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Union County to Hold COVID-19 Emergency Food Distributions in December

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

Saturday, December 18, 2021

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

Sunday, December 19, 2021

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

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.

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Union County Holds First Fresh Start Mobile Shower and Laundry Service Event

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.

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Union County’s Clark Reservoir Slated for Restoration

A view of the Clark Reservoir
A view of the Clark Reservoir, part of the Union County parks system in Clark.

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.

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Union County Residents Can Now Apply for Hurricane Ida Relief until January 5, 2022

hurricane ida federal disaster relief deadline flyerIn-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.

 

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Virtual Town Hall on COVID-19 Vaccines for Union County Residents to be Held on December 7

covid19 virtual town hall flyer

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.

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Union County COVID-19 Lab Expands Testing Capabilities

Omicron variant included in testing protocols

covid19 flyer

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.

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Celebrate the Holiday Season with Sensory Friendly Theatre and The Nutcracker Suite

the nutcracker flyerPresented by the Union County Board of County Commissioners.

Union County, NJ – The Union County Board County Commissioners invites residents to enjoy a sensory friendly version of the beloved ballet classic The Nutcracker, performed live on stage by the American Repertory Ballet at the Union County Performing Arts Center on Sunday, December 5, at 1:00 p.m.

“Sensory Friendly Theater provides an opportunity for children and their families to enjoy the enriching experience of live performances in a beautiful theatre, while providing a relaxed, judgement-free environment. We are delighted to welcome the series back to Union County,” said Commissioner Board Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

The Performing Arts Center is located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway.

All tickets for are $8.00 per person and can be purchased through the Union County Performing Arts Center at ucpac.org or by calling the box office at 732-499-8226.

Please note that proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test is required for all attendees, including children under age 12. For details visit ucpac.org/covid-19.

Sensory Friendly Theatre is sponsored by the Commissioner Board.  The series showcases exciting live performances in an environment tailored to audiences with autism and other sensory sensitivities.

The Sensory Friendly Theatre series began in 2012 as an initiative of Chairman Mirabella. It follows guidelines that help reduce disturbances for youngsters who experience heightened sensory sensitivity.

During each of the Sensory Friendly Theatre performances, the environment at the Union County Performing Arts Center is adjusted to provide a sensory-friendly, comfortable and judgment-free space that is welcoming for all families.

For more information about the series visit ucpac.org/sensory-friendly-theatre.

To see a list of additional recreation activities for persons with disabilities and special needs sponsored by Union County, and to sign up for programs, visit the secure registration page at ucnj.org/reserve.

To contact the Union County Office for Persons with Disabilities and Special needs use the online form at ucnj.org/dhs or call 908-527-4807.

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.

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Reminder: Free Holiday Concert with Terron Brooks and The Company Men

a soulful holiday show flyerFree drive-up concert will observe COVID-19 safety guidelines; space is still available.

Union County, NJ – Music lovers in Union County can celebrate the season with the “Soulful Holiday Show” free drive-up concert presented by the Commissioner Board, featuring Terron Brooks and The Company Men at the campus of the Union County Vocational-Technical Schools, 1776 Raritan Road in Scotch Plains, at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 11.

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

“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 provided to attendees upon registration.

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.

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Reminder: Virtual Town Hall on COVID-19 Vaccines for Union County Residents, Dec. 7

covid19 virtual town hall flyerPresented by the Union County Board of County Commissioners.

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.

The Town Hall will feature a panel of experts in pediatric medicine and infectious disease.

To participate on Zoom and submit questions in advance, and for more details about the panelists, visit 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.

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Five Easy Ways to Reduce Waste This Holiday Season

wrapped gifts stacked on top of each otherUnion County, NJ – As the New Jersey “bag ban” approaches, Union County residents can prepare in advance by taking a few simple steps to cut down on single-use bags and other types of waste. Taking those steps during the holiday season can make a real difference. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the waste generated by American households jumps 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve.

The new state law banning single-use bags will take effect in May. The law aims to reduce the waste of resources in shopping bags and other single-use items.

“As we enjoy the festivities of the season, we can also take a few easy steps to reduce waste. It’s a simple way for all Union County residents to support environmental conservation, by starting at home,” said Union County Commission Chairman Alexander Mirabella.

The additional waste caused by holiday season activity results in up to 25 million extra tons of trash either heading to landfills or burned in incinerators each year.

Here are five easy ways to reduce the holiday season waste:

Avoid excess packaging while shopping:  By bringing your own reusable bag to stores while shopping for presents, you can avoid collecting single-use plastic bags, which often end up in the garbage can after one or two uses. For online purchases, some retailers provide the option to have your order shipped in fewer boxes. That reduces unnecessary packaging and also lowers the overall carbon footprint of the purchase related to transportation.

Shop selectively: Consider quality over quantity when giving gifts.  Quality doesn’t necessarily mean more expensive, but rather more thoughtful, more useful, more durable, and more sustainable.  For example, theatre tickets and other experiences make great gifts and can result in zero waste.  When purchasing items to gift, opt for those made of recycled or sustainable materials when possible.  Shop for eco-friendly gifts at one of Union County’s many local businesses to support the local economy, too.

Save on gift wrap:  Most wrapping paper and gift boxes are used once and thrown in the trash.  Instead, gifts can be wrapped inside other gifts, such as scarves, baskets, blankets, reusable tote bags, or decorative tins.  Decorating and re-using shipping boxes is another option.

Recycle the recyclables:  With so much shopping online, boxes filled with packing materials are a common sight on many doorsteps.  Fortunately, much of it can be recycled.  Cardboard and paper should be put in the curbside recycling bin, as long as it’s clean and dry.  Nine municipalities in Union County also collect block-type Styrofoam packing foam (check ucnj.org/recycling for a list of participating towns).  Clean, dry plastic bags can be recycled at your local grocery store.  Plastic envelopes used for shipping and bubble wrap are not recyclable, but they can be re-used. Save some for re-use and put the rest in household trash.

Find new homes for old items:  Discarding old items to make room for the new is often part of the holiday ritual.  Consider ways to give them a new life through donations to a local second-hand store or non-profit, re-selling them online, or offering them as giveaways through “no-buy” or “free-cycle” groups. Non-working electronic items can be recycled (visit ucnj.org/recycling for information on electronics recycling in your town).

The free Recycle Coach mobile app provides a handy way to find out what items are recyclable in Union County. The app also provides up to date information on both countywide and Union local recycling programs in Union County.

For more information, upcoming dates and directions to all Union County recycling programs and locations, visit the Bureau of Recycling and Planning website at ucnj.org/recycle or call the Union County Recycling Hotline at 908-654-9889.

Quick links to all Union County environmental programs and activities are available at The Green Connection, ucnj.org/green-connection.

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.