Stigma Free Resolution

172-14 September 9, 2014 RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the Township Council of the Township of West Orange (the “Township”) recognizes that, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (“SAMHSA”), one in five Americans have experienced issues with mental illness; and WHEREAS, despite major accomplishments and the progress achieved, New Jersey must still overcome significant challenges before it can reach the goal of making quality mental health care available to all those who need it; and WHEREAS, according to SAMHSA, mental health problems are more common than cancer and heart disease combined, and according to the Veteran’s Administration (“VA”), more than half of all Iraq and Afghanistan veterans hospitalized at VA hospitals are treated for mental illness, and the stigma associated with mental illness is the biggest roadblock to recovery; and WHEREAS, the Codey Fund for Mental Health has initiated a statewide campaign requesting towns throughout New Jersey to designate their municipality a Stigma Free Town; and WHEREAS, by declaring West Orange a Stigma Free Town, West Orange supports the elimination of any stigma associated with mental health illness and will promote public awareness of mental health issues and the removal of any barriers to recovery, and work to overcome stigma, stereotyping and discrimination. NOW, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Township Council of the Township of West Orange that the Township of West Orange is a Stigma Free Town. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that on major thoroughfares in and out of the municipality, road signs be erected showing the establishment of a Stigma Free Town. Karen J. Carnevale, Municipal Clerk Susan McCartney, Council President Adopted: September 9, 2014 4828-0515-5102, v. 1