Mercer County Establishes New Office Of LGBTQIA+ Affairs

MERCER COUNTY, NJ — County Executive Dan Benson recently signed an ordinance passed by the Mercer County Board of Commissioners, establishing a new Office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs.

The office will assist members of the LGBTQIA+ community in navigating government programs and accessing services that support job training, housing, and economic development.

“Mercer's vibrant LGBTQIA+ community plays a vital role in our success, yet this population too often faces barriers in housing, health care, and access to government assistance,” Benson said.

“The new Office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs will be an essential resource to ensure that Mercer’s LGBTQIA+ residents and business owners can navigate federal, state, county, and non-profit resources to receive the help they need.”

Commissioner Chair John Cimino said that asking for help can be easier for some and by creating this office, the County positions itself to better serve the LGBTQIA+ community.

The will also assess needs within the LGBTQIA+ community, provide educational materials to help members of the community understand their legal rights, and support government outreach.

“I ran for public office to assist vulnerable communities," Commissioner Nina Melker said. "Being the mother of a daughter, who is LGBTQIA+, we are a proud PRIDE family. My daughter and her wife have built an amazing life. This new office will put Mercer County in a better position to serve the LGBTQIA+ community.”

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