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Union County’s Social Services Division Employee Wins 2023 CWA Worker of the Year Award

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services would like to extend warm congratulations to Union County employee Ms. Shioban Dominguez for being selected by the NJ Child Support Council with the 2023 County Welfare Agency (CWA) Worker of the Year Award. Ms. Dominguez was presented the award on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the Annual NJ CS Conference Luncheon, in the presence of colleagues, family, and friends.

“The Union County Commissioners and I extend our congratulations to Ms. Shioban Dominguez for her extraordinary work that has proven invaluable to the Union County community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Her efforts and assistance to the Human Services Department in collaborating with clients, co-workers, and our residents have greatly enhanced the department’s quality, and her inspiring work ethic promises a continued positive impact in the future.”

Shioban Dominguez has been an invaluable asset to the Child Support and Paternity (CSP) Unit at Union County since she joined in 2011. She was specifically selected to work in the CSP Unit’s UIFSA-IVD Intergovernmental Unit due to her exceptional skills and qualities, which made her the perfect candidate for the role. Shioban has consistently demonstrated excellent performance throughout her tenure, showcasing her ability to learn and adapt to process changes and work responsibilities. Notably, she has gone above and beyond in her duties, providing exceptional guidance to clients during intricate processes and taking on additional responsibilities during busy or short-staffed periods. Her team members and supervisors have described her as a team player, motivated and caring, and a person who consistently brings insightful suggestions in an effort to improve the department and better assist the families of Union County.

“Ms. Dominguez’s well-deserved recognition as the NJ Child Support Council’s 2023 County Welfare Agency Worker of the Year reflects her dedication and exceptional contributions to our Union County community,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Her commitment, adaptability, and genuine care for our residents make her a true asset to our Social Services team and the Union County Board of County Commissioners congratulates her and takes great pride in her achievements.”

Union County’s Social Services Division recognizes the importance of providing the necessary financial and emotional support to custodial parents through the Child Support and Paternity Unit. Their efforts are geared towards promoting the productivity and well-being of children and families, thereby contributing to the overall development of our society.

The Social Services Division is a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. The Department employs over 700 people and serves more than half of the country’s population.

To learn more about the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

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2024 Union County Senior Art Exhibit is Open for Entries

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that registration has opened for the 2024 Union County Senior Art Exhibit, to be held from April 19 to May 30, 2024. Coordinated by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, the Senior Art Exhibit will be held at the Scotch Plains campus of UCNJ Union College of Union County NJ, at 1776 Raritan Road, Scotch Plains. A closing reception will be held on May 30 for all exhibiting artists. Residents of Union County, age 60 and up, both professional and non-professional artists, are invited and encouraged to enter an artwork.

“We are delighted to open registration for the 2024 Union County Senior Art Exhibit,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This exhibit not only highlights the artistic achievements of our seniors, but also provides a platform for them to share their unique perspectives and stories through art. Whether you’re an experienced artist or discovering your talent later in life, the Senior Art Exhibit is for you.” 

The media categories are: acrylic painting, oil painting, watercolor, pastel, works on paper (drawing), photography, digital art (excluding digital photography), mixed media, printmaking, sculpture, and craft. Entry must be an original work completed between April 2021 and April 2024. The deadline to register is April 14. Registration online is required. Find complete instructions, rules, and registration form at https://ucnj.org/art-shows/2024-senior-art-show/. For seniors who do not have internet access, a relative or friend with an email address may register on behalf of the artist; or the Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs will assist artists with registration by phone.

Artworks entered will be judged by a panel of professional artists who will designate separate awards for professional artists and non-professionals. First-place 2D artworks will be exhibited at the Commissioners Gallery during the summer. All first-place artworks will go on to compete at the state level in the New Jersey Senior Citizens Art Show in the fall.

“Art is a vital aspect of senior life,” said Commissioner Vice Chairwoman Lourdes M. Leon, liaison for the Advisory Council on Aging. “It fosters creativity and self-expression, inspiring the lives of our seniors. Through initiatives like the Union County Senior Art Exhibit, we honor their talents, stories, and contributions to our community.”

For assistance or questions about the Senior Arts Exhibit, or to receive instructions by mail or email, email msturm@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2552 (weekdays). Relay users dial 711. This program is made possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. To learn more about the programs and services offered by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, visit https://ucnj.org/parks-recreation/cultural-heritage-affairs/.

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Union County’s Social Services Division Employee Wins 2023 CWA Worker of the Year Award

The Union County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services would like to extend warm congratulations to Union County employee Ms. Shioban Dominguez for being selected by the NJ Child Support Council with the 2023 County Welfare Agency (CWA) Worker of the Year Award. Ms. Dominguez was presented the award on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the Annual NJ CS Conference Luncheon, in the presence of colleagues, family, and friends.

“The Union County Commissioners and I extend our congratulations to Ms. Shioban Dominguez for her extraordinary work that has proven invaluable to the Union County community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Her efforts and assistance to the Human Services Department in collaborating with clients, co-workers, and our residents have greatly enhanced the department’s quality, and her inspiring work ethic promises a continued positive impact in the future.”

Shioban Dominguez has been an invaluable asset to the Child Support and Paternity (CSP) Unit at Union County since she joined in 2011. She was specifically selected to work in the CSP Unit’s UIFSA-IVD Intergovernmental Unit due to her exceptional skills and qualities, which made her the perfect candidate for the role. Shioban has consistently demonstrated excellent performance throughout her tenure, showcasing her ability to learn and adapt to process changes and work responsibilities. Notably, she has gone above and beyond in her duties, providing exceptional guidance to clients during intricate processes and taking on additional responsibilities during busy or short-staffed periods. Her team members and supervisors have described her as a team player, motivated and caring, and a person who consistently brings insightful suggestions in an effort to improve the department and better assist the families of Union County.

“Ms. Dominguez’s well-deserved recognition as the NJ Child Support Council’s 2023 County Welfare Agency Worker of the Year reflects her dedication and exceptional contributions to our Union County community,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Her commitment, adaptability, and genuine care for our residents make her a true asset to our Social Services team and the Union County Board of County Commissioners congratulates her and takes great pride in her achievements.”

Union County’s Social Services Division recognizes the importance of providing the necessary financial and emotional support to custodial parents through the Child Support and Paternity Unit. Their efforts are geared towards promoting the productivity and well-being of children and families, thereby contributing to the overall development of our society.

The Social Services Division is a branch of the Union County Department of Human Services. The Department employs over 700 people and serves more than half of the country’s population.

To learn more about the Department of Human Services, visit ucnj.org/dhs.

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Union County’s Popular “Weekend of Shredding” Returns in 2024 to Kick Off Recycling Season

The Union County Board of County Commissioners would like announce that Union County’s “Weekend of Shredding” will kick off the 2024 shredding season on Saturday, March 23rd and Sunday, March 24th.  

“We are thrilled to bring back Union County’s ‘Weekend of Shredding’ for 2024, providing a valuable service for residents to securely dispose of sensitive documents,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This initiative not only aids in decluttering homes but contributes to our collective efforts in making Union County a cleaner and more environmentally conscious place to live. I hope everyone will join us and continue to work together for a greener future.”

The two events will take place on the campus of the Union County Vocational Technical School, which is located at 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains. Both events will take place in the West Hall (Police Academy) lot.  There will be ample signage at both events to direct residents to the shredding site.

Each shredding event begins at 9:00 a.m. and will conclude promptly at 1:00 p.m., rain or shine, but may finish earlier if the shredding trucks fill up to capacity.

Participants are reminded pre-shredded, damp, or wet paper will not be accepted. Bindings, large plastic or metal clips, and other paraphernalia should be removed prior to arrival at the shredding site.

These events are drive-up only and contact-free. Residents must remain in their cars while staff unloads their papers, which are shredded on site in a mobile shredding truck.

Union County’s free shedding events are intended for personal, sensitive documents only. Residents can recycle magazines, junk mail and other waste paper with their municipal recycling program. For information, contact the https://ucnj.org/recycling/municipal-recycling-coordinators/.  The shredding events are for residentially generated paper only.  Businesses and business documents will not be accepted for shredding at the events.  If there is a business that needs guidance on how to shred documents, they can contact the Union County Bureau of Recycling and Planning via the online form at  ucnj.org/recycle.

For the complete 2024 paper shredding schedule and information on all recycling programs hosted by Union County, visit ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889. For the latest news and updates on all municipal and countywide recycling programs in Union County, download the free Recycle Coach app. More information is available at ucnj.org/recycling/recycle-coach-app.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at ucnj.org/green-connection. The mobile paper shredding program is paid for through Recycling Enhancement Act Grant funds, which are applied for by Union County and received from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

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Building Bridges: Union County Collaborates With Nonprofit Organizations to Strengthen Human Services Networks

On Monday, Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, along with Commissioners Alexander Mirabella, Sergio Granados, and Joseph Bodek, gathered for a constructive roundtable discussion alongside Deputy County Manager, Amy Wagner. The meeting focused on fostering collaboration with community nonprofit organizations, which was led by Union County Department of Human Services Director, Debbie-Ann Anderson, and her dedicated team.

“Building bridges between government officials and nonprofit organizations is crucial for the holistic development of our community,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This partnership allows us to pool our expertise and resources to better serve the residents of Union County.”

The Union County Department of Human Services provides a wide range of support programs and social services, with its mission to empower all Union County individuals, families and communities to achieve their highest level of self-sufficiency and quality of life using an accessible, inclusive and comprehensive approach to service delivery and care.

The roundtable’s primary objective was to highlight the critical integration, impact, and interconnectedness within the human services delivery system throughout the county. Participants emphasized the importance of community partnerships in delivering essential services to positively impact Union County residents.

The collaboration demonstrates a commitment by Union County and local nonprofits to work together in addressing the diverse needs of the community. Through open dialogue, the leaders intend to streamline efforts, share resources, and enhance the overall effectiveness of human services programs.

“Through these discussions, the Union County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services are actively working towards creating a more cohesive and impactful approach,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “Our shared commitment to guiding principles, and streamlining of services exemplifies a collective effort to enhance the well-being of our community.”

With a human-centered approach these discussions focused on basic needs for residents with shared resources.  Collaborations develop into building blocks that will streamline services moving individuals and families to self-sufficiency.                                                      

Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the upcoming events and resources available through the Union County Department of Human Services by visiting the official website at www.ucnj.org/dhs. Additionally, individuals seeking information or assistance can contact the Action Line at 908-677-5405.

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Union County Conducted Annual Point-in-time Count of the Homeless Population

On Wednesday, January 24, 2024, The Union County Board of County Commissioners through our Department of Human Services kicked off our annual Point-In-Time (PIT) Count and Survey of the Homeless population throughout the cities in our jurisdiction.

The PIT, also known as NJCounts, takes place every January and asks for a count of unsheltered and sheltered individuals experiencing homelessness. This program ran through Wednesday, January 31st, is mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and for the tenth year, Monarch Housing Associates coordinated the statewide effort, along with Continuums of Care (CoC).  The County of Union has been the lead Collaborative for the CoC since 1998.

“The annual Point-in-Time Count is not just a census; it is a compass guiding our commitment to understanding and addressing homelessness,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “By capturing a snapshot of homelessness on a specific night each year, we illuminate the urgent needs of our community, fostering compassion, awareness, and targeted intervention. It is a vital annual occurrence, which helps us navigate the complex terrain of homelessness, ensuring that no one is left unseen or unheard in our pursuit of a compassionate and inclusive Union County, where everyone gets the help they deserve.”

A total of seven (7) teams comprised of Union County staff, government officials and local nonprofit organizations banded together in smaller groups of 4-6 people during a seven (7) day period in the afternoon and late evening hours. Smaller groups surveyed people throughout the County who “sleep outdoors, in parks, alleys, under bridges, or places not meant for human habitation, such as cars, abandoned buildings, garages, or other structures without electricity or water.”

The County’s 2024 unsheltered count kicked-off at 3:00 a.m. on January 24th with thirty-five (35) volunteers gathering at the Union County Division of Social Services in Elizabeth and Plainfield.  The teams surveyed the areas of Elizabeth, Plainfield, Summit, Roselle, Roselle Park, Garwood, Linden, Rahway, Hillside and Union.  The four (4) groups that went identified nine (9) unsheltered homeless persons that were further assessed for services at the Union County DHS/Division of Social Services office, including overnight placement through the County’s Code Blue Initiative. 

Total number of homeless persons engaged between the large street outreach event on January 24th & the seven (7) day street outreach events:

  • 30 in Elizabeth
  • 2 in Linden
  • 2 in Roselle
  • 19 in Plainfield
  • 13 in Summit

A grand total of 66 homeless individuals were engaged through our street outreach efforts.

“Through the collective efforts of our dedicated teams, volunteers set out on a seven-day task to survey the homeless population, shedding light on the challenges faced by those who sleep outdoors,” Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “This collaborative initiative is a testament to our strong commitment to providing immediate support, resources, and compassion to every individual facing homelessness in Union County. Together, we work for a community where the most vulnerable are not just counted but cared for, ensuring that the path to a brighter future is accessible for all.”

The street outreach teams also provided materials for the homeless, including coats, toiletries, scarves, hats, gloves, sandwiches (provided by Be the Change from Kean University), warm chili, and hot chocolate/coffee. Unfortunately, there was an incident involving a homeless male at the County’s Division of Social Services office in Elizabeth. The individual consumed heroin, leading to an overdose. Swift action was taken by a team member from the County’s Division of Social Services and the County Police. Officer Richard Rijos promptly administered two doses of Narcan, successfully reviving the gentleman and restoring normal breathing. The rapid response by the County’s Division of Social Services and County Police averted what could have been a tragic outcome. Following the prompt intervention, the individual, was then breathing on his own, was transported to Trinitas Regional Medical Center.

On Wednesday, January 24th, service fairs were held by the City of Plainfield, Plainfield Action Services at the Plainfield Performing Arts Center and the Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless at the Mickey Walker Center in Elizabeth. Plainfield’s service fair had a total forty-eight (48) persons in attendance and Elizabeth’s service fair had a total of one-hundred and forty-six (146) persons in attendance. Both service fairs offered resources from over sixteen (16) social service providers. Medical screenings were also provided at each location, where fifteen (15) individuals received a Covid-19 vaccine, twelve (12) persons received an eye exam, twelve (12) 12 persons received a hearing test, five (5) persons received the Flu vaccine and four (4) persons received information and resources about cancer screening and/or prevention.

During the seven (7) street outreach, which took place from January 24 through January 31, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily, a total of seven (7) groups, representing a total of nineteen (19) volunteers went out to survey the homeless throughout Union County in: Elizabeth, Plainfield, Summit, Roselle, Roselle Park, Garwood, Linden, Rahway, Hillside and Union. The seven (7) groups that went identified fifty-seven (57) homeless persons.

In an effort to house homeless individuals before the Annual Street Outreach events, a Code Blue was called for the night of January 23, 2024.  Through the County’s Code Blue Initiative program, almost 300 homeless persons were housed.

The data collected during NJCounts will help determine how much McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance HUD funding Union County will receive and provides crucial resources for the homeless and housing insecure throughout Union County.

For information on the Department of Human Services, please visit ucnj.org/dhs or call the Action Line, 908-677-5405.

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Union County Partners With United Way to Launch Free Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program

The Union County Board of County Commissioners, in collaboration with the Department of Human Services proudly announces that they are partnering with United Way of Greater Union County, to offer free income tax assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.

“Union County is proud to join hands with United Way in launching the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded.  “In collaboration, we aim to provide crucial financial support to our residents, ensuring that tax assistance is accessible to all, regardless of income. This program reflects our commitment to economic inclusivity and community well-being.”

Union County and its partners recognize the importance of supporting its residents during tax season, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to essential tax services. The VITA program, which is funded through Union County, but operated by United Way of Greater Union County, will be staffed by trained volunteers who will assist eligible residents with the preparation of their federal and state income tax returns.

“We have been working to bring this program to fruition over the last few months, and this launch reinforces our dedication to addressing the diverse needs of our community,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Council. “This initiative not only provides essential tax assistance but also exemplifies our commitment to supporting the financial health of all residents. I encourage eligible individuals and families to take advantage of this invaluable service, made possible through our collaborative efforts.”

The VITA program offers cost-free tax assistance to individuals and families with a household income of less than $60,000.  Residents are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance to secure their spot for personalized assistance.

“The United Way of Greater Union County is thankful for the strong partnership with the County of Union that enables us to help our neighbors in need gain access to free tax assistance,” said Julienne Cherry, President & CEO. “After tax services are completed, our UWGUC team provides additional resources through our Family Success Center to ensure our families in Union County thrive.”

For more information or to make an appointment, please call 908-353- 7171 or 201-201-4522 or email VITA@Unitedwayguc.org.

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Property Fraud Alert Program Continues to Be a Vital Resource for Union County Homeowners

Union County Clerk Joanne Rajoppi is pleased to announce the continuation of the Property Fraud Alert program, a free subscription service designed to safeguard Union County homeowners against property fraud. Property fraud is committed when someone illegally uses your property for monetary gain, often by recording a fraudulent document in the Union County land records office to appear as if they own your home or property. It can also occur when someone illegally records a lien against your home or property.

“If someone files a property document with a similar or same name as yours, you will get an alert either by phone or email,” Ms. Rajoppi said. “Then you can go to the Clerk’s property website at https://ucnj.org/county-clerk/ to check to see if the document refers to your property address. If it does, the homeowner should go to their local Police Department and file a police report. They can then take the report to the Office of the Union County Prosecutor who will investigate. Unfortunately, property fraud is one of the largest growing crimes in America today,” she added.  “I’m hopeful this program will give homeowners some peace of mind.”

Since its inception nine years ago, Property Fraud Alert has been widely adopted by Union County homeowners, with thousands of subscribers benefitting from its protection. Homeowners and their family members can sign up for free by visiting www.propertyfraudalert.com/ or by calling the hotline at 800-728-3858. Subscribers can choose how they would like to be notified whenever a document with their name is recorded in the participating County Land Records office – either by email, text message, or voice phone call. This service is available for residential property owners as well as business owners and properties owned as part of trusts.

Although Property Fraud Alert cannot prevent fraud, it serves as an early warning system, allowing property owners to take necessary actions if they suspect fraudulent activity. For more information, please visit www.propertyfraudalert.com/ or call 800-728-3858.

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Union County Celebrates Women’s History Month: Advocating for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners, through the Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs is pleased to announce a live speaking event titled “One Woman’s Journey as an Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” featuring McCarter & English attorney Simone Wilson-Brito as our guest speaker. Residents are welcome to attend this free event and learn about Ms. Wilson-Brito’s insightful experiences as a lawyer and champion of social justice on Wednesday, March 20th, at 12:30 p.m. at the UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ, Cranford Campus, Victor M. Richel Student Commons, located at 1033 Springfield Avenue in Cranford.

“As a proud, devoted working mother, and a strong advocate for women, this year, as part of my 2024 Chairwoman’s initiatives of “Growing Together in Union County,” I am working to provide women with the necessary resources and opportunities for their thriving success,” said Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “This year, we are happy to feature Ms. Simone Wilson-Brito as our guest speaker for Women’s History Month. Ms. Wilson-Brito is an exemplary figure and a fitting choice to illuminate this month. Her strong leadership, commitment to dismantling the barriers of racism and injustice, and aspiration to forge a more inclusive future for our community make her an outstanding individual. She serves as an excellent role model for young girls and women, and we encourage everyone to attend this inspirational free event.”

The theme for National Women’s History Month 2024 is “Women Who Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.” This theme recognizes women throughout the country who understand the need to eliminate bias and discrimination from our personal lives and institutions to have a more positive future.

Simone Wilson-Brito is the Co-chair of McCarter & English’s Real Estate Practice Group.  She is also Co-Chair of the firm’s Women’s Initiative Steering Committee, tasked with advancing women at the firm, and the Social Justice Project, tasked with advancing the firm’s initiatives to dismantle structural racism and combat the impact of racial injustice in our communities. Her work on the Women’s Initiative Steering Committee has led to McCarter receiving Gold Standard Certification from the Women in Law Empowerment Forum. She is listed as one of New Jersey’s most influential Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) leaders in the year 2021, and is currently listed as one of the Best Lawyers in America of 2024.

She is an active volunteer and also serves as a Member of the Board of Trustees for the YMCA of Newark and Vicinity. Her passion for volunteering and pro-bono work has grown alongside her career as a lawyer and an advocate for women. Notably, she was part of a team of lawyers who helped 14 families affected by Superstorm Sandy in 2012, by assisting them in acquiring new homes after being displaced. She represents clients seeking asylum in the United States from their home country out of fear of persecution or harm and works with the Pennsylvania Innocence Project and the New Jersey Innocence Project through Rutgers University assessing innocence claims.

“Women’s History Month is a special time to celebrate and highlight the countless contributions of women who have helped shape our society. It is also an opportunity to recognize those who are currently working hard to create a better future for all,” said Commissioner Bette Jane Kowalski, Liaison to the Cultural and Heritage Affairs Advisory Board. “Ms. Wilson-Brito’s dedication to promoting women, minorities, and the disadvantaged is a source of inspiration to us all. We would like to invite you to join us in commemorating National Women’s Month this March by attending our event.”

Women’s History Month is an annual celebration of the achievements and contributions of women throughout history and in their communities. It is celebrated nationwide every March. The speaking presentation is free of charge to all Union County residents. To register for the event, please visit UCNJ.ORG/WHM

This program is partly funded by a grant from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a Division of Cultural Affairs in the Department of State.

For more information about this presentation and other activities and programs of the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, visit ucnj.org/cultural, email culturalinfo@ucnj.org, or call 908-558-2550.

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Union County Invites Seniors and Caregivers to Explore ‘ASK’ Services Kiosk for Expert Guidance and Resources in March

The Union County Board of County Commissioners cordially invites seniors and their caregivers to visit their local “ASK” services kiosk this March. These services provide an opportunity for attendees to meet experienced professionals who offer expert guidance on senior programs and resources, as well as assistance with form completion. Moreover, bilingual staff will be present at several events to offer support in Spanish.

“The ASK services kiosk plays a strong, supportive role in our mission to provide our senior community with the most accurate and reliable information and resources that they can count on,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman, Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “We urge you to take advantage of this program and visit the Aging Services Kiosk nearest you.”

ASK, short for Aging Services Kiosk, is a program within the Union County Department of Human Services, specifically operated by the Division on Aging. It offers older adults aged 60 and older, along with their caregivers, a friendly and convenient avenue to discover valuable programs and services and speak individually with a Division on Aging professional.

Staff at the ASK kiosks can help older adults and caregivers connect with various services including home-delivered meals, respite care, home care, adult day care, and support services for caregivers. Any Union County senior or caregiver can visit any ASK kiosk, regardless of their hometown.  No appointment or pre-registration is needed. Below are the upcoming ASK events in March:

Tuesday, March 12th

Cranford Public Library

224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Wednesday, March 27th

(Bilingual staff is available)

Elizabeth Main Public Library

11 South Broad Street, Elizabeth

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

“It makes us incredibly proud to know the ASK program is approaching its 8th year of providing a wealth of information and services to our beloved senior community,” said Vice-Chairwoman Lourdes Leon, Liaison to the Advisory Council on Aging. “Visit your local library to learn more about this convenient and friendly service.”

For more information about the ASK events and any other services for seniors in Union County, contact the Division on Aging and Disability Resource Connection at 1-888-280-8226 toll-free or visit online at ucnj.org/dhs/aging.