Union County Community Steps Up Efforts To Address Opioid Addiction, Mental Health

LINDEN, NJ — A new effort in Linden is aimed at expanding support for residents facing opioid addiction, substance use challenges and mental health concerns.

Mayor Derek Armstead announced the launch of the Linden Opioid Eradication and Abatement Initiative, a citywide program focused on education, prevention and connecting residents with available support services.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to address the challenges surrounding addiction and mental health in the community, while encouraging residents to seek help without stigma or fear of judgment.

“Addressing the opioid crisis and mental health challenges requires a compassionate and aggressive community response,” Armstead said in a statement. “This initiative is about saving lives, erasing the stigma of addiction, and ensuring every resident has access to the resources they need to heal.”

As part of the initiative, Linden will host the Safe Haven Community Kickoff on Saturday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to noon at First Baptist Church of Linden, located at 929 Dill Avenue.

The free event will bring together residents, healthcare professionals, faith leaders and local advocates to share information and connect attendees with resources related to addiction recovery, mental health and prevention.

The program builds on Linden’s existing Mayor’s Wellness Campaign and the city’s “Stigma-Free” designation, which was established through a city resolution in spring 2026.

According to the city, the designation is intended to support residents dealing with mental health and substance use disorders by promoting awareness and reducing the stigma often associated with seeking help.

Linden is also highlighting the green ribbon, an international symbol of mental health awareness, as part of the effort to show support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges or those in recovery.

The opioid crisis has affected communities throughout New Jersey, including towns across Union County, where local officials, healthcare providers and community organizations have continued efforts focused on prevention, treatment and recovery resources.

The Safe Haven Community Kickoff is free and open to the public.

For more information, residents can contact the Mayor’s Office at 908-474-8493 or visit the City of Linden.