YMCA Launches Mental Health Program for 350 Students at 21 After-School Sites

The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance kicked off the Bright Path Youth Mental Health program with a $200,000 grant from The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey. This initiative will introduce mental health lessons into 21 after-school care programs across the state. It will reach 350 children in kindergarten through sixth grade.

Officials announced the statewide pilot Oct. 30 at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA. The Horizon Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey.

“At the Y, we believe every child deserves to feel supported, connected, and confident,” said Julie Gallanty, president and CEO of the YMCA State Alliance, per the Monmouth Journal.com. “Thanks to Horizon, our staff are gaining the training and tools to nurture children’s mental well-being right where they already feel at home — in their YMCA after-school programs.”

The Bright Path curriculum will blend lessons on emotional well-being, communication, and connection into everyday activities at participating sites. Seven organizations will put the program into practice. These include Raritan Bay Area YMCA, Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA, Lakeland Hills YMCA, Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, Montclair YMCA, YMCA of the Jersey Shore, and Westfield YMCA.

Gallanty pointed out the pilot comes at a time when youth mental health concerns are rising nationwide. She added the need for early, accessible support has never been greater. “Together, we’re helping kids build resilience and a stronger sense of belonging,” Gallanty said.

Alejandrina Batista oversees mental health services at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA. She stressed how crucial the focus on youth mental health is. Challenges show up earlier now. They appear more often, too. This impacts families.

Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin and Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez, D-19th District, praised the initiative as a community partnership that strengthens families. Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin Caba said the program reflects the kind of partnership that bolsters families and the city.

Families will take part in pre- and post-program surveys. The feedback aims to help the organization measure gains in confidence, connection and well-being.

In Monmouth County, the program is available at Point Road School in Little Silver, Strathmore Elementary School in Aberdeen, and West Freehold Elementary School in Freehold.

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