MHCNJ Monthly Connections – December 2025 | Issue #4

A Message from the Founder

As we close out 2025, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible progress Mental Healthcare Connections of New Jersey has made in our inaugural year. Our team has grown, our impact has expanded across multiple counties, and we continue to build strong partnerships through the Children’s System of Care. This month, we celebrate our successes, share valuable community resources, and look ahead to a promising new year.

Warm regards,

Sean S. Lee, LCSW

Owner & Clinical Director

Holiday & Community Resources – December 2025

Below is a curated list of free and low‑cost holiday events, supports, and programs provided by Tri‑County CMO and Ocean Partnership for Children. These resources may benefit the youth and families we proudly serve across New Jersey. MHCNJ extends our thanks to Nicole Russo, Tri-County CMO’s Community Engagement Coordinator, and Kathryn Colhoun, Director of Community Resources & Advocacy, for highlighting these resources for the children and families of their respective counties.

Essential Needs & Family Supports

• Limited Reopening – Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)  Priority support for families experiencing homelessness, special‑needs children, and low‑income households.  Applications open January 2026.  Info: 908‑782‑8183 | www.ChildCareNJ.gov

• Protecting Care: What NJ Advocates Need to Know About H.R. 1  Webinar: December 11, 2025 | 2:00–3:15 PM

Warren County Events

• 12/5 – Hometown Holiday in Washington Borough (5–8 PM)• Green Brook Holiday Tree Lighting – December 6• Somerville Holiday Jubilee – December 5• Basking Ridge Winter Market & Tree Lighting – December 6• North Plainfield Tree Lighting & Santa – December 7

Resources for All Families

• FSO‑HSW December Events Calendar• Roll with Pride – Youth D&D Group (Highland Park) – 2nd & 4th Saturdays at 4 PM• Mom2Mom Caregiver Support Line – 877‑914‑6662• Autism NJ – Sibling Connection Session (12/9, 7–8 PM)• SPAN Webinar: Navigating Digital Tools for Family Communication (12/11, 11 AM–12 PM)

Hunterdon County Events

• Harvest Family Success Center – December Events• Delaware Township 55th Annual Tractor Parade – December 6• Understanding Winter Blues – Spruce Run Lutheran Church• Pancakes With Maple the Snowman – December 7• Winter Village at Red Mill Museum (Clinton) – December 5–7• Winter Gathering for Families (Flemington) – December 9

Somerset County Events

• RVCC Planetarium Holiday Shows – starting December 6• NJ4S Winter Brunch – Somerville• Bound Brook Holiday Tree Lighting – December 7

Featured Holiday Toy & Meal Resources (Ocean County)

• Salvation Army – “Adopt a Family” & “Angel Tree” programs: Provides toys and gifts for children and seniors. Contact: 732‑270‑8393.

• Ocean Inc.: Provides holiday food baskets, gift cards, and toys to families in northern Ocean County. Contact: 732‑244‑9041.

• Catholic Charities: Offers gifts and gift cards to struggling families, immigrants, and seniors. Contact: 732‑363‑5322.

• CASA of Ocean County: Collects new, unwrapped toys for children in foster care; donations accepted or via Amazon Wishlist. Contact: 732‑797‑0590.

• St. Francis Community Center: Provides shoes, bedding, and gifts for families. Contact: 609‑494‑8861.

• Ocean County Sheriff’s Department: Organizes holiday toy drives for qualifying children. Contact: 732‑929‑2044.

Wellness & Health Corner – December 2025

Caring for others begins with caring for yourself. As we enter the winter season, here are some essential wellness tips:• Protect your energy and set healthy boundaries.• Maintain steady sleep, nutrition, and hydration routines.• Take mindful breaks between sessions.• Prioritize safety during winter travel.• Reach out for support when needed.

Thought for the Month: “Wellness isn’t a destination — it’s a rhythm. Allow your rhythm to rest, reset, and breathe.”

Employee Highlight – December 2025

Employee Acknowledgement: Jessica Matteo, BA & Michael Ecklund, LACJessica and Michael are being recognized for their exceptional dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the mission of MHCNJ.

Jessica Matteo, BA

Jessica’s dedication and support of the children she works with are deeply appreciated. Whenever a family is in need or a youth requires additional support, Jessica consistently makes herself available, offering compassion, presence, and a listening ear. Thank you, Jessica, for all that you do!

Michael Ecklund, LAC

Michael’s support and dedication have made a significant impact. His enthusiasm, professionalism, and positive energy reflect the values of Mental Healthcare Connections of New Jersey. We appreciate his service and contributions — both prior to MHCNJ and in the years ahead.

Mental Healthcare Connections of New Jersey, LLC, would like to wish everyone happy holidays and a happy new year!