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Expanding Access to Care: Rutgers Health Mobile Unit Supports Newark’s Unhoused Residents


Update from the New Jersey Medication-Assisted Treatment Centers of Excellence Newsletter

On January 15, 2025, Mayor Ras J. Baraka unveiled an expansion of Newark’s groundbreaking homelessness program, prominently featuring the Rutgers Health Mobile Unit. This innovative initiative aims to deliver comprehensive medical and behavioral health support to the city’s unhoused residents,
addressing not only their immediate health needs but also the underlying issues contributing to homelessness.

Rutgers Health’s Mobile Unit is a vital lifeline for individuals facing complex challenges, including chronic disease, substance abuse, and mental health issues. As Lavanya Kamineni, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner associated with the Mobile Unit, stated, “Substance use is one of the major problems…
Everything we do is based on the relationship we build with the person.” This focus on personal connections enhances the effectiveness of care, fostering trust and engagement among vulnerable populations.

The expanded outreach program combines multi- disciplinary teams with customized medical support unit trucks, enabling healthcare professionals to meet residents where they are. This approach empowers the unhoused to gain access to essential treatments, ongoing counseling, and recovery support. With services tailored to individual needs, the Rutgers Health Mobile Unit embodies a holistic approach to healthcare, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward wellness.

Through partnerships with local organizations, including RWJBarnabas Health and community advocates, Rutgers Health is at the forefront of a comprehensive response to homelessness. The
Mobile Unit not only addresses medical needs but also serves as a beacon of hope, guiding individuals toward recovery and stability. Together, we are reshaping the landscape of care for Newark’s most vulnerable residents, making a profound impact on the future of our community.