Community & Programs

Bob Marley and Beres Hammond beneath a golden spotlight, with a Jamaican flag backdrop

Rooted in Jamaica · United in New York

Our Community.
Our Commitment.

Rooted in Jamaica. United in New York.
Committed to one another.

JAMROC is more than an association. We are a community built on shared heritage, service, unity, and the responsibility to uplift those around us. Through cultural celebration, mentorship, outreach, and meaningful connections, we honor where we come from while strengthening the communities we serve.

Whole Person Wellness

Health & Wellness

Corrections work is among the most demanding professions in the world — physically, mentally, and emotionally. JAMROC is committed to the total wellness of every member. We believe that taking care of yourself is not a sign of weakness — it is a sign of strength.

As NYC Department of Correction officers, our members have access to a range of health benefits many people are not fully aware of. JAMROC is here to make sure you know what you’re entitled to and how to use it.

In crisis? Call or text 988
Explore benefits & wellness resources

Know Your Benefits

What your plans cover and who to call

Medical Coverage

NYCE PPO

EmblemHealth & UnitedHealthcare

The NYC Employees PPO Plan is your primary medical health plan effective January 1, 2026. It is premium-free for all active city employees and covers doctors, hospitals, specialists, outpatient facilities, and mental health services with no referral required. You have access to providers nationwide through UnitedHealthcare’s Choice Plus network.

The plan includes a comprehensive CARE Programs suite featuring Complex & Emerging Condition CARE, Maternity CARE, online health reminders, and the A1chieve Diabetes Program — providing members with certified diabetes specialists, registered dietitians, and registered nurses at no additional cost.

Mental health coverage is significantly expanded with 39,000 behavioral health providers in New York State and fully covered virtual therapy through Talkspace and Charlie Health — accessible by text, video, or chat with no travel required.

$0copay for annual physicals, routine immunizations, and in-network preventive screenings
Premium-freefor all active city employees
39,000behavioral health providers in New York State
No referralrequired for specialists and mental health services
$400Back per year

💰 Husk Rewards

Get Up To $400 Back Per Year For Working Out

Through the Husk Rewards Fitness Reimbursement Program you can earn real cash back for staying active — deposited directly into your bank account.

Complete 50 workouts in a 6-month period (Jan–Jun or Jul–Dec) and get reimbursed up to $200 per period — up to $400 per year for yourself. Covered spouses and domestic partners can earn an additional $100 per 6-month period. Any approved gym, fitness center, digital app, or group exercise class qualifies.

01
Complete Workouts
Log 50 workouts at any approved gym, fitness app, or group exercise class within the 6-month window.
02
Gather Documentation
Collect proof of gym visits, class attendance, or digital subscription records along with payment receipts.
03
Submit & Get Paid
Log into the EmblemHealth Husk Rewards portal, click “Fitness Center Membership Fees,” upload your docs, and enter your bank info for direct deposit.

Note: Claims must be submitted within 90 days of the end of the plan term. Unused cash does not roll over to the next year.

You May Be Covered

Injectable Medications

Many members are unaware that certain injectable medications may be covered under their pharmacy benefit plan. This can include weight management medications, diabetes treatments, and other specialty injectables. Do not assume you have to pay out of pocket before verifying with your plan.

Contact Prime Therapeutics at 833-998-5351 or Express Scripts directly to confirm what injectable medications are covered under your specific plan before filling any prescription.

Discounts Available

Massages & Alternative Therapy

Standard massage therapy is not covered under NYCE PPO. However through EmblemHealth’s Healthy Discounts Program, members can access 20–25% off massages, acupuncture, and nutrition counseling when using providers in their discount network.

Exception: If massage is deemed medically necessary as part of a physical therapy or chiropractic treatment plan prescribed by a licensed medical professional, it may qualify for insurance coverage. Speak with your doctor about proper billing.

Dental · Vision · Prescription · Welfare Fund Benefits

COBA — Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association

COBA is your union and provides welfare fund benefits beyond your city health plan. Through COBA members have access to dental coverage, vision benefits including frames and contacts, and prescription drug coverage. Many members don’t realize the full scope of what COBA provides — contact them directly to understand everything available to you.

Pharmacy Benefits · NYCE PPO Plan

Prime Therapeutics

Effective January 1, 2026, Prime Therapeutics replaced Express Scripts as the pharmacy benefit manager for NYCE PPO. Mail order prescriptions previously through Express Scripts are now fulfilled through Amazon Pharmacy — no Amazon account or Prime membership required.

Prescription Coverage · Union Welfare Fund & PICA

Express Scripts

Express Scripts remains active for members whose prescription coverage comes through the COBA welfare fund. Members with PICA specialty drug coverage also continue using Express Scripts. Verify your specific plan to confirm which pharmacy benefit manager applies to you.

Wellness Resources

Mind, body, and community

Mental Health

Resources and support for stress, trauma, PTSD, and the psychological demands of corrections work. You are not alone.

988 Crisis Lifeline →
Physical Wellness

Fitness, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle resources tailored for shift workers and law enforcement professionals.

Healthcare Professionals

JAMROC welcomes nurses, doctors, social workers, and mental health counselors. Your expertise strengthens us all.

Join JAMROC →
Community Health Events

Blood drives, health screenings, wellness fairs, and community outreach events organized by and for JAMROC members.

View Events →
The information above is provided for general awareness only. Benefit coverage varies by individual plan, union membership, and eligibility status. JAMROC strongly encourages all members to verify their specific coverage directly with their plan administrator, union representative, or HR benefits office. Benefits and plan details are subject to change.
988

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available 24/7. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988.

Out of Many, One People

Become a Member

Our Heritage

Cultural Excellence

Jamaica has given the world some of its most powerful voices — artists, musicians, and leaders whose work transcended borders and touched the lives of millions. JAMROC honors these icons as part of our cultural identity and the spirit that drives everything we do.

1945 – 1981
Singer · Songwriter · Activist

Bob Marley

Robert Nesta Marley was born in Nine Mile, Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica. He became one of the most influential musicians in history, bringing reggae music and Rastafari ideology to a worldwide audience through songs that spoke of love, justice, and resistance against oppression.

His music was not entertainment — it was a movement. Albums like Exodus, Rastaman Vibration, and Legend cemented his status as a global icon whose message of unity and resilience resonates as powerfully today as it did during his lifetime.

For Jamaican-Americans in public service, Bob Marley’s legacy is a reminder that where you come from is your strength — and that your voice, your work, and your purpose can change the world.

1955 – Present
Singer · Songwriter

Beres Hammond

Berisford Livingston Hammond, known as Beres Hammond, was born in Annotto Bay, Jamaica. Widely regarded as one of the greatest voices in reggae and lovers rock history, his music has been the soundtrack to generations of Jamaican life both on the island and in the diaspora.

Known for his rich, warm baritone and deeply emotional delivery, Beres Hammond has produced timeless songs that speak to love, struggle, perseverance, and the Jamaican experience. His longevity and consistency in the music industry over five decades is itself a testament to resilience.

For Jamaican-Americans navigating life in New York City, his music has always felt like home — a connection to the island that never fades no matter how far you travel.

Out of Many, One People

Become a Member

Our Heritage

Jamaica Independence

On August 6, 1962, Jamaica gained independence from British rule, becoming a sovereign nation and a symbol of resilience, pride, and self-determination for people of African descent around the world.

That spirit of independence — of standing up, pushing forward, and building something lasting — is the same spirit that drives every Jamaican-American professional in the NYC Department of Correction. It is the foundation upon which JAMROC was built.

1962Year of Jamaican Independence · August 6

Milestones

From 1962 to JAMROC

1962

Jamaica gains independence from Britain on August 6, becoming a free and sovereign nation.

1962

The Jamaican flag is unveiled — black, gold, and green — representing the strength, natural wealth, and hope of the Jamaican people.

1960s+

Waves of Jamaican immigrants arrive in New York City, building communities across Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens.

2026

JAMROC is founded — carrying that same spirit of resilience and independence into the NYC Department of Correction.

Out of Many, One People. — National Motto of Jamaica

Every August, JAMROC honors Jamaican Independence Day with events, recognition, and celebration of our heritage. Because where we come from shapes who we are — and we carry Jamaica with us everywhere we go. 🇯🇲

Member Recognition

Member Spotlight

Every month JAMROC shines a light on one of our own — honoring the dedication, service, and achievements of our members. These are the people who represent everything JAMROC stands for.

Coming Soon

Our First Spotlight

Our first Member Spotlight will be featured here soon. 🇯🇲

Out of Many, One People

Become a Member
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