North Bergen Health Officer Janet Castro, the first person of Hispanic descent to hold that title, discussed her experiences in the health department – as well as some of the community outreach initiatives in the works right now.
[fve]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpYsmuSdK2A&feature=youtu.be[/fve]
Castro, who has a master’s degree in public health, worked for the township for 11 years before being formally named health officer in January.
During an interview with Hudson County View, she explained how she made the transition from working for the state Division of Youth and Family Services (DYFS) to the North Bergen Health Department.
Castro added that while she enjoyed being a social worker, the job took a hefty “emotional toll†and said being the North Bergen health officer is “definitely more gratifying.â€
Additionally, when asked what she thought about being the first Hispanic health officer in North Bergen history, Castro gave a succinct answer – thanking Mayor Nick Sacco for giving her the opportunity.
Earlier in the day, Sacco offered high praise for Castro’s work ethic and abilities. Back at the North Bergen Health Center on 43rd Street, Castro talked about some of the duties and responsibilities of the department.
She concluded by talking about an ongoing initiative the department is working on: a joint operation with the North Hudson Community Action Corporation to provide free adult vaccinations.