The following is a stament release by The Honorable Mayor Ras J. Baraka:
“Yesterday, more than two thousand New Jersey inmates were released early in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. Here in the City of Newark, we made sure that they had a heartfelt welcome and set up 15-minute rapid coronavirus testing, administered by the New Jersey Department of Health.
Thankfully, of the 51 people tested, none of them were positive.
“On site, the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma, the Office of Homeless Services, the Department of Health and Community Wellness, and the Department of Public Safety worked collectively to provide the returning citizens with necessary information and tools, including mental health services, housing, employment and vocational opportunities to give them a fair chance as they reenter society.
They were also provided with safety tips to protect themselves and others from COVID-19.
“We’re in a time where it’s critical that we engage with those who have returned home to Newark and we want to ensure they have the resources to stay on a successful path.”