On September 24, 2024, over 30 families gathered at the RWJ Wellness Center in Trenton, NJ, for Connecting NJ's Employment & Resource Fair. This event was designed to support birthing people and their families by connecting them with essential resources to help navigate employment challenges and barriers. The fair brought together a diverse range of agencies and organizations that offered assistance in areas like employment rights, childcare, health services, and more.

A Community of Support

Anicia Weelkly-Roman, Mercer County Community Alignment Specialist and the event organizer, opened the fair with inspiring words, emphasizing that all the attending vendors were working together to be part of the solution for working parents. "Today is about creating a one-stop-shop for parents who need answers about childcare, food assistance, resume help, and so much more," she said, underscoring the importance of holistic support for families facing employment challenges.

A Wide Range of Resources

The fair featured numerous local and regional organizations dedicated to addressing the needs of working parents:

• Avanzar: Providing support services to families, including those impacted by domestic violence.
• Mercer Community College: Offering educational programs and career pathways.
• Latin American Legal Defense and Education Fund: Helping families with legal guidance and support, including workers' rights and immigration issues.
• Tru Doulas: Providing birthing and postpartum support.
• Kelly Services for Trenton Public Schools: Connecting individuals with employment opportunities in education.
• Henry J. Austin Health Center: Offering healthcare services for families in the region.
• Family Connects NJ: Connecting families with healthcare and support services during the postpartum period.
• Encouraging Kids: Supporting the developmental needs of children.
• Department of Labor: Offering employment rights guidance and job placement services.
• Bayada: Providing home healthcare services and employment opportunities.
• Center for Family Services: Offering counseling, support, and family resources.
• Rainbow Social Work: Providing mental health and social work services.
• Maternal and Infant Health Innovation Authority: Supporting maternal and infant health initiatives.
• Greater Mercer Transportation Management Association: Offering transportation solutions for working families.
• Trenton Area Soup Kitchen: Providing food assistance and job readiness programs.
• Isles: Empowering families with education, housing, and community development.
• Mercer Family Support Organization: Offering advocacy and support for families in crisis.
• Mercer Council: Addressing substance use prevention and recovery services.
• Mercer County Board of Social Services: Offering public assistance programs.
• Universal Health Services Inc: Delivering behavioral health services.
• Catholic Charities: Providing comprehensive family support, including housing and food assistance.
• Womenspace: Supporting survivors of domestic violence and providing resources for safe living.
• Child Care Connections: Connecting parents with affordable childcare options.
• Children’s Futures: Focusing on health and wellness for families in Mercer County.
• Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Mercer County: Providing educational programs for families and individuals.
• Capitol Health – Nurse Practitioner Cathie Olson: Offering maternal health services.

Building a Stronger Future

Attendees had the opportunity to speak with representatives from each agency, collect valuable resources, and participate in workshops addressing resume-building, interview skills, and overcoming common work barriers. The event also featured interactive stations, raffles, and refreshments, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for everyone involved.

Connecting NJ's Employment & Resource Fair was more than just an event—it was a lifeline for families seeking guidance and support as they navigate the challenges of balancing work and family life. With the collective efforts of these organizations, birthing people and their families were empowered with the tools they need to build stronger futures for themselves and their children.