BRIDGEWATER TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — The Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office Operation Helping Hand Program will host a 5K run and walk in September to raise awareness about substance use disorders, celebrate recovery and connect residents with treatment and recovery resources.
The Operation Helping Hand: Running for Recovery 5K Run and Walk will be held Saturday, Sept. 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Duke Island Park in Bridgewater.
The event is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. Registration costs $15 per participant and includes a finisher medal, commemorative T-shirt and post-race ice cream.
Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female finishers, along with the top three male and female finishers in each age division. Children ages 7 and younger can participate in a Kids Dash at no cost.
“Recovery is a journey that no one should have to face alone,” said Somerset County Prosecutor John P. McDonald. “This event is an opportunity for our community to come together, show support for individuals and families affected by addiction, and highlight the many resources available throughout Somerset County. Every step taken is a step toward hope, healing, and recovery.”
In addition to the race, the event will feature family activities, public safety demonstrations and community resource tables. The Somerset County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit is scheduled to conduct a demonstration at 10:30 a.m., and a Somerset County SWAT vehicle will be on display.
Treatment providers, recovery support organizations, prevention agencies and other community partners will also be available to provide information and connect attendees with resources.
Operation Helping Hand is a countywide initiative involving law enforcement agencies, peer recovery specialists, treatment providers and community organizations. The program works to connect people affected by substance use disorders with treatment and recovery services while reducing the stigma associated with addiction.
Somerset County Operation Helping Hand partners with CiC for Prevention and Recovery, which provides prevention, recovery support, education and connections to resources from offices in Bernardsville and Franklin Township.
The event is supported through Operation Helping Hand grant funding provided by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General’s Office of Alternative and Community Responses.
Registration and additional information are available at runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Bridgewater/SCOHH or by emailing OHH@somersetcountynj.gov.
Those seeking addiction services can contact Operation Helping Hand at 908-393-8888 or OHH@SomersetCountyNJ.gov.
