After identifying an increased risk of anxiety, depression, loneliness and substance use amid the COVID-19 crisis, the Community Affairs and Resource Center (CARC) led this project to build resiliency in children and families in underserved communities. With a focus on families who have young children and limited access to mental health services, CARC provided a series of Resilience Skills for Psychological Wellness trainings and tailored its case management approaches to increase well-being. In addition, CARC provided complementary supports such as counseling and financial assistance with rent, utilities and essential items to participating households. Through its collaborative work with health care, school district and other community partners, CARC has equipped Monmouth County families with the skills and resources to address their own mental health needs and cope with stress, which could inform efforts to build resiliency throughout the state.

In February 2021, nearly one year after the onset of the pandemic, CARC Executive Director Beatriz Oesterheld and CARC Program Manager Paola Marin recorded their reflections on the impact of this work and shared their goals and recommendations for an equitable recovery. Scroll down to watch the video.