HOPE Sheds Light Receives Federal Grant to Expand Recovery Programs

HOPE Sheds Light, a nonprofit organization in New Jersey dedicated to supporting individuals and families dealing with substance use disorder, has received a significant federal grant to expand its recovery efforts. The $1,005,000 award from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) Building Communities of Recovery program will provide approximately $335,000 annually over three years.

"This is a pivotal moment for HOPE Sheds Light as we continue to support those on their recovery journeys," said Pamela Capaci, CEO of HOPE Sheds Light. "The funding will allow us to reach more individuals and families, strengthen existing connections, and create more pathways to long-term recovery."

HOPE Sheds Light, founded by Ron Rosetto, Stephen Willis, and Arvo Prima, has been operating in Ocean and Monmouth counties for over a decade. The organization provides peer support, education, resources, and opportunities for long-term recovery. The grant will build upon this foundation, enabling HOPE Sheds Light to expand its community-based recovery initiatives.

"We started HOPE Sheds Light from a personal place," said Stephen Willis, co-founder of the organization. "We understood the struggles families face and believed our experiences could help others. This funding allows us to scale our efforts, offering hope and support to a broader community."

The federal funding will support various programs, including peer recovery support, family programs, education, community outreach, and partnerships. It will also strengthen connections among existing community resources, making it easier for individuals and families to find the support they need at different stages of their recovery journey.

HOPE Sheds Light’s mission is to raise awareness and educate the community about substance use disorder. The organization honors the memories of Marc Rosetto, Mark Willis, and Paavo Prima, whose lives have inspired HOPE Sheds Light’s mission. By fostering a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment, HOPE Sheds Light aims to remove the fear and stigma surrounding addiction and provide the necessary support for healing and recovery.

The grant is part of $77 million in new federal funding announced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through SAMHSA to strengthen substance use prevention, treatment, and recovery, community mental health, suicide prevention, and crisis services nationwide.