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New Saddle Brook Program Aims To Lift Up Vulnerable Residents

SADDLE BROOK, N.J. -- The Saddle Brook Community Partnership -- with its aim of connecting vulnerable residents with assistance and resources -- is now "online" and now ready to go.

Saddle Brook Mayor Robert White and Rev. Christopher Wolf discuss the new Community Partnership outreach program.

Photo Credit: Saddle Brook YouTube

But there's also a dedicated phone number, for folks to call.

"We're very excited about the prospect of strengthening the community through the Partnership," said Mayor Robert White.

White is a co-founder of the Partnership, and he explained that for nearly a year, community leaders have been meeting and planning to reach this point. The Partnership includes representatives from local government, emergency services, churches, schools, social services, senior citizens, scouts, youth and residents.

"It's been a healthy process of focusing on purpose, vision and bringing people together -- harnessing the power of community," said Rev. Christopher Wolf, of the First Reformed Church. He's a co-founder and moderator for the program.

The Partnership's stated purpose is "to identify, reach and lift up vulnerable township residents -- specifically isolated senior citizens, at-risk youth and struggling young families."

A video of White and Wolf explaining the Community Partnership is embedded above.

The Partnership has established new communication channels and selected a coordinator, White said. That is Howard Weinberg, Saddle Brook High School educator, resident and business consultant. He'll serve as the bridge between residents, their requests for help and the relevant resources.

Both White and Wolf praised Weinberg as an excellent choice for the role.

"I am honored to serve Saddle Brook in this way," Weinberg said. "I come from a family dedicated to public service, and this is a unique opportunity to use my talents to coordinate meeting needs and opportunities to serve."

"With everything needed in place, now we are informing residents that the Partnership is here to help," White said.

He envisions residents who need help with minor outdoor projects, transportation, mentoring, food -- or even "just a visit from time to time," Wolf added, in the video -- to use the communication channels to receive assistance from fellow residents and township organizations.

To request assistance, ask questions or volunteer, visit the Partnership's website, withing the township website, or call the dedicated hotline number, at 201-587-2912.

"This is community at its best. When we strengthen and serve those in need, all of us are lifted and more connected," Wolf added.

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