Pascrell Commends Paterson’s Bloomberg Philanthropies Victory

City to receive $1 million to support its RealFix opioid treatment program

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) today celebrated the City of Paterson’s victory in the Bloomberg Philanthropies Global Mayors Challenge, a worldwide innovation competition that supports and spreads cities’ most promising ideas. Paterson’s Appropriate Medication-Assisted-Treatment Anytime, Anywhere program (RealFix) was awarded $1 million in addition to technical support and coaching over three years. The goal of Paterson’s RealFix program is to produce suboxone, a medication that can alleviate withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and protect against overdose. RealFix will also provide data-driven referrals to vetted Medication-Assisted Treatment providers.

“Congratulations to Mayor Sayegh and our entire city. Out of hundreds of entries from across the globe, we should be proud that Paterson’s initiative was recognized,” said Rep. Pascrell. “The danger of opioids and addiction in our homes and on our streets cannot be overstated. But, with Paterson’s RealFix program and initiatives like it, our communities will have a new tool in the battle against opioid addiction and to help at-risk individuals. Thanks to Mayor Sayegh and his administration for this noble effort and I commend them on their well-deserved award.”

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