A community rally will be held in Jersey City to try to keep the lights on and services running at a hospital that serves the city’s northernmost neighborhood.
On Wednesday, October 8, a rally will be held outside Heights University Hospital at 176 Palisade Avenue to drum up support to keep the facility fully open. Among those speaking at the rally will be New Jersey State Senator Raj Mukherji and Assemblyman John Allen.
They, along with Senator Brian Stack and Senator Angela V. McKnight, recently introduced the proposal for a $25 million appropriation to stabilize Heights University Hospital. The medical complex, taken over by Hudson Regional Health last year, has operated at a $60 million loss so far this year.
“We are heartened by the outpouring of support for Heights University Hospital,” said Dr. Nizar Kifaieh, President & CEO of Hudson Regional Health. “This rally underscores how deeply this hospital matters to the community, our patients, and our employees. Together with our legislators, we are working to keep Heights open and strong.”
Heights University Hospital, formerly known as Christ Hospital, has operated in the community for decades. Since taking ownership last year, Hudson Regional Health has invested nearly $300 million across its network, including major upgrades in technology, new clinical equipment, facility improvements, and expanded service lines.
Despite these efforts, Heights has experienced significant financial challenges. The proposed $25 million appropriation legislation aims to be part of a broader effort to ensure Heights University Hospital can continue serving patients, supporting its dedicated employees, and sustaining healthcare access for the community.
Without this funding, the hospital says they face the real possibility of closure. The rally on Wednesday is open to the public and is expected to last for several hours.
