Category: Public Info

Residents in need will have access to showers, laundry services and information regarding social service support programs offered throughout Union County.

Union County, NJ – Union County will officially launch the Fresh Start mobile program with the first event to be held on Wednesday, December 1, in Elizabeth from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This new County-based program is the first of its kind in New Jersey and will provide shower, laundry and restroom facilities to persons who are in need, along with guidance and resources on additional services that foster self-sufficiency.

The inaugural event will be hosted by community partner, St. Joseph Social Service Center, located at 118 Division Street in Elizabeth. The event will begin at 11:00 a.m.

“The mobile Fresh Start program brings these essential services to those most in need in the community,” said Commissioner Board Chairman Alexander Mirabella, who announced this initiative late last month. “The Board of County Commissioners is proud to offer this service to our most vulnerable residents.”

“We anticipate that the Fresh Start program will make a significant difference. Fresh Start will enable us to reach out to vulnerable residents, providing them with access to additional resources and services,” said Union County Department of Human Services Director Debbie-Ann Anderson.

“The Fresh Start program brings essential resources to individuals in their communities, making it easier to access a wide array of assistance,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, who is the Commissioner Board’s Liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. “Union County thanks all of our community partners that have connected with us to ensure the success of this critical resource for our community. We also thank Moving New Jersey Forward Foundation for their generous contribution this event.”

The County of Union Department of Human Services has partnered with the Moving New Jersey Forward Foundation (https://bit.ly/3E66KEs) for this inaugural event to provide guests of the Fresh Start program attending on December 1 with essential items such as socks and underwear.

The Fresh Start program is part of Chairman Mirabella’s “Union County Rising” initiatives for 2021, aimed at maximizing countywide resources for response to the COVID-19 pandemic while addressing emerging needs in the areas of fiscal planning, public safety, education, economic development, opportunity, inclusion, and diversity in addition to human services.

The centerpiece of Fresh Start is a mobile trailer equipped with bathroom and shower units as well as laundry facilities. It is operated and maintained in accordance with standards for preventing the spread of COVID-19.

The Fresh Start trailer serves as a portal and contact platform for a continuum of resources leading to self-sufficiency, including emergency shelter and clothing. Access to ongoing resources including but not limited to mental health services, housing, and employment assistance will be available.

The trailer can also provide essential services to Union County residents who are displaced by natural disasters and other emergencies, in addition to providing services to those in financial need.

This kick-off event for the Fresh Start program is a coordination of a wide variety of resources among public and non-profit organizations, such as Union County Department of Human Services, St. Joseph’s Social Service Center, Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless, and PROCEED, Inc.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a time slot.  Guests are welcome to wait or come back later after they register. In addition, those wishing to use the services offered by the Fresh Start mobile program should note:

• Access to the bathroom for use of the shower is limited to a 20-minute duration per guest. It is cleaned after every use. Guests will be informed by a knock on the door when they have 5-minutes remaining.
• Guests will be provided with soap, hot water, and a clean towel.
• Shower and/or laundry capacity is limited so the program is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Laundry services will be provided for additional clothing that guests bring with them. Guests should be sure to empty pockets prior to turning clothing in for laundry services.

The Fresh Start trailer will visit locations throughout Union County based on request. Agencies and organizations that are interested can send a request via email to freshstart@ucnj.org.

Additional details are available through the Union County Department of Human Services at https://ucnj.org/dhs/fresh-start.  For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

The Union County Women of Excellence award program celebrates women’s achievements in work, community life and volunteer activities.

Union County, NJ – Businesses, non-profits, educational institutions and government agencies throughout Union County are invited to honor outstanding women employees, colleagues, creators and volunteers by nominating them for a 2021 Union County Women of Excellence Award.

Nominations must be received by midnight on Wednesday, December 1, 2021 for consideration.

The Women of Excellence Award program accepts nominations from all fields including arts and humanities, business and entrepreneurial, community service, education, government, law, public safety, medicine and health care, and advocacy for children, youth and women.

All women 21 years or older who live, volunteer or work in Union County are eligible to be nominated.

Nominations may be submitted online to the Union County Office on Women by using the form at ucnj.org/women.

Mailed-in nominations are also accepted but must be received by December 1 in order to be considered. Nominations may be submitted by mail to the Office on Women, 3^rd Floor, Union County Administration Building, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth, NJ 07207.

Questions about the nomination process may be addressed to Jennifer Erdos, Union County Office on Women at 908-527-4216 or jerdos@ucnj.org.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

 

The Covid-19 Virtual Town Hall will focus on misinformation and vaccines for children.

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Commissioners invites members of the public to attend a virtual, interactive Town Hall on COVID-19, on Zoom beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 7, aimed at helping the Union County community understand the science behind COVID-19 vaccines, including booster shots and pediatric doses for ages 5-11.

A pre-registration link is available at ucnj.org/covid19/town-hall.

“We are hearing concerns about newly available vaccines for children, as well as guidance on booster shots and third doses for persons with immune deficiencies,” said Commissioner Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “The Virtual Town Hall will provide an opportunity to get reliable answers from experts in the fields of medicine and public health, and we encourage everyone to attend.”

“The Town Hall is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that every Union County resident has access to up-to-date information about preventing infection from this deadly virus. We continue to encourage residents to can get fully vaccinated as soon as possible, and we hope that everyone who still has questions about COVID-19 will attend the Town Hall and get the facts,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, who is Chairman of the Board’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee.

The Town Hall will feature a panel of experts including:

Dr. Margaret Fisher: A specialist in infectious disease and pediatrics, Dr. Fisher is co-chair of the Professional Advisory Committee to the New Jersey Department of Health. She is also Medical Director of Clinical and Academic Excellence at Monmouth Medical Center.

Dr. Cecilia Di Pentima: The director of pediatric infectious disease at Morristown Medical Center and a professor of pediatrics at Thomas Jefferson University, Dr. Di Pentima is Double-board-certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases. She is a specialist in treating children with an array of complex conditions, with more than 20 years of experience working closely with her young patients’ pediatricians, neonatologists, intensive care unit doctors, and other specialists.

Joseph Youngblood II, Ph.D.: Dr. Youngblood serves as Senior Vice President for External Affairs at Kean University and is Chair of the St. Francis Medical Center’s Board of Trustees. St. Francis is an acute care teaching hospital with more than 300 medical staff physicians representing all specialties.

For updates and additional details about the Town Hall visit Union County online at ucnj.org/covid19/town-hall.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Free drive-up concert will observe COVID-19 safety guidelines; registration is open now.

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that registration is now open for “A Soulful Holiday Show” with Terron Brooks and The Company Men. The free concert will be held on Saturday, December 11 at the campus of the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools, 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

The event is free of charge but registration is required online in advance at www.ucnj.org/reserve. Only one registration is needed per car. Please note that a limited number of registrations are available, on a first come, first served basis.

“Holiday concerts are a staple of the season, and the drive-in format enables everyone to enjoy the show in a safe, comfortable environment,” said Union County Commissioner Board Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

The Company Men, who describe themselves as a “Modern Day Rat Pack,” are a nationally acclaimed vocal, pop music quartet forming a mix of current Top 40 hits with classics of the last 60 years, with a special twist. They have appeared onstage with Mariah Carey, Billy Idol, Chaka Khan and others.

Terron Brooks has spanned the worlds of music, theatre, film and television with a voice described as smooth and soulful, having performed with Stevie Wonder, Josh Groban, David Foster, Randy Jackson, Stephanie Mills, Peter Cetera, Lizz Wright, Yolanda Adams, Sheila E., and One Republic among many others.

He is widely recognized for his critically acclaimed role as the great Eddie Kendricks in the Emmy Award-winning NBC mini-series The Temptations, and his numerous recording credits include vocals on Smokey Robinson’s Smokey and Friends album.

Terron has also toured with the legendary Phil Collins and Golden Globe and Tony-nominated star Matthew Morrison, and opened for The New Kids on the Block and Backstreet Boys’ tour. As a guest artist for the Atlanta, Colorado, and Taiwan Symphony Orchestras, he has delighted audiences with classic songs from Disney productions. His numerous Broadway credits include Simba in Disney’s The Lion King and Seaweed in Hairspray.

“A Soulful Holiday Show” will run in compliance with COVID-19 safety guidelines regarding social distancing and other protocols. Attendees must bring their own snacks and drinks. There will not be any food or drink available for purchase.

To help promote social distancing, no walk-ups, bikes or chairs are permitted. Vehicles will be arranged at least 6 feet apart with adequate social distancing.

Port-o-johns will be available. Masks will be required when using the port-o-johns. Attendees must stay in their vehicles (unless they need to use the port-o-johns). Those who are attending can bring their own food, and non-alcoholic drink. Alcohol is prohibited.

Additional details will be available to residents upon reserving tickets.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

COVID-19 Vaccinations as well as Saliva Testing to be offered drive-up at events in Union, and walk-up event in Plainfield

Union County, NJ — The Union County Board of County Commissioners informs residents of the emergency food distribution events for Union County residents in December to aid those affected by COVID-19.

These will include:

Saturday, December 4, 2021

• 8:00 a.m. – KEAN University in Union
• Drive-thru

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Saturday, December 18, 2021

• 8:00 a.m. – KEAN University in Union
• Drive-thru – Holiday Distribution

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Sunday, December 19, 2021

• 11:00 a.m. – Gerald B. Green Plaza in Plainfield
• Walk-Up – Holiday Distribution

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The food distributions are open to all Union County residents. Food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and no registration is required. The events will take place rain or shine.

“Residents continue to look for assistance from the ongoing food distributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and we are proud to provide this valuable resource as well as an opportunity for residents to get vaccinated,” said Commissioner Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

“We are making progress in the fight against COVID-19 and emerging variants but our residents continue to face housing issues, food insecurity and unemployment,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados who also serves as Liaison to the Human Services Advisory Board. “We thank Village Super Market and Gargiulo Produce for their continued partnership in these efforts.”

COVID-19 vaccinations will be available at all listed events on a walk-up basis. Johnson & Johnson and Moderna (for those 18 years or older) and Pfizer (12 years or older) vaccines will be offered. Along with vaccinations, COVID-19 saliva tests will be available as well on a walk-up basis.

Residents wishing to pick up food at the drive-up distribution events at Kean University must arrive in a vehicle. Walk-ups will not be accommodated in Union.

All drive-up recipients must remain in their cars with windows rolled up when possible. Food boxes will be placed in the trunk or truck bed of the vehicle by volunteers.

Masks are required for residents picking up food at the walk-up event in Plainfield. Walk-up recipients should bring a cart or be able to carry several food bags at the walk-up area.

Upon arrival, proof of New Jersey residency and indication of how many people reside in their household will have to be provided. Recipients will receive an emergency box of produce, dairy, and shelf stable food, with enough to sustain a family for several days. Please note that only one box of food will be provided per recipient at each event.

This event will run in compliance with state COVID-19 orders regarding social distancing.

For questions and more information, residents may call the UCDHS Director’s Action Line at 888-845-3434 or 908-558-2288.

To learn more about Village Super Market, visit: https://www.myvillagesupermarket.com.

To learn more about Gargiulo Produce, visit: http://www.gargiuloproduce.com.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Union County, NJ – Union County held the inaugural event of the new Fresh Start mobile program on Wednesday, December 1, in Elizabeth. Fresh Start is the first county-based program of its kind in New Jersey. The inaugural event was held at St. Joseph Social Service Center, a Union County community partner, at 118 Division Street in Elizabeth.

“Union County is thrilled to have launched the mobile Fresh Start program,” said Commissioner Board Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “We will continue our outreach efforts to provide these essential services to our most vulnerable residents.”

“Yesterday, I was able to join Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded in engaging with multiple County residents who received winter clothes, were able to shower and do laundry while also receiving information about Union County social services available to them,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, who is the Commissioner Board’s Liaison to the Union County Human Services Advisory Council. “I spoke to a couple that is currently sleeping in their car. This program made it possible for them to receive essential Fresh Start services and also provided the opportunity for them to speak to specialists that could assist them with their housing and employment needs. This is one example as to why this grassroots program is so important. We look forward to continuing this program around the County, so that all residents in need can benefit.”

More than a dozen Union County residents in need participated. They were able to shower, do laundry and access information for critical social service support programs at the event.

The Fresh Start program is part of Chairman Mirabella’s “Union County Rising” initiatives for 2021, aimed at maximizing countywide resources for response to the COVID-19 pandemic while addressing emerging needs in the areas of fiscal planning, public safety, education, economic development, opportunity, inclusion, and diversity in addition to human services.

The centerpiece of Fresh Start is a mobile trailer equipped with bathroom and shower units as well as laundry facilities. It is operated and maintained in accordance with standards for preventing the spread of COVID-19.

The Fresh Start trailer serves as a portal and contact platform for a continuum of resources leading to self-sufficiency, including emergency shelter and clothing. Access to ongoing resources including but not limited to mental health services, housing, and employment assistance will be available.

The trailer can also provide essential services to Union County residents who are displaced by natural disasters and other emergencies, in addition to providing services to those in financial need.

This kick-off event for the Fresh Start program was a coordination of a wide variety of resources among public and non-profit organizations, such as Union County Department of Human Services, St. Joseph’s Social Service Center, Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless, PROCEED, Inc., and the Moving New Jersey Forward Foundation.

The Fresh Start trailer will visit locations throughout Union County based on request. Agencies and organizations that are interested can send a request via email to freshstart@ucnj.org.

Additional details are available through the Union County Department of Human Services at https://ucnj.org/dhs/fresh-start.

For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Environmental assessment under way, including water and sediment testing.

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of County Commissioners is pleased to announce that work is moving forward on the restoration of the Clark Reservoir. Located along Robinson’s Branch of the Rahway River in the Township of Clark, the reservoir was built in 1907. It was part of the municipal water supply system until it fell out of use the 1990’s. It was purchased by Union County in 2008 for preservation as public open space.

“The Clark Reservoir represents one of the last opportunities to preserve a large parcel of land in Union County for nature conservation and public recreation, and we are approaching the restoration project with great care,” said Commissioner Board Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “Creating a plan for the Clark Reservoir is one of the priorities I announced as Chairman this year. By putting in the time and effort now, we can ensure that Union County residents and visitors can enjoy this unique natural resource for generations to come.”

“As part of the planning process for the restoration project, we listened carefully to input from local residents and other stakeholders. There are many different opportunities to provide for recreational activities as well as nature conservation at the Clark Reservoir,” said Commissioner Christopher Hudak, who serves on the Union County Open Space, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Board and a resident of Clark.

“Preserving open space in our densely populated area has been a priority for Union County residents for generations. Those who preceded us left a legacy of beautiful parks that are used by residents of all ages, and provided for conservation areas that promote healthful biodiversity. The restoration of the Clark Reservoir will serve as our generation’s legacy for the future,” said Commissioner Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded, who is Chair of Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund Board.

Members of the public had the opportunity to submit suggestions for restoration and improvement of the park. Walking trails, a fishing pier, a boat launch, gardens and playgrounds are among the many options proposed. Opportunities for environmental education and activities have also been proposed.

An environmental assessment of the site is currently under way, including testing of the water and sediment.

Union County has received two grants from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs totaling $500,000 towards the cost of assessment and remediation. In addition, $4 million in funding is included in the New Jersey state budget approved last June.

Members of the public can take an aerial video tour by visiting the County website at ucnj.org/videos/clark.mp4. The video illustrates some of the challenges involved in restoring the site, which is surrounded by residential and commercial development.

Union County was among the first counties in the U.S. to establish a county-based park system. The first parks were established in the 1920’s as conservationists became alarmed over rapid development and pollution in the area. Despite the challenges of acquiring open space for preservation in a densely populated region, the County has continued to add land to the park system. The original total of five parks and 2,000 acres has grown into an interconnected network of 36 parks totaling more than 6,000 acres.

Union County purchased the Clark Reservoir from the Township of Clark for $1.00 in 2008. Consistent with the original vision of an open space network linked by waterways and greenways, the County also acquired adjacent and nearby properties including the former St. Agnes property on Madison Hill Road, the former Schwarz and Esposito Farms, and a portion of Hazelwood Cemetery.

For more information about the Union County Department of Parks and Recreation, visit ucnj.org/parks-recreation.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

In-person FEMA office in Union County will remain open until further notice.

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of County Commissioners advises residents impacted by Hurricane Ida that the deadline for applying for individual assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency has been extended again. The new deadline to apply is Wednesday, January 5, 2022.

In addition, the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Union County will remain until further notice, to provide residents with in-person assistance if needed.

“This new extension will help ensure that everyone who was impacted by the storm has an opportunity to apply for federal assistance, including those who need in-person assistance with determining their eligibility and filling out forms,” said Commissioner Board Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

The FEMA Disaster Recover Center for Union County is located in the O’Donnell Dempsey Senior Community Center, at 618 Salem Avenue in Elizabeth. It is open from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

Federal disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rent, essential home repairs, personal property losses, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

To apply for disaster assistance with FEMA online, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA app, or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).

A free legal service is available from Legal Services of New Jersey for Union County residents facing legal issues due to the remnants of Hurricane Ida.

Examples of include assistance with benefits, insurance claims, replacement of personal documents, and counseling on creditor-debtor and landlord-tenant issues.

To submit a request for assistance visit online at lsnjlawhotline.org or call 888-576-5529 (888-LSNJ-LAW) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

The service is a partnership between the New Jersey State Bar Association, the American Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Division and FEMA.

Union County is one of 12 counties in New Jersey designated for disaster relief through FEMA after the remnants of Hurricane Ida swept through the region in September, in the form of a destructive tropical storm. It is considered one of the deadliest storms in the state’s history.

The other counties covered by federal disaster relief funding are Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, and Warren.

For information and updates on Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

 

The Covid-19 Virtual Town Hall will focus on misinformation and vaccines for children.

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board of Commissioners invites members of the public to attend a virtual, interactive Town Hall on COVID-19, on Zoom beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 7, aimed at helping the Union County community understand the science behind COVID-19 vaccines, including booster shots and pediatric doses for ages 5-11.

Union County will also livestream the event on Facebook.

A pre-registration link is available at ucnj.org/covid19/town-hall. Registrants may submit questions in advance at this link.

“We are hearing concerns about newly available vaccines for children, as well as guidance on booster shots and third doses for persons with immune deficiencies,” said Commissioner Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “The Virtual Town Hall will provide an opportunity to get reliable answers from experts in the fields of medicine and public health, and we encourage everyone to attend.”

“The Town Hall is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that every Union County resident has access to up-to-date information about preventing infection from this deadly virus. We continue to encourage residents to can get fully vaccinated as soon as possible, and we hope that everyone who still has questions about COVID-19 will attend the Town Hall and get the facts,” said Commissioner Sergio Granados, who is Chairman of the Board’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee.

The Town Hall will be hosted by Union County Superintendent of Schools Daryl Palmieri and will feature a panel of experts consisting of:

Dr. Margaret Fisher: A specialist in infectious disease and pediatrics, Dr. Fisher is co-chair of the Professional Advisory Committee to the New Jersey Department of Health. She is also Medical Director of Clinical and Academic Excellence at Monmouth Medical Center.

Dr. Cecilia Di Pentima: The director of pediatric infectious disease at Morristown Medical Center and a professor of pediatrics at Thomas Jefferson University, Dr. Di Pentima is Double-board-certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases. She is a specialist in treating children with an array of complex conditions, with more than 20 years of experience working closely with her young patients’ pediatricians, neonatologists, intensive care unit doctors, and other specialists.

Joseph Youngblood II, Ph.D.: Dr. Youngblood serves as Senior Vice President for External Affairs at Kean University and is Chair of the St. Francis Medical Center’s Board of Trustees. St. Francis is an acute care teaching hospital with more than 300 medical staff physicians representing all specialties.

For updates and additional details about the Town Hall visit Union County online at ucnj.org/covid19/town-hall.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including free vaccination, free testing, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.

Omicron variant included in testing protocols

Union County, NJ – The Union County COVID-19 Partnership Lab at Kean University has expanded testing protocols to include detection of the Omicron variant. Beginning this week, COVID-19 testing done through Union County mobile clinics and permanent testing sites have analysis prepared to identify cases of all currently known variants.

“Variant strains of COVID-19 have made the fight against this pandemic a battle with many moving parts,” said Union County Commissioner Board Chairman Alexander Mirabella.  “We strongly urge residents to get tested if they have been exposed and to get their vaccine or booster as soon as possible.”

“The Board of County Commissioners will continue to provide residents with opportunities for testing,” said Commissioner and Chair of the Public Safety Committee Sergio Granados. “Easy access to both testing and vaccination remains our focus and is key to keeping Union County residents safe as we continue to navigate COVID-19 and its variants.”

As part of the efforts to identify possible cases of the Omicron variant within Union County and in addition to current analysis of tests performed this week, COVID-19 positive test samples going back 30 days have been pulled and re-sequenced.

The Omicron variant, first identified in South Africa, has been detected in several countries in Africa, Europe and North America. One of the identifying factors is the existence of an S-gene dropout in a spike protein. An S-gene dropout is not indicative of the Omicron variant, however all positive results of the Omicron variant have been identified as containing the S-gene dropout.

There are currently five states with confirmed cases of the Omicron variant – California, Colorado, Hawaii, Minnesota and New York. The case in Minnesota was confirmed to have been a COVID-19 positive result of someone who attended a conference at the Javits Center in Manhattan with over 40,0000 participants. Due to the fact that this case was identified in the tristate area, the New Jersey Department of Health is working in a collaboration with the State of New York in contact tracing efforts related to this case.

Along with the permanent testing sites at Kean University in Union and the Gerry B. Green Building in Plainfield, Union County offers pop-up COVID-19 mobile test clinics in local communities in order to reach vulnerable populations including seniors, homeless individuals, and others who would have difficulty traveling to a centralized vaccine site. All results are analyzed through the Union County COVID-19 Partnership Lab at Kean University. For a list of https://ucnj.org/covid19/covid-19-testing-options/

Appointments at the pop-up clinics or permanent vaccine sites can be booked online by creating an account at ucnj.org/vax. Residents looking to visit the Immunization Clinic for a free COVID-19 vaccine can walk in Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, including the Union County COVID-19 Test Center at Kean University, the Mobile Test Unit, vaccination information, emergency food distribution and other support services, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.

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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.

Connect with Union County on social media.