Buying Ice Cream In Ridgewood Monday Will Support Mental Health Services

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — Buying ice cream at the Ben and Jerry's in Ridgewood on Monday night will raise funds and awareness for behavioral health support, said a local non-profit.

The scoop shop is partnering with Care Plus NJ f0r a three-hour event.

Care Plus NJ is a nonprofit that provides children and adults with behavioral health services, substance use disorder support, and primary care medical care. Their foundation has given financial support to people in need, as well.

Care Plus NJ staff will be on-site at 104–106 Franklin Ave. from 6-9 p.m. scooping ice cream, sharing practical coping strategies, and connecting community members with resources to support behavioral health and overall well-being, they said.

The event is free and open to the public.

Guests are encouraged to purchase ice cream during the event, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Care Plus Foundation.

The Care Plus Foundation provides financial assistance to help individuals and families overcome life’s challenges and access essential support. Assistance may include medication support for behavioral health conditions and addiction recovery, rent and utility assistance to help prevent eviction and homelessness, groceries and personal care items, therapeutic services for children and families, educational and professional scholarships, and access to basic technology to help individuals stay connected.

Jaime Arlia, executive senior vice president of clinical services and Executive Director of the Care Plus NJ Foundation, said, “It’s a relaxed setting where people can grab a scoop, ask questions, and walk away with practical tools to support their well-being. We’re grateful to Ben & Jerry’s for opening their doors and helping us connect with the community in such a meaningful way.”

In 2025, the Care Plus Foundation provided more than $190,000 in assistance to over 190 individuals, children, and families.

To learn more about Care Plus NJ, visit https://careplusnj.org/.