March 2026

Shining a light on lives restored, hope renewed, and futures transformed.

IN THIS EDITION...

• ARRIVE Together Provides Critical Support During Fire
• Gregory's Story
• Celebrating Our Team
• Buddy Garfinkle Addresses Behavioral Health Implications
• Now Accepting Referrals for Individuals with IDD and Autism
• Developmental Disabilities Month
• Social Work Month
• Trustee Reflections
• 2026 Run for Woods System of Care
• Awareness and Key Dates
• Build Your Career
• Mindful Moments

BRIDGEWAY'S "ARRIVE TOGETHER" TEAM PROVIDES CRITICAL MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOLLOWING DEVASTATING BRANCHBURG FIRE

Photo Credit: News 12 NJ

In the early morning hours of March 18, a devastating fire tore through an affordable housing complex in Branchburg, New Jersey, displacing approximately 70 residents and leaving families in crisis. 

Within minutes of receiving a call from the Branchburg Police Department, while emergency crews were still actively battling the fire, Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services’ ARRIVE Together team in Somerset County mobilized to provide immediate, on-site mental health support. 



Arriving on scene during an active emergency, Bridgeway clinicians worked side by side with law enforcement to support residents experiencing shock, fear, and uncertainty. In an environment marked by chaos and emotional distress, the team provided de-escalation, emotional stabilization, and compassionate, trauma-informed care to individuals and families impacted by the fire. 

A PLACE TO CALL HOME

CHANGES EVERYTHING

A place to call home can change everything, and Gregory Jackson’s story shows just how powerful stability can be.

Gregory came to Bridgeway’s Supportive Housing program after experiencing homelessness, securing housing just days before his voucher expired. At first, he was hesitant to make his apartment feel like home, but today he’s decorating, settling in, and taking pride in creating a space that truly reflects who he is.

Known for his sense of humor and big heart, Gregory has continued to show steady commitment to his recovery, health, and independence.

He has maintained his sobriety since 1998 and continues to prioritize his wellness through healthier eating, learning to cook new meals, staying active, and participating in Bridgeway’s Thrive Nutrition program. His dedication has led to meaningful improvements in his health, including weight loss and stronger day-to-day habits.

Gregory’s journey reflects what’s possible when people are supported, encouraged, and given the opportunity to grow—bridging ways to wellness not just through housing, but across every part of life.

Learn more about Bridgeway’s Supportive Housing programs and how they help individuals build stability and independence.

CELEBRATING OUR TEAM:

STAFF APPRECIATION & MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

On Friday, March 20, 2026, the Bridgeway family gathered at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, NJ, for a special evening dedicated to the people who make our mission possible every single day. 

The Bridgeway Staff Appreciation event was more than a celebration. It was a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect, and honor the dedication, compassion, and commitment of our team. From frontline clinicians and residential staff to administrative professionals and program leaders, every role contributes to Bridgeway’s impact across northern New Jersey. 

BUDDY GARFINKLE ADDRESSES BEHAVIORAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS

Buddy Garfinkle, Executive Vice President and Chief Program Officer at Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services, was recently featured in a Patch article covering Governor Mikie Sherrill’s proposed budget and the future of Medicaid in New Jersey.

In the article, Buddy shared how critical Medicaid is in helping people access behavioral health care across the state.

“For many individuals living with mental health conditions, Medicaid is their main pathway to treatment,” Buddy said. “Maintaining these services helps ensure people can continue getting care when they need it. When people lose coverage, they often delay care until they’re in crisis.”

Programs like NJ FamilyCare help connect people to care earlier and support stronger, healthier communities across New Jersey.

NOW ACCEPTING REFERRALS: BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM AND IDD

Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services accepts referrals for individuals with Autism (ages 6+) and individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) who are experiencing mental health or co-occurring challenges. 

Families often struggle to find providers who understand the intersection of developmental disabilities and behavioral health needs.

Bridgeway offers coordinated, person-centered care that includes outpatient therapy, medication management, Mental Health Urgent Care (18+), substance use services in Hudson County, and Partial Care in Sussex County. Family therapy and wraparound support are also available. 

DEVELOPMENT DISABILITIES MONTH Supporting Abilities.

Honoring Individuality. Building Futures.

This month, we proudly stand with individuals, families, and communities impacted by intellectual and developmental disabilities. At Bridgeway Behavioral Health, we believe everyone deserves access to compassionate, high-quality care. That’s why we’ve expanded our services to better support individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and Autism, helping people build skills, confidence, and meaningful connections. We’re honored to grow alongside our community and continue creating pathways to support, inclusion, and opportunity.

Our approach centers on:

• Respect for every individual
• Person-centered, strengths-based care
• Support that empowers individuals and families

This is an important step forward in expanding access to services that promote independence, dignity, and lifelong growth. Together, we’re building a more inclusive community - one person at a time.

SOCIAL WORK MONTH

What Social Workers Do 

Social workers are at the heart of mental and behavioral health care. At Bridgeway Behavioral Health, our social workers support individuals and families through assessment, counseling, care coordination, advocacy, and community connection. They meet people where they are - with compassion, expertise, and respect - helping build pathways to healing and stability. This Social Work Month, we recognize the essential role social workers play in strengthening lives and communities.

TRUSTEE REFLECTIONS

Healing a Community From the Inside Out: How Bridgeway’s Social Workers Are Advancing Minority Health Care in Union County
By Mark T. Williams, BSN, RN-BC

In Union County, New Jersey, the path to mental health and wellness is not the same for everyone. For residents in the county’s predominantly minority communities, particularly Black, Hispanic, and working-class families, accessing care has historically meant navigating weeks-long waitlists, a lack of culturally appropriate services, and a system that often exacerbates urgent care needs into full-on emergency room crises or worse, law enforcement intervention. The barriers have been insurmountable for many families.

At the forefront of confronting this challenge are the social workers of Bridgeway Behavioral Health Care, who are redefining what it means to advance minority health care through on-the-ground action, advocacy, and systemic reform. 

2026 RUN FOR WOODS

SYSTEM OF CARE (WSOC)

Team Bridgeway Hits the Ground Running!

Team Bridgeway is officially registered for the Run for Woods System of Care and we’re ready to make every step count.

Join us as we run, walk, and rally together to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and behavioral health needs. Led by Team Captain Jodi Traina, we’re building momentum and would love for you to be part of it.


There's an awesome morning planned, including a 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run. The festivities kick off with an opening ceremony at 8:45 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9:00 a.m. and the 1-Mile Fun Run at 9:10 a.m. 

Whether you lace up your sneakers, cheer from the sidelines, or make a donation, your support helps turn miles into meaningful impact.

Sunday, June 7, 2026

Woods Services, 40 Martin Gross Drive, Langhorne, PA

Join Team Bridgeway, sponsor, or donate

Let’s show up strong, have fun, and make a difference—together. 

AWARENESS & KEY DATES

March | Social Work Month

Celebrating the vital role of social workers and this year’s theme, “Social Workers: Uplift. Defend. Transform.”


March | Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Promoting inclusion, accessibility, and opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities.

April | Autism Acceptance Month 
Dedicated to fostering understanding, inclusivity, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum.

April 2 | World Autism Awareness Day

Highlights the need for better access to care, education, and employment opportunities for the growing autistic community.

April 9 | Union County Fresh Start

9:00 am to 12:00 pm at Elizabeth Public Library, 11 S. Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ. Bridgeway will be onsite connecting individuals to services. Free showers, laundry, & restrooms available - first-come, first-served.

April 13 | Autism NJ Webinar: Understanding the Causes of Autism

12:30 pm. A free webinar featuring Rutgers scientists discussing genetics, environmental factors, and brain development in clear, accessible terms; aligned with Bridgeway’s growing focus on Autism and IDD services. Registration required.

April 13 | In Our Own Voice (In Person)

6:30 pm to 7:30 pm at North Bergen Recreation Center and Library, 1231 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, North Bergen. Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hudson County. Registration required.


April 14–15 | NJAMHAA Spring Conference – Evolving Behavioral Health

Bridgeway will be there! Join behavioral health leaders and stakeholders as NJAMHAA celebrates 75+ years of advancing care and collaboration.

April 14 | 8:30 am – 6:30 pm and April 15 | 8:30 am – 4:00 pm, APA Hotel Woodbridge, Iselin, NJ.

April 16 | Self Care (Virtual)

6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hudson County. A virtual session focused on self-care and wellness. Registration required.

May 14 | Mental Health 101 (Virtual – English)

6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hudson County. An introductory presentation covering the fundamentals of mental health in an informative and accessible way. Registration required.


May 15 | Meadowview Psychiatric Hospital Annual Mental Health Conference

10:30 am to 2:00 pm at Meadowview Psychiatric Hospital, 635 County Ave., Secaucus, NJ. Bridgeway will participate at this year’s More Good Days Together conference, bringing providers together to connect, collaborate, and promote hope and healing.

May 16 | 3rd Annual Women’s Health Fair

Bridgeway staff look forward to seeing you at the Healthy Moms,

Healthy Families Women’s & Maternal Health Screening & Resource Fair

Casano Community Center, Roselle Park, NJ 11 am - 4 pm.

June 7 | Run for Woods System of Care

Join or donate to support Team Bridgeway in the 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run. Opening ceremony at 8:45 AM, followed by the 5K at 9:00 AM and the 1-Mile Fun Run at 9:10 AM.

First Thursday of Every Month | Family & Connections Support Group (In Person)

6:30 pm at North Bergen Library, 13th Street and Kennedy Boulevard, North Bergen, NJ. Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hudson County. Peer-led support for families and individuals seeking connection and shared understanding. Registration required.

Third Tuesday of Every Month | Family & Connections Support Group (Virtual)

7:00 pm. Presented by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hudson County. Virtual peer support for families and individuals. Registration required.

Spring/Summer 2026 | Join us as we celebrate the opening of our

Center for Integrated Outpatient Services. Details to come!

Have an event to share?

BUILD YOUR CAREEER.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE AT BRIDGEWAY

At Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services, we make a difference; supporting the goals of those we serve and of our employees. Our team enjoys meaningful work in a collaborative, compassionate environment. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, exceptional training, and a culture that values growth, teamwork, and career development.

If you’re ready to put your passion to work and help others thrive, explore our open positions and apply today! 

View Career Opportunities

MINDFUL MOMENTS

“Different ways of thinking

are part of what make us human.”

Neurodiversity reminds us that every mind works in its own unique way and that difference brings strength to our communities

NEED HELP?

WE'RE HERE FOR YOU

To Access Bridgeway's Service Options

Call: 877-692-5664

Email: central.access@bridgewaybhs.org

Bridgeway’s Central Access Team is your trusted connection point to compassionate, personalized care. Whether you're seeking mental health or substance use support—for yourself or a loved one—our knowledgeable specialists are here to listen, guide, and connect you with the right services. 

With just one call, you can access a wide range of life-changing programs, including: 

• Outpatient Mental Health & Substance Use Services 
• Community-based mental health care (PACT) 
• Homeless Outreach 
• Independent Living with Support 
• Partial Care Programs 
• Career Services & Educational Support 
• And more

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