Middlesex Starts Job Program For Residents Affected By Opioid Epidemic

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ – Middlesex County has started a new program for residents who have been directly or indirectly impacted by the opioid pandemic.

The County has started the new and free Pathways to Recovery employment program for residents ages 18 and up, to assist those impacted by the opioid epidemic through education, training, and assistance in finding gainful, long-term employment.

Residents enrolled in the program will be provided with support from a personal Career Counselor to develop their individual employment plan and goals; get access to supportive services to overcome employment barriers; and be able to increase marketable job skills.

“The Pathways to Recovery program will provide crucial support to people impacted by the opioid crisis who are looking for full-time employment. I encourage any resident who thinks they may qualify, to apply,” Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios said in a statement.

“The opioid epidemic has hurt our community and for those suffering from addiction, loss of job stability is a real issue but resources like this can assist in the long road to recovery.”

To be eligible for the program individuals must be:

• A resident of Middlesex County
• Aged 18+
• Unemployed or underemployed for at least six months
• Have a personal history of opioid use or have a friend, family member, or neighbor with a history of opioid use

“The opioid epidemic is not new, the nation spent decades trying to find a solution and the financial hardships associated with this crisis,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Chanelle Scott McCullum.

“But here in Middlesex County, we are working tirelessly to aid those afflicted by helping them gain long-term employment, and Pathways to Recovery is an indispensable program to achieve that.”

Applications are now open and can be found at middlesexcountynj.gov/pathways and can be filled out in English and in Spanish. The deadline to apply is Jan. 31, 2024.

For more information, contact Middlesex County Pathways to Recovery Program Coordinator Joanne Vas at Joanne.Vas@dol.nj.gov, or 732-745-2371.