In a partnership that is now in its third year, Walmart is working with the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute’s Mayors Wellness Campaign (MWC) to strengthen community wellness initiatives across the Garden State. The mental health initiative, funded in part by Walmart, supports programs that are tailored to the unique needs of each community, helping to reduce stigma and expand access to care.
“We’re honored to stand alongside these incredible local leaders who know their communities best,” Jennifer Hoehn, Walmart’s director of Public Affairs, said. “Walmart is here to ensure they have the tools and resources to turn big ideas into real, life-changing programs that help people live better.”
The initiative’s programs are as diverse as the communities they serve. Since 2023, Walmart’s support has funded more than 30 municipalities in their efforts to deliver creative and impactful mental health programs. Examples include equine therapy in Woodlynne, youth mindfulness in Wildwood Crest, and creative expression through art therapy in Plainfield.
Mayor Adrian Mapp of Plainfield emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating, “Our city is at its best when every resident feels supported, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Mental health should never be a silent struggle.” He added that the goal is to “help break stigma, reduce stress, and remind our community that no one is alone.”
Walmart’s support of the MWC is part of a broader commitment to New Jersey. In a single fiscal year, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation provided more than $10.8 million in cash and in-kind support to New Jersey-based organizations.
“This is how public-private partnerships should work,” said Julie Desimone, director of community health at the New Jersey Health Care Quality Institute. “Walmart’s support helps turn local vision into measurable change.”
Other recent highlights include:
- Asbury Park hosted a Juneteenth “Food Stories and Soul Food” dinner, using cultural celebration as a path to wellness. Mayor John Moor explained, “We took a bold, holistic approach to mental health in Asbury Park by addressing root causes that affect our community daily… Families are sharing recipes and reporting renewed mental and physical energy.”
- Wildwood Crest runs weekly wellness workshops and youth programs centered on mindfulness and movement. Mayor Don Cabrera noted, “By focusing on fitness, mindfulness, and breathwork… we’re creating opportunities for healing, connection, and positive social engagement.”
- Perth Amboy offers monthly Mental Health First Aid workshops, training residents to respond with empathy and skill.
- Plainfield continues a wide-ranging creative campaign, from yoga and painting to a community Glow Run.
- Woodlynne introduced equine and canine-assisted therapy sessions and upcoming workshops focused on addiction and homelessness prevention. Mayor Joseph Chukwueke reflected, “It has not only reduced stigma, but created a culture of awareness, compassion, and early support for residents and families.”
