We are requesting your support in advocating against cuts in funding to New Jersey’s Children's System of Care. Such cuts would be a detriment to thousands of families in New Jersey who need assistance, especially during this unprecedented time. Through the NJ Children's System of Care, families receive access to clinical services and supports for their children and peer support and education for their caregivers.

The services provided to those with serious mental illnesses and substance use disorders have always been a lifeline, but never more so than during the current pandemic.
Faced with an unprecedented pandemic, New Jersey’s FY2021 budget must invest in New Jersey’s most vulnerable children and families by ensuring critical behavioral health services are maintained to meet the needs of an ever growing population.

The effect on families whose children have challenges cannot be underestimated. The stress on such families is immense and complex. It has been reported that families have experienced increased domestic violence, suicidal ideation, educational decline and psychological trauma. We implore your support in preserving funding for the Children's System of Care, especially entities which rely on state contracts to provide support to families across the state.

We, the undersigned, urge Governor Murphy, the New Jersey Legislature, the Department of Human Services  and the Department of Children and Families to continue to fully fund the Children's System of Care in the FY2021 budget so that there is no disruption in services to families of children who have emotional, behavioral, mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental challenges.