Addressing food insecurity. Helping residents stay physically and mentally active. Supporting COVID-19 testing clinics. The 2020 Mayors Wellness Campaign (MWC) “New Jersey Healthy Town” winners are being recognized for their innovative responses to local needs created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Montclair is one of eight communities participating in the MWC to be named a 2020 Healthy Town. This is the third year in a row that Montclair received the designation.
The township's health and human services department not only responded to the needs that emerged from the pandemic, but also continued health and wellness programming and education throughout the year. Programs included
- Increased access to remote programming for older adults.
- Food distribution for residents over 60 so that they were able to stay safely in their homes.
- Montclair's Community Farms Coalition, which helped to keep residents active and address food insecurity
“Maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle is always important, but now especially it’s critical that our community members have access to healthful foods, nutrition information, and a variety of options for sports and other exercise activities,” said Mayor Sean Spiller. “There have been challenges along the way, but the Township, with the help of our community partners, has been able to offer a variety of activities for people of all ages, both in the physical and virtual spheres. The well- being of our residents is of critical importance and we are proud to have met the challenges to be once again honored with the Quality Institute’s recognition of Montclair as a Mayors Wellness Campaign Healthy Town,” said Mayor Spiller.
The MWC is a program of the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute, in partnership with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities. The other municipalities to receive the MWC New Jersey Healthy Town designation
City of Asbury Park
Evesham Township
Paterson
Plainfield
Scotch Plains
Wildwood Crest
Woodbridge
About the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute: The New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s (Quality Institute) mission is to improve the safety, quality, and affordability of health care for everyone. Our membership comes from all stakeholders in health care. Together with our 100 plus members, we are working towards a world where all people receive safe, equitable, and affordable health care and live their healthiest lives.
About the Mayors Wellness Campaign: The Mayors Wellness Campaign is a program of the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute in partnership with the New Jersey State League of Municipalities. The program empowers mayors across New Jersey with evidence-based tools, strategies, and support to champion health and wellness in their communities.