Assistance Program
Tyrone Smith, Chairman, Cell 973-573-9694
The NJ FMBA Assistance Program acts as a referral agency for members of their families seeking help for substance abuse and stress related problems.
The program promotes an understanding of substance abuse (Alcoholism and/or drug addiction) as a disease; eating disorders, smoking, gambling and every day stress problems.
It assists members in a confidential and non-judgmental manner. Members are educated through the use of videos, literature and lectures in order to promote self-help groups and departmental referrals.
This committee can intervene to promote self-help groups and departmental referrals. This committee can intervene and confront potential candidates at the request of their Officers or FMBA representatives.
Through this program, the FMBA provides a statewide network for those in need of assistance, and acts as a data bank in order to provide members access to a variety of assistance programs throughout the state. Under the direction of FMBA President Eddie Donnelly, a Peer Assistance Protocol to provide mental health and substance abuse services to the FMBA membership and their families was launched at the FMBA Convention and Educational Conference in Atlantic City on Wednesday, February 10, 2015.
This protocol provides emergency access to mental health and substance abuse treatment services 24/7 by contacting any member of the Peer Assistance Team. The team is comprised of Tyrone Smith, Peer Assistance Coordinator (973-573-9694) Dr.Michael Bizzarro (732-771-7165), Director of Clinical Services, Kenny Burkert Peer Specialist (908-346-1691). Critical Incident Stress Debriefing will continue to be coordinated through CISM Chairman Chris Whyte (908-721-6379) for emergency CISD call the 24 hour number 1-609-394-3600.
In addition to the emergency mental health and substance abuse services, the FMBA will now provide onsite counseling and triage at their headquarters one day a month by Dr. Michael Bizzarro. To schedule an appointment please contact the NJ FMBA Office at 732-499- 9250 or Dr. Michael Bizzarro directly 732-771-7165.
