Recovery is a free employment program created for Middlesex County residents ages 18 and up to assist individuals who have been impacted by the opioid epidemic through education, training, and assistance in finding gainful, long-term employment. Individuals enrolled in the program will be provided with support from a personal Career Counselor to develop their own individual employment plan and goals; get access to supportive services to overcome employment barriers; and be able to increase marketable job skills.

“The Pathways to Recovery program will provide crucial support to people impacted by the opioid crisis who are looking for full-time employment. I encourage any resident who thinks they may qualify, to apply,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “The opioid epidemic has hurt our community and for those suffering from addiction, loss of job stability is a real issue but resources like this can assist in the long road to recovery.”

To be eligible for the program individuals must be:

• A resident of Middlesex County
• Aged 18+
• Unemployed or underemployed for at least six months
• Have a personal history of opioid use OR have a friend, family member, or neighbor with a history of opioid use

“The opioid epidemic is not new, the nation spent decades trying to find a solution and the financial hardships associated with this crisis,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum. “But here in Middlesex County, we are working tirelessly to aid those afflicted by helping them gain long-term employment, and Pathways to Recovery is an indispensable program to achieve that.”

Pathways to Recovery provides individualized support services, including:

• Education and Training: Participants will have the opportunity to build on their employment history and experience by learning new skills and gaining industry-certified credentials.
• Employment: Career exploration activities will educate participants on occupational skillset requirements to align with personal interests and individual strengths, providing a pathway to success in the chosen field and future opportunities for advancement.
• Additional Support: This program offers transportation assistance, childcare services, legal assistance, housing services, wraparound mental health care, substance use disorder recovery services, occupational uniforms and/or professional work attire, work-related tools/protective equipment, and other related needs-based payment assistance.

Residents should apply now for the Pathways to Recovery program at middlesexcountynj.gov/pathways. The deadline to apply is January 31, 2024.

For more information, please contact Middlesex County Pathways to Recovery Program Coordinator Joanne Vas via email: Joanne.Vas@dol.nj.gov, or phone: 732-745-2371.

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MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ 

Middlesex County is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, three universities, 19 park systems, and world-class healthcare and research facilities making it one of the nation’s most dynamic regions and a leader in technology, transportation, the arts, and food innovation. As one of the most diverse populations in the country, Middlesex County is home to over 860,000 residents living throughout 25 municipalities. The County’s award-winning Middlesex County Magnet Schools system and two-year Middlesex College uphold its position as #1 in the state for best schools, offering secondary and postsecondary education and workforce development programs that create a unique ecosystem where opportunities abound. Conveniently located between New York and Philadelphia, Middlesex County is a leading destination for businesses and residents alike to live, work, and play – and has been since the 17th century. For more information, visit middlesexcountynj.gov and find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.