Friday, May 11th, Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) joined the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office’s Clergy Breakfast to discuss the opioid crisis ravaging North Jersey. Attendees included more than 100 members of Bergen County clergy, law enforcement, County Executive Jim Tedesco and Sheriff Michael Saudino.

The group discussed efforts to combat the opioid crisis, fight bias and discrimination, and ensure towns and non-profits have the resources they need to protect our schools, community centers, and places of worship. Gottheimer emphasized our country’s proud history of religious freedom, and the need for Americans from all backgrounds to focus on what unites us, rather than what divides us.

Last month, Gottheimer announced his Student Athlete-Stop Addiction Strategy to help protect student athletes from the opioid crisis. Congress recently appropriated $3.3 billion in new investment for SAMHSA, the Centers for Disease Control, and the National Institute of Health to fight opioids. Last year, Gottheimer announced that SAMHSA invested $13 million dollars to improve New Jersey’s response to the state’s opioid epidemic, as allocated by the 21st Century Cures Act

“This morning’s breakfast showcased North Jersey’s rich diversity and strong commitment to upholding our Jersey values by fighting the opioid crisis,” said Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5). “The religious and community leaders who gathered this morning — working hand in hand with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office — are the key to fighting the opioid crisis in our state and country. Ultimately, I know that with persistence, and working across party lines, America can beat the opioid crisis.”

BELOW: Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) addresses the BCPO’s clergy breakfast.