New ‘Safe Space’ In Nutley Helps People With Drug, Alcohol Addictions

NUTLEY, NJ — There’s a new place to reach out for help if you’re struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction in Nutley.

The Nutley Resource Recovery Informational Center provides aid and education to people who are experiencing drug and alcohol addiction, or mental health issues.

Sharon Lemma-Bozza, the deputy registrar for the Nutley Department of Public Affairs and Health, and Vincent DeNotaris, the Nutley Department of Public Affairs’ veterans addiction counselor, recently spoke about the new initiative on an edition of the “Inside Nutley” podcast (watch the video below).

The initiative is relatively new, having launched about four months ago.

According to Lemma-Bozza, people can come to the office at 149 Chestnut Street and get information about available resources – for themselves, or a loved one. They can also find someone willing to lend an open ear in a non-judgmental way.

“They can come here, it’s a safe space,” Lemma-Bozza said. “It’s confidential. And they can speak to [us], or they can just come and pick up a few packets and be on their way.”

“This is the place to come find out where to take the next step,” Lemma-Bozza said.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site. Don’t forget to visit the Patch Belleville-Nutley Facebook page.