Gopal, Donlon, and Peterpaul Announce $850,000 in Funding for Student Mental Health Programs Ahead of School Year

OCEAN TOWNSHIP, NJ –   As the new school year approaches, Senator Vin Gopal, Assemblywoman Margie Donlon, M.D., and Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul (D-Monmouth) are excited to announce $850,000 in funding dedicated to enhancing mental health programs across numerous Monmouth County school districts, including six in Legislative District 11. This crucial funding aims to bolster mental health support for students and ensure they have the resources needed for a successful academic year.

The allocation includes $250,000 for the Asbury Park School District to expand and enhance its student mental health programs. This significant investment will support comprehensive mental health services, providing students with critical resources to manage their well-being effectively. In addition, the Eatontown Public Schools, Tinton Falls School District, Red Bank Borough Public Schools, Shrewsbury Borough School District, Fair Haven Public Schools, and Ocean Township School District will each receive $100,000. These funds will be utilized to strengthen mental health assistance programs within these districts, promoting a supportive and nurturing educational environment.

Senator Gopal, chairman of the Senate Education Committee, emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Ensuring that our students have access to robust mental health resources is essential for their overall well-being and academic success. Our schools are on the front lines of identifying and addressing mental health challenges, and this funding is a vital step toward creating supportive environments where students can thrive. By investing in mental health programs, we are not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering long-term resilience and academic achievement.”

Assemblywoman Donlon, who has been a vocal supporter of mental health initiatives, added, “The mental health of our students directly influences their academic performance and overall quality of life. Expanding access to mental health services in schools is crucial for helping students manage stress and emotional challenges. This funding will empower our local schools to provide the necessary support and create a healthier learning environment for our children.”

Assemblywoman Peterpaul highlighted the regional impact of this funding, saying, “Strengthening mental health support across our school districts is a top priority. As a co-author of New Jersey’s Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights, I understand firsthand the importance of supporting children with mental health challenges. This legislation, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender expression, and gender identity, underscores our commitment to protecting vulnerable students. The recent budget allocation will ensure that schools are equipped to handle the mental health needs of their students, from early intervention to ongoing support. Our focus remains on providing resources that will help students navigate their academic journey while addressing their emotional and psychological needs.”

The funding secured for these initiatives is part of a broader effort by Gopal, Donlon, and Peterpaul to prioritize mental health and education. Gopal’s extensive track record in championing mental health legislation, including the expansion of telehealth services and support for school-based mental health programs, underscores his commitment to this cause. His work has been recognized nationally, including being honored by Mental Health America in 2022 for his advocacy.

As students and educators prepare to return to school this September, these investments in mental health services will play a crucial role in ensuring that students are supported and ready for a successful academic year. For the past several months Gopal, Donlon, and Peterpaul have been working in a bi-partisan effort with legislative leadership in Trenton to secure direct funds for the residents of the 11th Legislative District. Their efforts have returned millions of dollars to Monmouth County municipalities, schools, and nonprofit organizations in the FY2025 state budget.

Senator Vin Gopal, a lifelong resident of Monmouth County elected in 2018, serves as Senate Majority Conference Leader and Chair of the Senate Education Committee. Assemblywoman Dr. Margie Donlon, a practicing physician, serves on the Assembly Health and the Tourism, Gaming & the Arts Committees; Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul, Esq., serves on the Assembly Commerce, Economic Development & Agriculture and the Aging & Human Services Committees. They represent residents of Allenhurst, Asbury Park, Bradley Beach, Colts Neck, Deal, Eatontown, Fair Haven, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Interlaken, Loch Arbour, Long Branch, Neptune City, Neptune Township, Ocean Township, Red Bank, Shrewsbury Borough, Shrewsbury Township, and Tinton Falls in the State Senate and State Assembly.