Mercer Times

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin has announced the expansion of the ARRIVE Together program to Brick Township and Toms River Township, marking its availability in New Jersey's 15 most populous municipalities. This initiative aims to address mental health crises by pairing police departments with mental health professionals from Bright Harbor Healthcare.

Governor Phil Murphy emphasized the program's goal: “ARRIVE Together’s primary mission is to connect individuals in mental distress with certified mental health professionals, ensuring these crises are de-escalated safely, fairly, and efficiently.” He highlighted the dual benefit of protecting those in crisis and enhancing community safety.

Attorney General Platkin noted that since its inception, there have been approximately 7,000 interactions under ARRIVE Together. He stated, “Every successful encounter is a testament to New Jersey’s commitment to approaching these calls with compassion.”

The program has expanded statewide due to increased funding since December 2021. The Fiscal Year 2025 budget allocated $20.1 million for current operations and future growth.

The Office of Alternative and Community Responses (OACR), led by Tiffany Wilson, coordinates initiatives like ARRIVE Together. Wilson remarked on the positive outcomes: “When law enforcement officers work in concert with mental and behavioral health professionals on calls involving individuals in distress, everyone benefits.”

Kimberly Veith of Bright Harbor Healthcare expressed pride in expanding their partnership with local police departments through ARRIVE Together: “The ultimate goal is to help build strong, healthy communities.”

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer praised the program as a success: “We ask so much of our law enforcement officers – ARRIVE Together gives our officers the resources that are so sorely needed when dealing with members of our communities that are suffering from a mental health crisis.”

The pilot began with New Jersey State Police troopers paired with Cumberland County Guidance Center screeners responding to emergencies. Over 6,500 interactions have occurred without serious injuries or unnecessary force.

Brick Township will implement an on-site presence one day a week at its police department for mental health support, similar to Toms River's model.

New Jersey's largest municipalities now all participate in ARRIVE Together:

- Newark

- Jersey City

- Paterson

- Elizabeth

- Lakewood Township

- Edison Township

- Woodbridge Township

- Toms River Township

- Hamilton Township

- Trenton

- Clifton

- Cherry Hill Township

- Brick Township

- Camden

- Bayonne

Residents experiencing a crisis can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for support.