The Hillsborough Health Collaborative typically meets online on the fourth Friday of each month from 10-11am.

To attend, please contact us at healthcollaborative@hillsboroughnj.gov

Who We Are

We are a coalition of local stakeholders working to identify and address key issues related to community health and wellness. Members include representatives from township departments, local organizations and businesses, schools, faith-based groups, health care providers, senior citizens, college students, and community residents. We are an open community collaborative.

Hillsborough Health Collaborative 2025 group picture

Mission Statement

To bring together diverse community members and stakeholders to identify, address, and advance key issues impacting health and wellness in our township. Through open collaboration, data-driven assessment, and strategic action planning, we work to improve the health and quality of life for all residents.

Contact Us

healthcollaborative@hillsboroughnj.gov

Local Health Needs Assessment

In 2023, we conducted a comprehensive Local Health Assessment to better understand the health needs, challenges, and strengths of the community. We researched local health statistics, conducted interviews and focus groups, distributed a community health survey, and analyzed all of the data. Here are the areas we identified as most concerning:

Mental Health & Substance Use – Mental health issues are common, and stigma and provider shortages make care hard to access. Youth substance use, including vaping, is a major concern.
Chronic Disease – Many residents are affected by diabetes, cancer, and heart disease, especially in specific areas.
Access to Healthy Food – Some residents struggle to afford or reach healthy food options, despite overall access by car.
Community Engagement – Residents want more connection, inclusive representation, and community events.
Communication about Resources – Many are unaware of local programs and services and want clearer, more accessible information.

Sustainable Jersey is a movement of municipalities working together to bring about a sustainable New Jersey. Municipalities complete best practice “actions” that contribute to a sustainable future.

Health Action Plan

We then worked to create a Health Action Plan to address these concerns, through a series of short- and long-term actions. The plan will guide Collaborative actions across sectors to ensure meaningful, measurable progress toward a healthier, more connected Hillsborough. Below is a list of the actions:

Short-term Strategies	Status
1. Promote existing mental health resources	Ongoing
2. Adopt Complete & Green Streets for All Policy	Complete
3. Adopt Safe Routes to School program	Complete
4. Provide community support for physical activity	Ongoing
5. Create a community garden	Complete
6. Complete the Community Equity & Diversity Profile	Complete
7. Develop a Welcome newsletter/packet for renters	In process
8. Implement a Community Resource Guide distribution plan	Ongoing
Long-term Strategies	Status
1. Strengthen tobacco/vaping ordinance and education	In process
2. Work with childcare centers and preschools to adopt nutrition and physical activity standards	Not yet started
3. Expand mobile outreach efforts	In process
4. Implement Diversity on Boards and Commissions action	In process

Priority Populations

Special attention is given to groups more significantly impacted by health disparities, including:

People with low income and limited assets
Seniors, children, and young adults
People who have difficulty accessing information
People with chronic health conditions
Those experiencing isolation (cultural, geographic, or social)

Gold Star in Health

On November 19, 2024, Hillsborough proudly earned the Gold Star in Health, recognizing our commitment to building a healthier community. We are one of only five municipalities in the state, and the first in Somerset County, to receive this honor.

Achieved the Gold Star in Health!

Click here to see the full Health Action Plan.

Click here to view a detailed report of the local health assessment

We are supported by the following groups/organizations:

Hillsborough Township Health Department

This township department provides and supports essential public health services.

Sustainable Hillsborough

This committee implements best practices to contribute to a sustainable future. Hillsborough has been certified with Sustainable Jersey for 12 years.

Mayors Wellness Campaign

This community health initiative is led by the NJ Health Care Quality Institute with the NJ State League of Municipalities, promoting healthy, active living and wellness.