Essential Services Still Available In Morris County

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 despite the challenges of novel coronavirus or COVID-19.

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However, in response to the outbreak, 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," said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith. "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 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 on the website.
• 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
this web address.

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 this web address.

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: visit the website.

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:
see the website.

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 the website.

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!

Morris County Stigma-Free Initiative website.

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