TRENTON, N.J. - Marylandian -- The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (YMCA Alliance) will host a news conference to announce the launch of the Bright Path Youth Mental Health Program, an innovative initiative funded by a $200,000 grant from Horizon BCBSNJ through its charitable giving arm, The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey (Horizon Foundation). The program aims to strengthen the mental well-being of children in 21 YMCA after-school programs statewide, reaching 350 children.

When: The news conference will take place 10 a.m. – 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 29.

Where: Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 357 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy, NJ 08861

Why: Children's mental health challenges are showing up earlier and more often, with nearly one in five U.S. children ages 3–17 struggling with mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. The YMCA Alliance and Horizon are responding to this urgent need with a program designed to build resilience, empathy, and belonging among elementary school–aged children in after-school settings.

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Who: Speakers /Topics

• Julie Gallanty, YMCA Alliance CEO, Welcome Remarks
• Jonathan Pearson, Horizon Foundation's Executive Director,
  Horizon's Commitment to Youth Mental Health
• Alejandrina Batista, Director of Mental Health Services, Raritan Bay Area YMCA, Why Mental Health Resources are Needed in YMCA After-School Programs
• Steve Jobin, CEO, Raritan Bay Area YMCA, Closing Remarks

About the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance
The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance is a statewide nonprofit organization leading a coalition of 30 independent YMCA associations. Through public policy, statewide initiatives, strategic partnerships, and service delivery, the Alliance fosters a greater ability for YMCAs, community partners and leaders across the state to impact families, improve community health and advance equity. Our collective voice strengthens local communities while promoting youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For more information, visit www.njymca.org.

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About The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey
Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey's philanthropic arm, The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, is focused on making New Jersey healthier by supporting non-profit organizations that expand access to health care, remove barriers to good health and increase opportunities for everyone to achieve their best health, no matter who they are or where they live. Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey and The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. For more information, please visit HorizonBlue.com/Foundation.