EDGE New Jersey

EDGE New Jersey is the primary health equity and LGBTQ+ community service organization in Morris County and the surrounding North Central New Jersey region. Originally founded in 1992 as the AIDS Residence Coalition to establish the Eric Johnson House, a transitional residence for people facing HIV/AIDS, the organization has continuously evolved to meet emerging community health needs. Today, the agency delivers an integrated spectrum of compassionate services that combine medical case management, licensed mental health therapy, mobile harm reduction, food security, and affirming community programming for individuals and families.

The organization’s clinical and behavioral health division offers culturally competent psychotherapy, substance use counseling, and psychiatric medication management designed specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals and people affected by chronic illness. Licensed clinicians provide individual counseling and specialized peer support groups addressing gender identity, coming out, relationship dynamics, trauma, and living with HIV. By removing structural barriers to mental health support, EDGE ensures that every client receives affirming, confidential care in an inclusive and welcoming clinical setting.

Through its public health and prevention initiatives, EDGE New Jersey conducts free, confidential rapid HIV and hepatitis C testing both at its Parsippany health center and throughout the community via its mobile health outreach van. Staff specialists assist individuals in obtaining pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), navigating health insurance coverage, and securing affordable prescription access. The agency’s harm reduction team provides life-saving supplies, including naloxone overdose reversal kits, fentanyl test strips, and sterile equipment, alongside street-level education, safer sex distribution, and compassionate medical referrals.

In addition to direct healthcare, EDGE provides comprehensive support services to address the broader social determinants of health. Dedicated medical case managers assist clients living with HIV with emergency rental subsidies, utility relief, medical transportation assistance, and enrollment in public benefit programs. The on-site food pantry supplies nutritious groceries and essential personal care items to individuals and families facing food insecurity across the region. Staff members also assist clients with health literacy education, empowering them to advocate effectively for their overall wellness, access essential nutrition, and navigate healthcare systems with confidence.

Beyond direct clinical and social services, EDGE New Jersey serves as a vital community anchor and the primary organizer of Morris County Pride, bringing together thousands of local residents, businesses, and civic leaders each summer for celebratory and educational events. The organization also hosts signature community gatherings such as the Liberation Ball and the annual Dining Out For Life benefit. Through collaborative partnerships with local schools, regional hospital networks, and municipal leaders, EDGE champions equity, wellness, and visibility. Community members can connect with care through the Parsippany center, and supporters can advance the mission by volunteering, attending events, or providing philanthropic contributions to sustain health equity across northern New Jersey.