Pallone Secures $5.5 Million for RWJ Barnabas Health’s COVID-19 Response

New Brunswick, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced $5.5 million in federal funding for RWJ Barnabas Health to reimburse expenses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding, provided through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will help offset the costs of essential supplies and protective measures that played a vital role in safeguarding public health in New Jersey.

“RWJ Barnabas Health was instrumental in saving lives and protecting New Jerseyans during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Pallone. “This funding helps cover the costs of their efforts, from providing ventilators to equipping frontline workers with protective gear. It’s a well-deserved recognition of the vital role they played during one of the most challenging times in our history, and it ensures they remain prepared for future public health emergencies.”

Earlier this month, Pallone announced $21.2 million for RWJ Barnabas Health to reimburse pandemic-related costs, including essential drugs, testing kits, and staffing expenses during the height of patient surges. Combined, these investments represent a significant federal commitment to supporting New Jersey’s largest health system and its work to protect residents during the crisis.

The grant announced today covers expenses between July 2022 and May 2023 for critical items such as ventilators, surgical masks, gloves, and other personal protective equipment. This funding is part of FEMA’s ongoing COVID-19 disaster relief efforts and accounts for 90% of the total project cost, which exceeds $6.1 million. The State of New Jersey will distribute the funds to RWJ Barnabas Health following the completion of the documentation and review process.

RWJ Barnabas Health is the state’s largest integrated health care system, serving millions of residents annually across its hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialty programs. During the pandemic, the system was on the front lines, providing life-saving care, administering vaccines, and ensuring that health care workers and patients had the resources they needed to stay safe.

This federal funding highlights the critical partnership between the federal government and local health systems to address the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 and prepare for future health emergencies.