On March 31, 2026, New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Dr. Stephen Cha marked a significant milestone by making Integrity House his first official stop at a treatment provider since taking office. Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Valerie Mielke, the visit highlighted the essential role of integrated, community-based care for New Jersey’s most vulnerable residents.
A Firsthand Look at Integrated Recovery
The leadership team toured a cross-section of Integrity House’s 55-year legacy of service. Key stops included:
- Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC): Located at 1091 Broad Street, offering 24/7 crisis stabilization and walk-in mental health and addiction treatment.
- Integrity Wellness Center: A no-cost space at 26 South Street providing harm reduction supplies, naloxone, and HIV/Hepatitis testing.
- Mobile Community Care: A specialized vehicle bringing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and recovery support directly to individuals experiencing homelessness.
Protecting Families and the Path to Stability
Commissioner Cha and Deputy Commissioner Mielke engaged deeply with the Pregnant and Postpartum Women’s (PPW) Residential Treatment program. This initiative allows women to remain with their non-adult children while receiving MAT, parenting skill development, and connections to pediatric care.
“Commissioner Cha and Deputy Commissioner Mielke’s visit speaks to the critical role that organizations like Integrity House play in the health and well-being of New Jersey communities,” said Robert Budsock, President and CEO of Integrity House.
Addressing Federal Funding Challenges
The visit wasn’t just a tour; it was a call for advocacy. Budsock and Chief Clinical Officer, Eman Gibson, shared urgent concerns regarding proposed federal Medicaid cuts under H.R. 1. Discussions focused on how new work requirements and recertification hurdles could disrupt continuous coverage for those in recovery. By meeting directly with clients, the Commissioners heard firsthand how these programs provide a human face to the statistics of stability and recovery.
