Newark, New Jersey – Prevention Links, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering healthy communities, is proud to announce it has been awarded a grant of $124,149 by the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey.

This substantial funding will be channeled into “The Recovery Ecosystem: Integration of healthcare and recovery support services,” a groundbreaking project aimed at combating substance use disorders and related issues within the community. Prevention Links’ mission to empower individuals through education, collaboration, and resource linkages aligns seamlessly with the objectives of this grant, furthering their impact in creating sustainable community wellness.

“We are profoundly grateful for this opportunity presented by the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey. This grant will significantly enhance our efforts in integrating healthcare and recovery support services, directly impacting those battling substance use and co-occurring health conditions,” said Morgan Thompson (she/her), MSW, CEO, Prevention Links. “The Recovery Ecosystem project is more than just a program; it represents a vital step towards building a more comprehensive system of care where a person with a substance use disorder doesn’t fall through the cracks.”

The Recovery Ecosystem project is an innovative collaboration with Rutgers Infectious Disease Practice (IDP) in the city of Newark, focusing on providing non-clinical recovery support services to individuals affected by substance use disorders (SUD), particularly those with co-occurring HIV. In its initial year, the project supported 65 participants, and with this renewed funding, Prevention Links plans to expand its reach. The project’s unique approach integrates peer recovery specialists into the healthcare setting, addressing the complex needs of clients and enhancing overall treatment outcomes.

The grant from the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey is a crucial support for Prevention Links in their ongoing mission. The Recovery Ecosystem project is vital in addressing the intertwined challenges of SUD and infectious diseases, especially among vulnerable populations. This grant enables Prevention Links to further its work, reaching more individuals in need and making a tangible difference in their lives. The project is a step forward in achieving a comprehensive, integrated model of care that bridges gaps between healthcare services and community support.

About Prevention Links

Prevention Links is a private, nonprofit organization committed to fostering healthy, sustainable communities. By empowering people through education, collaboration, and linkages to resources, the organization takes a leadership role in the prevention of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and related issues. Prevention Links focuses on identifying and enhancing existing strengths within individuals, families, schools, and workplaces, implementing training programs and evidence-based strategies for community revitalization. 

To learn more about Prevention Links please visit https://preventionlinks.org

About The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey

The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey (HFNJ) is an independent, endowed grant-making organization dedicated to reducing disparities in the delivery of healthcare and improving access to quality healthcare for vulnerable populations in the greater Newark, NJ area and the Jewish community of Greater MetroWest NJ. It supports the infusion of compassion and humanism into the healthcare delivery system. Since its founding in 1996, The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey has granted nearly $172 million to 480 agencies. 

To learn more about HFNJ please visit www.hfnj.org