Union County honors New Jersey Sharing Network, highlights organ-donation statistics

The Board of County Commissioners honored the New Jersey Sharing Network and presented a resolution recognizing the nonprofit for its organ- and tissue-donation work statewide.

Chairwoman Leona Leon introduced the presentation, noting the New Jersey Sharing Network—s headquarters in New Providence and its federal designation as the nonprofit responsible for organ and tissue recovery and distribution in New Jersey. "For more than 36 years, they've worked alongside hospitals, transplant centers, and donor families to save and enhance lives across the state," Chairwoman Leon said.

A representative from the Sharing Network thanked the county for the recognition and described the group—s work and outreach. The transcript records the presenter saying the organization operates "24/7, 365" to facilitate donation and highlighted National/Donate Life Month outreach and the group—s annual 5K celebration of life in New Providence, scheduled for June 8.

Statistics cited at the meeting: the transcript states that in 2024 New Jersey reached a record "297 organ donors and 743 organs transplanted," nearly 4,000 New Jersey residents are waiting for transplants, and nationally about 3,000 people are on the waiting list; the presenter also said "every 8 minutes another person is added to that list and tragically 17 people die each day while waiting." The transcript notes "just one organ and tissue donor has the power to save up to eight lives and enhance the lives of more than 75 others."

Why it matters: county recognition highlights partnerships that support organ donation and public-health outreach. The board encouraged conversations between residents and families about donor registration.

Ending: County officials posed for a photo with Sharing Network representatives and moved on to other agenda presentations.