Mayor Fagan Proclaims May Mental Health Awareness Month in Summit

SUMMIT, NJ — Mayor Elizabeth Fagan officially proclaimed May as Mental Health Awareness Month during last week's Common Council meeting, highlighting Summit’s participation in the regional “Paint the Town Green” campaign led by the NJ Cross-Town Mental Health Coalition.In reading the proclamation aloud, Fagan emphasized the importance of mental wellness, early intervention, and reducing stigma surrounding mental health diagnoses. The proclamation stated that mental wellness contributes to “higher productivity, better education experiences, and improved quality of life,” while also calling for stronger community support systems and increased awareness.Fagan said Summit is committed to creating “a safe and nurturing community with accessible health services and education to promote well-being for all people.”The mayor also praised Summit residents Annette and David Guida for helping organize this year’s month-long awareness effort involving 14 communities across Union, Morris, and Essex counties. Fagan noted the coalition coordinated events throughout May and encouraged residents to visit the city website for information and resources.During the meeting, Annette Guida thanked the city, local businesses, and the Summit communications office for helping spread awareness through green ribbons, signage, and community participation.The city’s Mental Health Awareness Month initiatives are part of the second annual “Paint the Town Green” campaign, which includes wellness programming, educational events, and outreach efforts aimed at expanding access to mental health resources and encouraging conversations around mental health.