In a major boost to regional health equity and housing stability, RWJBarnabas Health has announced a $1 million donation to the United Community Corporation (UCC). The critical funding acts as a financial lifeline, securing the long-term future of a vital local institution while directly doubling the capacity of its medical respite program for unhoused residents.
The partnership ensures that UCC can continue operating its Roseville Avenue emergency shelter for a minimum of three years, providing much-needed operational certainty and relief from financial strain.
For individuals experiencing homelessness who are discharged from hospitals, the transition can be exceptionally perilous without a safe place to heal. UCC’s medical respite program bridges this gap by offering short-term residential support, three daily meals, a clean environment for recuperation, and individualized resources aimed at long-term self-sufficiency.
With RWJBarnabas Health’s investment, the United Community Emergency Shelter will expand its resident capacity from 10 to 20 beds. Furthermore, the funding facilitates a more accessible location layout tailored specifically to individuals utilizing wheelchairs or living with other physical limitations.
Mark E. Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer of RWJBarnabas Health, emphasized the enduring impact of the collaboration:
“United Community Corporation has been a critical link to better health for Newark residents for better than six decades. We are proud to partner with them to ensure that not only can Newarkers who are among the most vulnerable continue their journeys to better health in a safe and supportive environment, but that this care can continue for the foreseeable future.”
Founded in 1964, UCC has spent more than sixty years acting as a cornerstone for Newark families, growing its footprint to nine locations across Essex County. Beyond emergency shelter, the organization administers critical programs encompassing food pantries, utility assistance, and employment services.
Craig Mainor, Executive Director of UCC, noted that the infusion of funds removes a heavy burden during a challenging financial period:
“This generous investment from RWJBarnabas Health helps relieve a significant financial burden and allows us to look ahead with greater confidence. As we prepare to serve residents at our ninth location, this support strengthens our ability to provide a safe place to recover…”
Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka also lauded the partnership, pointing out that the investment honors UCC’s legacy of uplifting the city’s most vulnerable populations.
This latest funding was made possible through resources from the state-supported Our Healthy Communities initiative. The program aligns closely with RWJBarnabas Health’s broader mission to target social determinants of health—such as housing insecurity and nutritional access—which account for a vast majority of overall health outcomes.
This project complements other recent health-equity initiatives launched by the health system in Newark, including:
- The opening of Harvest: A Farm to Community Center.
- The Brigaid partnership, embedding chef-made nutritious meals into Newark Public Schools.
- Mobile pediatric and community health clinics operating throughout Essex County.
Balpreet Grewal-Virk, PhD, Senior Vice President of Community Health at RWJBarnabas Health, summarized the core philosophy behind the initiative:
“Recovery does not end when someone leaves the hospital. Having a safe place to rest, regular meals and help navigating the next steps can make a meaningful difference.”
