UPPER SADDLE RIVER, N.J. – Mentors from Upper Saddle River and Allendale will work to protect area youngsters from the growing opioid epidemic thanks to a $150,000 federal grant – one of only three issued nationwide this year.
The success of a drug-mentoring program in Mahwah inspired Upper Saddle River Mayor Joanne Minichetti to pursue the newly-formed Northern Highlands Municipal Alliance, comprised of community leaders, parents, teachers, religious and fraternal organizations, healthcare and business professionals, members of law enforcement and the media, and other youngsters.
“The partnership between Upper Saddle River and Allendale is a true win, since we share our high school and student/parent community,” Minichetti said.
“Allendale and Upper Saddle River extend our gratitude to Mahwah’s Municipal Alliance, Mayor Bill Laforet, the Mahwah Council and Police Chief Batelli,” Minichetti said, noting that Mahwah “Generously provided the application funds.”