Morris Township Designated An 'Up And Coming' Healthy Town

MORRIS TOWNSHIP, NJ — For the first time, Morris Township has been designated a “Healthy Town Up-and-Coming” by the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute.

The award recognizes New Jersey towns that have "worked to make their communities healthier places to live" through innovative programs in exercise, healthy eating, and mental health awareness, according to the Mayors Wellness Campaign.

“Morris Township is honored to be recognized by the Quality Institute as a Healthy Town Up-and-Coming. We are proud to participate in the MWC led by our Health Administrator, Elizabeth Zalme. Liz has prioritized collaboration with many of our partners to focus on the health and well-being of our residents,” said Mayor Donna Guariglia.

The Mayors Wellness Campaign (MWC), a program of the Quality Institute in partnership with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities, recognized 32 Healthy Town winners. Additionally, 16 towns were named 2024 "Healthy Towns to Watch," and seven earned the "Healthy Town Up-and-Coming" designation.

The MWC is a statewide initiative that provides evidence-based tools and strategies to help mayors and community leaders improve residents' health.

"It’s incredible to see the MWC Healthy Town designations keep growing year after year. It’s proof that New Jersey’s community leaders aren’t just talking about health and wellness; they’re making it," said Mike Cerra, Executive Director of the New Jersey League of Municipalities. "From small towns to big cities, these leaders are showing up for their residents and building healthier, more vibrant communities.”

Each year, MWC communities submit a detailed application outlining their research on local health needs, the organization of their MWC committee, and the actions taken to make their towns healthier places to live, work, age and play.

In 2024, Morris Township was recognized for its responsiveness to resident needs, particularly focusing on the health and wellness concerns of older adults, one of the township’s most vulnerable populations.

"The importance of exercise/fitness, healthy eating habits, socialization, outdoor recreation, and mental health awareness will ensure our citizens maintain a balanced lifestyle, Guariglia added. "We want to continue to have a positive impact on the community’s overall health and quality of life and will work to achieve the Healthy Town designation."