FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Warren County) — Warren County officials hosted their annual Health and Wellness Field Day on May 1 at Warren County Technical School, bringing together residents, students, law enforcement and service providers to promote mental and physical well-being.
The event, held each year since 2020, featured interactive activities and community engagement opportunities designed to raise awareness about health resources and reduce stigma surrounding mental health.
Participants took part in activities ranging from sports with local police officers to informational displays hosted by the Warren County Department of Human Services and other organizations.
“Special thanks must go out to Laura Richter from the Warren County Department of Human Services, our Warren County Prosecutor Jessica Cardone, Tim Barlow, and everyone involved in pulling together the Health and Wellness Field Day,” Commissioner Director Lori Ciesla said, adding, “Events like this help us end the stigma around mental health and get people talking and informed. This event also opens communication between law enforcement and students, which is crucial in this day and age. Thank you to my fellow commissioners for supporting this event, and to all who volunteered their time, talent or resources to make it successful!”
“The Health & Wellness Field Day is about more than just a single evening. It is about creating real connections across our community,” said Tim Barlow, senior community relations specialist for the Warren County Prosecutor’s Office. Barlow continued, “When you see students, families, law enforcement, and service providers coming together in a positive setting, it builds trust and opens the door for conversations that might not happen otherwise. That is where real impact begins.”
“We are grateful for our volunteers, providers and participants for making this year’s event such a memorable experience for all,” said Laura Richter, associate director of the Warren County Department of Human Services.
Officials said the event was funded in part through the state Attorney General’s ARRIVE Together grant, which supports programs pairing law enforcement officers with mental health professionals when responding to individuals in crisis.
In Warren County, the ARRIVE Together initiative includes on-scene response, follow-up support and telehealth services to expand access to care, officials said.
