MORRIS COUNTY, NJ – The Morris County Department of Human Services is continuing to provide essential programs and services required by the county’s most in-need residents during this difficult period as we all face the coronavirus outbreak.
However, in response to the Covid-19 virus, which requires a public health need for social distancing, including limiting public access to government buildings, the county agency has had to make some major adjustments in how those programs and services are offered.
“We understand the importance of continuing these vital county services, especially for our most vulnerable residents who depend on these meals and rides, who count on these programs to support their families and loved ones,’’ Freeholder Director Deborah Smith said. “But we need to do this in ways that comply with the mandates of the current public health situation, to protect our county employees and the people who need their help.’’
Here are some very important facts for county Human Services clients:
Office of Temporary Assistance (OTA):
- OTA Dover office is closed to visitors.
- OTA main office on West Hanover Avenue in Morris Township is open but public access is limited. Staff members will be stationed at the front door to answer any questions.
- All applications will be taken by phone, mail or online. A drop box will be placed at the OTA main building for completed applications and mail.
- Information regarding applications, recertification and more can be found at hs.morriscountynj.gov/ota/
- Main Office Phone: 973-326-7800
- Dover Office Phone:973-682-4990
Senior Home Delivered Meals: senior citizens who participate in the county’s home delivered program will continue to receive meals, which will be delivered with additional supplies provided.
Senior Congregate Meals: The county’s congregate meal program has been converted totally to home delivered or takeout meals. Seniors currently involved in our various meals programs across the county are being checked on via telephone by our staff and county partner, Newbridge Services.
Senior Services Questions: The county’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection line remains open to caregivers and seniors with questions regarding senior services. Information can be accessed at 1-800-564-4656 or online at hs.morriscountynj.gov/adv/aging/
Morris Area Paratransit System: MAPS continues to operate by providing rides to persons with ongoing life sustaining needs, medical appointments, and employment. We encourage persons with active symptoms of coughing, fever, or shortness of breath not to utilize these vehicles, as we want to continue to provide support to those with ongoing needs. For more information visit hs.morriscountynj.gov/adv/maps/
Navigating Hope: Although Navigating Hope has currently suspended trips, residents can reach out with questions via email to navigatinghope@co.morris.nj.us or call 973-829-8220. Check out the Navigating Hope webpage for updates: hs.morriscountynj.gov/navigatinghope/
Veterans Affairs Medical Clinic: The Morris View location will be closed effective March 23. The VA will be conducting video-to-home and telephone visits. Any face to face emergencies will be handled at other VA medical clinic sites as follows: newjersey.va.gov/locations/other_facilities.asp
Morris County Veterans Services Office: The Morris View location is closed. However, services to veterans will continue telephonically. Veterans needing assistance should call 973-285-6866.
One Stop Employment Centers: Both the One Stop Center at 1 Medical Drive in Parsippany and the One Stop Center in Randolph, at 13 Emery Avenue, are closed to visitors. They are taking unemployment claims via telephone and online at 862-397-5600 or visit careerconnections.nj.gov/careerconnections/plan/support/njccsites/morris_randolph_oscc.shtml
Mental Health Issues: The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization, released a guide to answer frequently asked questions regarding the intersection between Coronavirus, or COVID-19, and people affected by mental illness, their caregivers and loved ones. Read the guide! Also, visit the Morris County Stigma-Free Initiative website: morriscountystigmafree.org/
Please be sure to get the most up-to-date and accurate information on county services at MorrisCountyNJ.gov, and for COVID-19 health issues visit the CDC website.
