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TOMS RIVER, NJ - The Ocean County Board of Commissioners has endorsed the initiatives outlined in the Mental Health Plan for 2027-2029, compiled by the Ocean County Mental Health Board and Professional Advisory Committee, to address mental health needs, service gaps, and barriers throughout Ocean County.
Informed by community input, the plan provides a framework for continued collaboration and consideration of future initiatives and opportunities, including outlining how best to continue providing access to services, coordination of care, early intervention, crisis response, and awareness of available resources.
Priorities include strengthening supports for youth transitioning from child to adult behavioral health services; expanding supportive housing and residential options; improving services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have co-occurring mental health needs; enhancing care for people experiencing both mental health and substance use disorders; advancing crisis response and awareness of resources such as 988; and reducing transportation and other barriers that limit access to care.
"The plan reflects the ongoing work of Ocean County and the Mental Health Board to listen to our community, hear directly from providers and families, and identify where we can continue to improve," said Ocean County Commissioner Sam Ellenbogen, who serves as the liaison to Mental Health Board and the Mental Health Administrator.
"We know there is always more work to be done when it comes to mental health," Ellenbogen said. "We will continue working closely with our community partners and behavioral health providers to make sure people who are struggling get the support, services, and care they need."
As Ocean County implements the 2027-2029 Mental Health Plan Update, competitive contracts for the provision of Behavior Health Services will be available for programs addressing identified community needs and priorities.
Interested organizations and providers are encouraged to monitor the Ocean County Procurement Portal for upcoming solicitations at procurement.opengov.com/portal/oceancounty.
The Ocean County Mental Health Plan Update 2027-2029 reflects a continued commitment to understanding the needs of residents, recognizing existing strengths, identifying gaps and barriers, and working collaboratively to improve access to behavioral health services throughout the County.
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