Family Connections - NJ4S Essex

09/01/2026

September is National Su***de Prevention Month

Every young person deserves to feel heard, supported, and reminded that they are not alone. This September, NJ4S-Essex is joining communities across the country in raising awareness, encouraging open conversations, and sharing resources that can make a difference.

Sometimes, a simple “How are you really doing?” can open the door to a conversation that matters. Check in with a friend. Listen without judgment. Speak up when something doesn’t feel right. And remember—asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Together, we can create school communities where students feel safe reaching out, connected to others, and supported through life’s challenges. 💛

You are not alone. Your story matters. Your life matters.

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07/31/2026

New Jersey families: you could get $1,000 per child age 5 and under with the New Jersey Child Tax Credit. 💰 This money can help pay for food, housing, child care, and other household expenses. It won't impact most benefits you already get, like SNAP, WIC, Medicaid or TANF.

You may qualify even if you:

➡️Have low or no income
➡️Do not usually file taxes
➡️Have a Social Security Number or ITIN

SimpleFile is free, takes 15 minutes or less, and does not require income documents. Apply by October 15.

Get started: simplefile.nj.gov/nj4sfam or visit our link in bio.

07/27/2026

🌟 As summer winds down and the school year approaches, many kids may feel those back-to-school jitters. 😟✨ We’re here to help! Check out our resource page for practical tips on how to support your child's mental health and ease their anxiety before they step into the classroom. Together, let’s empower our children to face new adventures with confidence! 💪💖

07/01/2026

Today NJ4S-Essex staff came together to celebrate the continuation of our program funding. We want to thank the Governor Mikie Sherrill and the NJ Legislature for recognizing the importance of preserving student support services for NJ’s students. We also want to thank our dedicated staff for their perseverance, resilience, and belief in our mission. We are energized, grateful and ready to continue making a difference.

06/26/2026

Knowledge is Pride. 🌈

Understanding gender is one way we create more inclusive, supportive, and affirming communities for everyone. At NJ4S Essex, we believe that learning leads to empathy, and empathy helps young people feel seen, valued, and respected.

This Pride Month and beyond, we're committed to sharing resources that foster understanding and celebrate the diversity of our communities. 💙

06/25/2026

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table at Night at the Museum at the Newark Museum! We enjoyed connecting with community members, sharing resources, and spreading awareness about the programs and support available through Family Connections.

A special thank you to our staff who represented us and helped make the evening a success. We appreciate every conversation and opportunity to strengthen connections within our community. 💙

06/15/2026

🌈 Knowledge is Pride.

This Pride Month, we're highlighting ways we can all help create safe, supportive, and inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth.

Today's topic: How Teachers Can Support LGBTQIA+ Students. 📚💜

From using inclusive language and respecting students' identities to fostering a classroom culture of belonging, educators play a vital role in helping every student feel seen, valued, and supported.

By learning, listening, and leading with compassion, we can continue building a more inclusive community through education.

06/10/2026

"Even on days when I didn't know what to say, I always left feeling heard, understood, and cared for."

Stories like this remind us why the work we do matters. Through NJ4S, young people and families have access to support, guidance, and caring professionals who help them navigate life's challenges and build resilience.

We're grateful to share this heartfelt testimonial and the impact that connection and support can make. ❤️

Read more testimonials and success stories on our website: https://www.familyconnectionsnj.org/nj4s/testimonials/

05/29/2026

🎥 In this clip from our recent webinar, Teenagers Standing Strong Against Peer Pressure: How to Support Teens in Making Sound Choices, our presenters shared valuable insights on helping teens navigate peer pressure and build confidence in their decision-making.

The discussion explored practical ways parents, caregivers, and trusted adults can support young people in making healthy choices while creating safe spaces for open, judgment-free conversations.

Missed the live webinar? The full recording is available on our YouTube channel. Watch it through the link in our bio or visit: https://youtu.be/hAVLfzlrgnQ

05/04/2026

Navigating the teenage years isn’t easy—especially when peer pressure is involved.

Join us on May 20th at 5:30 PM for an important conversation on how to support teens in making confident, healthy choices. 💬

Learn practical ways to:
✔ Build your teen’s confidence
✔ Encourage open, judgment-free communication
✔ Help them stand strong in challenging situations
🎁 Bonus: Attend for a chance to win an Amazon gift card!

🔗 Register now: https://bit.ly/4cvqXY5

Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: Teenagers Standing Strong Against Peer Pressure: How to Support Teens in Making Sound Choices (PTEA) . After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.