The Arc of New Jersey is accepting special donations to assist our local county chapters with the COVID-19 pandemic. Make a cash donation by clicking here. If you have donations of PPE, paper goods, etc., contact Celine Fortin at cfortin@arcnj.org.
The Arc of New Jersey’s Executive Director Tom Baffuto released the following statement regarding the “It’s Hit Our Front Door’: Homes for the Disabled See a Surge of COVID-19” article that appeared in the New York Times on April 8.
“Our hearts go out to the families and caregivers of the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in New York who have lost their lives due to COVID-19. We recognize that we are living in an incredibly unsettling time, but it’s important for people with I/DD and their families to understand the multitude of precautions taking place in New Jersey. All of the day programs across the state were closed by March 17 when the threat of the virus became apparent and Chapters of The Arc implemented shelter in place procedures immediately thereafter. Comprehensive emergency response plans were enacted and our local county Chapters, and their extraordinary Direct Support Professionals, are continuing to assist and support clients while abiding by screening policies, monitoring staff and clients for potential symptoms, and engaging in intense sanitizing of homes. While a portion of those served in the community have tested positive for COVID-19, we are working diligently to care for those who are ill while protecting and shielding others. In this unprecedented time, we are doing our very best for those we serve and represent. The Arc of New Jersey is here to advocate and support anyone in need of help as we push through toward better days ahead.”
To read the article, click here: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/08/nyregion/coronavirus-disabilities-group-homes.html
Web Based Resources
Virtual Events
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Weekly 30-minute chats on Tuesdays at 11:30 am and 7:30 pm
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April 22-28 from 1-1:30 pm. Held once a day via Zoom. These events are free.
Coping During the Coronavirus
Important Updates
Postponed Events
Resources
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Resources to help DSPs take care of themselves during the crisis
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A form for parents/guardians to fill out ahead of time and have ready in case a loved one is hospitalized with COVID 19.
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Due to the current situation with COVID-19, it is important that your Register Ready account remains active.
