VNACJ - Community Health Center

Every breastfeeding journey is unique, and every family deserves support along the way. 💙

This Breastfeeding Awareness Month, we're proud to share insights from Dr. Dermer and celebrate the strength, dedication, and care of parents and caregivers in our community.

📢 Are you a NJ FamilyCare member?
Be sure to check your mail and email for important updates regarding your eligibility and coverage.

📢 ¿Es miembro de NJ FamilyCare?
Revise su correo postal y correo electrónico para recibir actualizaciones importantes sobre su elegibilidad y cobertura.

Scan the QR code to update your information quickly and easily. / Escanee el código QR para actualizar su información de forma rápida y sencilla.

https://dmahs-nj.my.site.com/addressupdate/

🧵 Another powerful experience from the conference was viewing panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt. The quilt began after a candlelight march when the names of people lost to HIV/AIDS were taped to a federal building, creating a quilt-like appearance. Today, it remains one of the most significant symbols of remembrance in the HIV/AIDS movement.

Each panel honors a life lost and tells a unique story. For Luna, seeing pieces of the quilt in person was both moving and inspiring, highlighting the importance of remembering the past while continuing to advocate for equitable access to care, education, and support for those affected by HIV.

The quilt was originally displayed in 1987 at the National Mall and was last displayed in 1996 when it became too large. It is now housed at the National AIDS memorial in San Francsico. There are 7 days in June in which different places can host part of the quilt. You can visit the entire quilt online.

As the conference comes to a close, Luna is returning with renewed hope, valuable insights, and new ideas for supporting patients.

❤️ One of the most meaningful moments of the conference for Luna was hearing from and meeting Jeanne White-Ginder, mother of Ryan White. She shared her son's story, his battle with HIV/AIDS, and her pride in seeing how far treatment, advocacy, and access to care have come over the years.

Meeting Jeanne was a highlight of the conference and put a face to the work that Ryan White providers and advocates do every day. Her story served as a powerful reminder of the lives impacted by HIV and the progress that continues to be made through education, treatment, and compassionate care.

📊 One of the conference sessions highlighted the latest Ryan White Program data and the measurable impact these services continue to have nationwide. These are the same outcome figures shared during Ryan White program orientations and serve as a reminder of how effective comprehensive HIV care can be.

For Luna, seeing the data presented alongside stories from programs across the country reinforced the importance of continued investment in HIV care, treatment, and support services. Behind every statistic is an individual whose life has been positively impacted through access to quality healthcare and resources.

✨ This week, Luna Canola, Ryan White/LGBTQ Program Manager, had the opportunity to attend a national Ryan White conference in D.C, where providers, advocates, and community leaders from across the country gathered to discuss the future of HIV care, treatment, and support services. The conference began with a plenary session focused on the history and purpose of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program and the impact it continues to have on communities nationwide.

💬 Luna's Reflection
"This conference was an incredible opportunity to learn, connect with others doing this work across the country, and see the innovation and commitment that continues to improve HIV care. I'm excited to bring these insights back to our community and share what I've learned."

📲 Stay tuned throughout the day as Luna takes over our social media and shares highlights from her experience in Washington, D.C., including key lessons, inspiring speakers, and memorable moments from the conference.

📚✏️ Back-to-school season is here!

Make sure your child is ready for a healthy and successful school year with an up-to-date physical for school records and sports participation. 🏃‍♀️🏈

✅ School & Sports Physicals
✅ Immunizations
✅ Dental Appointments

Services are available at all four VNACJ Community Health Center locations (Asbury Park, Keyport, Red Bank, Freehold).

📲 Scan the QR code to self-schedule, or call us at (732) 774-6333 to make an appointment or ask any questions.

Let's start the school year strong! 💙

Behind every successful outreach event, health screening, educational program, and community resource is a network of dedicated partners who share our vision for a healthier future. 💙

This Partner Appreciation Day, we recognize and thank the many community organizations, schools, businesses, agencies, and advocates who work with us to improve access to healthcare and essential services. Your collaboration helps us reach more individuals and families every day.

Together, we are building healthier communities. 👨‍👩‍👧