A new initiative is bringing dedicated mental health support into the familiar, comfortable setting of New Jersey after-school programs. Yesterday, the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (YMCA Alliance) announced the launch of the Bright Path Youth Mental Health program, an effort to integrate emotional well-being and resilience lessons into the daily lives of children.
The pilot program, made possible by a $200,000 grant from The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey, the charitable arm of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, will operate in 21 YMCA after-school care programs across the state. It aims to impact 350 children in kindergarten through sixth grade.
The initiative arrives amid a national rise in youth mental health concerns, emphasizing the critical need for early, accessible support.
“At the Y, we believe every child deserves to feel supported, connected, and confident,” said YMCA Alliance President and CEO Julie Gallanty at a news conference. “Thanks to Horizon, our staff are gaining the training and tools to nurture children’s mental well-being right where they already feel at home — in their YMCA after-school programs.”
The program will weave lessons on emotional well-being, communication, and connection into the rhythm of activities, homework, and games.
Jonathan Pearson, executive director of the Horizon Foundation, noted the foundation’s priority on youth mental health. “We’re proud to once again partner with the YMCA, this time to strengthen emotional well-being for kids across the state,” Pearson said.
The community-based approach is designed to overcome the stigma often associated with mental health services.
“Mental health challenges are showing up earlier and more often, and families are feeling the impact,” Alejandrina Batista, who oversees mental health services at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA said. “By weaving lessons about empathy, belonging, and communication… we’re helping them build emotional strength in a setting they know and trust.” The curriculum is designed to benefit every child, ensuring no stigma.
Local leaders, including Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin J. Caba and state legislators like Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin and Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez, voiced strong support, highlighting how this partnership creates essential community-based solutions.
Families will also be involved in evaluating the program’s success, completing pre- and post-surveys to measure their children’s growth in confidence, connection, and emotional well-being.
The Bright Path pilot will run during the 2025-26 school year, with participating YMCA associations including Raritan Bay Area YMCA, Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, YMCA of the Jersey Shore, and others.
