In this Week's Edition
News
SHA Celebrates Senator Sweeney
True Champion for the Disability Community
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New Jersey Legislature Approves $700M
for Healthcare, Housing, Green Energy,
and Economic Recovery
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HUD USER PD&R Edge
Reforming Local Land Use Regulations
To Increase Housing Production
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NJ DHS Seeks Feedback on Social Isolation
Survey Among Four Key Groups
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Newark Issues New RFP for
Additional Housing in North & West Wards
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First Seven Projects Announced Under
"Affordable Newark" $20M Commitment
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DMHAS RFP - Development of
Cultural Competency Training and
Practice for Opioid Treatment Providers
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Web-based Training Opportunities
from The Boggs Center
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Thank you for an Excellent
23rd Annual Conference!
Share Feedback and Access Sessions
Resources & Virtual Forums
Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic
Expansion Grant Deep Dive Webinar
December 7, 2021
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Free Housing Assistance & Eviction Protection
Webinar with New Jersey Citizen Action
December 7, 2021
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DCM Associates Fall 2021
Webinar Series for Non-Profits
November - December 2021
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LGBTQ+/HIV+ Older Adult Training LTC
for New Jersey Providers and Designates
December 1-8, 2021
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Free Hybrid Conference
Building a Culture of Health in New Jersey:
Healing Communities & Connecting Voices
December 9-10, 2021
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Trainings from the NJ Division on Civil Rights
December 2021 - February 2022
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There Has To Be A Better Way To Create Shared Housing Opportunities
December 15, 2021
12:00 - 1:00 PM EST
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Mark Your Calendar
Meeting Dates now posted on SHA Website for 2022 Member and Developer Meetings.
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Thank you to all
who attended this year's conference.
All attendees can
access on-demand
three months
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The initiative involves two aspects:
- A program to provide robust training and consultation services with the goal of full implementation of gambling counseling practices within agencies across New Jersey that offer substance use disorder services. The services will include needs assessment, training, ongoing consultation, workshops, supervised practice, learning communities, coaching and feedback. The program will be provided by Rutgers University.
- A gambling disorder clinician program to provide treatment and case management for individuals with a dual disorder of gambling and substance use. The program will also be open to individuals with a co-occurring mental health disorder. These clinical services will be provided by the treatment agencies identified below.
The services are expected to start in January.
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SHA Welcomes New Members In 2021 |
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SHA Celebrates Senator Sweeney
True Champion for the Disability Community
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State Senator Sweeney (right) awards 2017 Direct Support Staff Award at SHA conference. |
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With deep appreciation SHA is grateful to Senator Steve Sweeney for his decades of leadership to advance the quality of life and living opportunities for people with disabilities in New Jersey. His keen understanding coupled with his fierce determination opened many doors.
“No one is a better advocate. Senator Sweeney knows all the moving parts, the funding that is needed for housing and services, the importance of direct care workers and most importantly the sure knowledge that with the right combination of things what seemed impossible becomes achievable. He will certainly be missed in his current role but I know we can continue to count on him to continue to work with us on meaningful and systemic change” said Diane Riley, SHA-NJ Executive Director.
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New Jersey Legislature Approves $700M for Healthcare, Housing, Green Energy, and Economic Recovery |
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At the time of publication, the New Jersey Legislature has approved Gov. Phil Murphy's plan to allocate nearly $700 million in state taxpayer money and federal coronavirus relief funds on various projects involving health institutions, wind energy, housing, economic recovery from the pandemic, and more. Murphy said the spending is the result of an agreement with his fellow Democrats who lead the state Legislature.
“This proposal will allow us to responsibly fund capital construction and continue using federal dollars for one-time, transformative investments in our residents, communities, and infrastructure,” the governor said in a statement Friday. “I am grateful to my colleagues in the Legislature for their commitment to help us build a stronger, fairer, and more resilient post-pandemic New Jersey for all.”
Housing advocates are closely watching investments including:
- $40 million to create a state program to “fill COVID-induced” supply chain gaps in affordable housing and community development projects.
- $37.5 million to help tenants apply to an eviction prevention program and for temporary staff to help the program.
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HUD USER PD&R Edge
Reforming Local Land Use Regulations
To Increase Housing Production
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A major challenge to achieving widespread housing affordability in the United States is the persistent underproduction of new housing. Restrictive land use regulations — especially in high-productivity metropolitan areas — limit housing supply and drive up the cost of housing to levels unaffordable to many. To attract further attention to the problem and to possible solutions, the White House hosted a virtual event, “Reducing Land Use and Zoning Restrictions,” on October 29, 2021. The event featured two panels, both composed primarily of local and state officials, who shared their experiences trying to move the needle on zoning reform.
The scale of the problem is significant, as Brian Deese, director of the National Economic Council; Cecilia Rouse, chair of the Council of Economic Advisors; and Ed Glaeser, professor of economics at Harvard University, laid out. Citing data from Freddie Mac, Deese pointed out that the nation currently falls 3.8 million total housing units short of demand; the construction of starter homes has fallen from 418,000 units annually 50 years ago to only 65,000 units today. Although the federal government plays an important role in reducing this gap, state and local authorities, said Deese, are central to achieving greater housing production.
Reforming Local Zoning Locally
Participants in the event’s first panel offered local perspectives on zoning issues. Austin mayor Steve Adler reported that his city’s past decade of intense growth has driven up housing prices, creating an urgent need for zoning reform. However, competing local concerns between housing affordability and preserving existing neighborhoods have made comprehensive zoning reform difficult. One strategy that Adler said has been successful in tamping resistance to denser new construction has been to allow more zoning changes for developments that include commitments to affordable housing.
The Role of State Governments in Reforming Local Policy
The event’s second panel featured state-level elected officials, who agreed on the importance of having state governments partner with localities to pursue zoning reform. Echoing Deese, Tina Kopek, speaker of the Oregon House of Representatives, said her state’s housing supply currently falls 30,000 units short of demand. Meeting this challenge while respecting the environmental policies that protect the state’s forests and farmland meant pursuing more infill development. To accomplish this, Oregon passed a law requiring jurisdictions within the Portland metropolitan area with 10,000 residents or more to allow duplexes on any lot. Cities with populations of 25,000 or more are required to allow even more multifamily housing types. By imposing these requirements at the state level, Oregon relieved localities of the need to engage in potentially contentious efforts to achieve reform themselves. (PD&R Edge, November 23, 2021)
If a developer were to obtain a tax abatement for any project in the City, the proposed ordinance will require that, at minimum, 15% of the total units constructed be affordable, irrespective of location. In addition, the affordable units must be comprised of a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units, with at least 50% of the affordable units reserved for low-income households earning 50% or less of median income and 13% of the affordable units reserved for very-low-income households earning 30% or less of median income.
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NJ DHS Seeks Feedback on Social Isolation
Survey Among Four Key Groups
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The New Jersey Legislature passed a law that requires NJ Human Services to study social isolation among four groups: seniors age 65 and older, individuals with disabilities, individuals with mental illness, and those who have served or currently serve in the military. All individuals in these groups are welcome to complete the survey, regardless of whether they consider themselves socially isolated.
If you identify with one or more of these groups, please consider completing the survey. If you care for or communicate with people in one or more these groups, please provide individuals with the Survey Monkey link and consider assisting them with completion of the survey.
and will be open until February 28, 2022.
For this study, social isolation is defined as a lack of contact or meaningful connection with others. Social isolation may have varying effects on someone’s quality of life and well-being. By studying how widespread social isolation is and determining related risk factors, it is hoped that services can be improved or introduced to improve people’s lives.
The survey includes demographic questions and asks about recent social experience, engagement in community and work activities, and access to support services. All responses provided are anonymous and will be reported in an aggregated manner. Any questions regarding this survey can be sent to Oresp@dhs.nj.gov.
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Newark Issues New RFP for
Additional Housing in North & West Wards
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First Seven Projects Announced Under
"Affordable Newark" $20M Commitment
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The New RFP prioritizes the North and West Wards. While the recent Rutgers CLiME “Homes Beyond Reach” local assessment cites those two wards as most in need of affordable housing, unfortunately, those wards failed to receive responsive proposals under the initial Affordable Newark RFP. In response to the CLiME report, a subsequent set of Newark Equitable Growth Advisory Commission recommendations on affordable housing, and the dearth of responsive proposals for the North and West Wards, in this RFP, Mayor Baraka has focused on projects specifically in the two Wards.
Under the new RFP, there is approximately $6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Federal, and Local trust fund dollars available. Developers can apply for these funds based on the following criteria:
- City funding is only provided to produce units @ 30% or less AMI.
- Units above 30% AMI must be funded with other sources other than city funds (ARP, federal or local trust funds).
- City funds can finance up to 50% of the per unit cost.
- City funds can finance 50% Total Development Cost if project has 100% of units at 30% or less AMI.
- If project is 100% at 30% or less AMI, the project cannot exceed 30 units and must include on site supportive services.
- The project can be mixed income.
- Preference to Minority Business Enterprises/Women Business Enterprises/local developers and/or joint ventures with minority co-developers.
- Preference for projects that produce units with at least 2 bedrooms.
- Affordability period must be a minimum of 20 years.
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Newark, NJ- Mayor Ras J. Baraka announced the first seven projects to be built under Affordable Newark, a new housing initiative targeted to average Newark families earning $32,000 and less. Preference was given to minority and women developers, projects with minority co-developers and small-scale developments of 30 units or less. In May 2021, Mayor Baraka announced the investment of $20 million in the program.
Among the developments are renovation of an existing vacant 75-unit vacant apartment complex containing two midrise buildings on Stratford Place in the South Ward; permanent housing on 3rd Avenue in the East Ward for veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless; and construction of affordable housing for those aged 55 and older on Thomas Street in the East Ward. The list of Affordable Newark RFP awardees is attached here.
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DMHAS RFP - Development of Cultural Competency Training and Practice for Opioid Treatment Providers |
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The attached Request for Proposals has been posted on the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services’ website.
This Request for Proposals (RFP) is issued by the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) for the development of Cultural Competency Training and Practice for Opioid Treatment Providers (OTP). This RFP is funded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) State Opioid Response Grant (SOR). Total annualized funding for this RFP is $750,000, subject to federal appropriations. The contract award is through September 29, 2022 depending on federal appropriations. Through this initiative, the successful bidder will provide training, coaching, and consultation services to counselors and leadership employed at Department of Health (DOH)-licensed Opioid Treatment Providers (OTPs). The goal of this initiative is to narrow the treatment gap experienced by Black/African Americans (AA) who are diagnosed with opioid and stimulant use disorders and who are statistically less likely to receive or access services. A second goal of this initiative is to increase the prescribing of Medication for Opioid Use Disorders (MOUD) among the Black/African American community. DMHAS anticipates making one (1) award.
This project will provide OTP counselors and agency leadership with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to ensure that services are provided in a manner which exemplifies the National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) in Health and Health Care and SAMHSA’s TIP 59: Improving Cultural Competence. While it can be challenging to take a holistic view of an individual and see more than the substance use disorder (SUD), this may be even more so for Black/African Americans who are subjected to the implicit biases of the health care system. Failing to bridge a racial cultural divide often contributes to premature termination of treatment among people of color. When the cultural context is ignored or misunderstood, respect for the client is lacking, little hope is provided, and it becomes challenging for Black/African Americans with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) to engage in treatment.
No Mandatory Bidders Conference.
Proposal Due Date – no later than 4:00 p.m. on December 14, 2021
Notify Date – January 14, 2022
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Web-based Training Opportunities from The Boggs Center |
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The Boggs Center has made accommodations to offer a selection of existing trainings on Zoom and has developed additional web-based opportunities to meet the training and information needs of the disability community.
Please note:
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Space is limited for each of the sessions. Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of DDD and DCF, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DCF Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members. Registration closes 2 business days prior to each training date. To register, visit: https://boggscenterregistration.rwjms.rutgers.edu/index.php/event/training.
- Certificates of Attendance will be emailed to all participants who meet the eligibility requirements a few business days following the training. To demonstrate completion and receive a certificate, you must be logged into the Zoom training from start to finish, participate in all activities and discussions, and complete the survey at the end of the course.
Available Training Includes:
Introduction to Positive Behavior Supports
and Applied Positive Behavior Supports
- Introduction to Positive Behavior Supports
- Applied Positive Behavior Supports: Functional Behavior Assessment and Development of Behavior Support Plans
- Understanding And Addressing The Needs Of People With Dual Diagnosis
Behavior and Mental Health Supplemental
- An Introduction To Psychopharmacology In Autism: Looking At Medication And Behavioral Intervention To Address Challenging Behavior
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Applied Behavior Analysis and Intellectual/Developmental Disability: Special Considerations.
- Promoting Relaxation For Individuals With Intellectual And/or Developmental Disabilities
- Supporting Individuals With Intellectual And/or Developmental Disabilities In Trauma Recovery
Behavior Support Planning: Preparation and Practice
- Behavior Basics: Assessment and Observation
- Behavior Basics: Understanding and Interpreting Data
- Behavior Basics: Developing Meaningful Interventions
- Behavior Basics: Evaluating Your Plan’s Effectiveness
- Case Illustration: Evaluating and Adapting The Behavior Support Plan
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Thank you for an Excellent 23rd Annual Conference! |
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Get On-Demand Access Today |
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Resources & Virtual Forums |
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Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic
Expansion Grant Deep Dive Webinar
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Interested in becoming a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC)? The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration’s (SAMHSA) CCBHC Expansion (CCBHC-E) Grant program provides funding to clinics to establish the model and increase access to and improve the quality of community mental health and substance use treatment services. Learn more about these opportunities and considerations for applicants in this upcoming webinar from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing’s CCBHC Success Center.
Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Expansion Grant Deep Dive
Tuesday, December 7, 3-4 p.m. ET
This informational session, coming to you in anticipation of SAMHSA’s next round of CCBHC expansion grants, will provide an overview of the CCBHC core requirements, review recent funding opportunity announcements (FOA), provide answers to frequently asked questions and share strategic guidance and tips for implementing the CCBHC model. Check out our CCBHC Expansion Grants FAQs.
This session is intended to provide context and information. However, the National Council and presenters are unable to answer any inquiries on behalf of SAMHSA. Please direct any questions related to the funding opportunity itself to SAMHSA.
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Free Housing Assistance & Eviction Protection
Webinar with New Jersey Citizen Action
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Tuesday, December 7, 2021 | 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Thousands of New Jerseyans continue to struggle with paying their rent, mortgage or utility bills as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While New Jersey has many programs to assist individuals and families, many people are unaware of New Jersey's new eviction protections and the state's COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which will close on December 15th!
Join New Jersey Citizen Action for a FREE Housing Assistance Webinar on Tuesday, December 7th at 4:00pm to learn more about eviction protection, rental assistance, rental counseling, homeowner assistance, assistance with utility bills and much more. Learn what you need to know when applying, and how to get free help!
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DCM Associates Fall 2021 Webinar Series for Non-Profits |
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The DCM Associates Fall 2021 Webinar Series is here, and the nonprofit sector's most important topics are on the agenda.
December 8, 2021 @ 1:00 p.m. (EST)
Gregory A. Nielsen, Managing Director, Southeast Regional Office
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Also from DCM Associates
Take the 360 Leadership Assessment & Development
Is your nonprofit making the right decisions? When searching for a new leader, it’s crucial to find the best fit. Whether you’re looking for an outside or in-house hire, the 360 Leadership Assessment can help. Take the DCM 360 Leadership Assessment to discover the ideal leader for your nonprofit. It measures a candidate’s behavioral traits, cognitive abilities, and professional interests. This assessment is also helpful when considering upper-level leadership openings and promotions. It will determine if your current leaders are competent and successful in their role.
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Free Hybrid Conference
Building a Culture of Health in New Jersey:
Healing Communities & Connecting Voices
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December 9, 2021 - December 10, 2021
In this in-person and virtual conference, you’ll gain insights, tools and strategies needed to make an impact in your organization.
Back for the ninth year, this year’s theme is “Healing Communities & Connecting Voices.” From health equity to racial bias and stories of loss, kindness and resilience during the pandemic, expert speakers and panelists will share best practices and solutions through a variety of innovative educational sessions that are designed to help move our communities forward.
In addition, there will be a special exhibition of Community Conversations: Pandemic Perspectives, New Jersey’s COVID-19 Storytelling Project on Thursday, December 9 from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. The exhibit will showcase selected COVID-19 experiences shared by New Jersey residents in 2020 through interviews, stories, creative works and animations.
Important Safety Information: COVID precautions including proof of vaccination, social distancing and masking will be in place. See more at the links below.
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Trainings from the NJ Division on Civil Rights |
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The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination:
Cultivating a Discrimination-Free Workplace
For NJ Employers and Employees
All employees are entitled to a workplace that is inclusive and free from discrimination. This training will provide an overview of how the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) protects employees from harassment and discrimination. Through case studies and other interactive exercises, participants will examine the rights afforded to all employees and the responsibilities of employers to protect those rights. Topics include what constitutes a hostile work environment, workplace accommodation requirements, employer liability, and reporting processes. Participants will also explore the ways in which implicit biases can lead to discrimination, and how to foster respectful environments in which discrimination and harassment are not tolerated.
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Dump the Assumptions: Responding to Implicit Bias
For NJ Employers and Employees
This interactive, virtual training will introduce participants to the concept of implicit bias. Participants will consider how implicit bias manifests in our interactions with others and explore strategies for addressing implicit bias in ourselves and in the workplace. Participants will also learn about how the NJ Law Against Discrimination protects individuals from discrimination and bias-based harassment in the workplace.
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There are many great ways of supporting SHA: Join as a member, send donations, or shop with AmazonSmile. Thank you for your support!
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Want all the member benefits with SHA? Visit our website or contact Joseph Christensen to apply or manage your membership.
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Members can post jobs to find applicants within the wider supportive housing community. Click on the button to visit our job page.
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Diane Riley, Executive Director
Joseph Christensen, Membership & Communication Manager
Kate Kelly, MSW – Integrated Community Project Manager
Diane Klein, Conference Registrar
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Advocate ● Educate ● Support
The Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey unites its diverse coalition of members engaging development, resources, and information to sustain supportive housing systems within New Jersey. Since 1998, our statewide mission seeks to enhance lives and accessibility to enable independent living within our communities.
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Supportive Housing Association of New Jersey
185 Valley Street, South Orange, NJ 07079
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