Unsung Heroes: Catholic Charities’ PACT Teams

In the media - newspapers, television, and on-line, we hear about heroes in hospitals, EMS, police, supermarkets, food pantries, Amazon and so many others that step up in times of crisis.  We are so grateful for their service and compassion.  Dr. Esther Schlesinger wants you to know about another group of heroes. Dr. Schlesinger works for the Program of Assertive Community Treatment (PACT) team in Middlesex County at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, serving those with serious and persistent mental illness.

PACT teams exist throughout the state and in fact the country.  Catholic Charities operates three PACT teams within Middlesex County – in Perth Amboy, East Brunswick, and New Brunswick.  These teams are comprised of a variety of staff members, including nurses, social workers, licensed counselors and substance abuse counselors, peer advocates, vocational specialists, housing specialists, team leaders, and psychiatrists. 

These staff members work on the front lines, delivering food and medication, providing activities, and transporting clients to urgent doctor appointments.  The PACT teams provide support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  They support families and communicate with hospital staff as needed. 

The Catholic Charities' Program of Assertive Community Treatment (PACT) is guided by the principal that individuals with mental illness, even those with the most impaired functioning, can reside in normal settings in the community if adequate supports and services are provided.

Last year Catholic Charities’ PACT teams provided more than 15,000 hours of support to PACT consumers.  We join Dr. Schlesinger in bringing to light the wonderful work of the PACT team heroes to make sure their contributions are not overlooked.