Attention Owners and Managers of Affordable Housing:
Thank you to you and your staff for working to ensure that New Jersey's residents are safe and healthy during this pandemic. The Agency understands that this is a difficult task and we acknowledge the importance of your jobs.
We know that you are providing assistance to your residents, from conducting wellness calls, to connecting with community organizations such as food banks to ensure that daily needs are being met, as well as doing what you can to ensure the spread of COVID-19 is contained.
These additional efforts are particularly important for properties that house the most vulnerable populations: seniors, those with special needs, and those with underlying health conditions who are at risk of serious complications from COVID-19.
In order to assist affordable housing properties during this unprecedented situation, the Agency has compiled a list of resources that you and your staff may find helpful.
GENERAL RESOURCES
FREE COUNSELING FOR RENTERS
If any of your residents are concerned about making rent payments as a result of COVID-19, the Agency is now offering free housing counseling to renters. A list of HUD-certified housing counselors can be
found here
RESOURCES FOR SENIOR and SPECIAL NEEDS POPULATIONS
The Division on Aging Services (DoAS) is available to assist you and/ or your senior residents. Many have offered their services to assist with wellness calls to residents. DoAS has provided the following resources:
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES FOR SENIOR
and SPECIAL NEEDS POPULATIONS
MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
Many find social distancing to be isolating and lonely. During this time, residents may want to speak to someone about their concerns and feelings. Recently, Medicare has expanded telehealth services to include allied health professionals such as therapists and social workers. Medicare recipients may be eligible for telehealth services including phone consultation if they do not have access to technology. You can find more information on other resources from the
Mental Health Association of NJ
.
The toll-free number to call for the NJMentalHealthCares
hotline is 1-866-202-HELP (4357).
The hotline is open 7 days per week, 8am to 8pm.
ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE
The Agency is available to assist you and your staff with questions regarding the availability and coordination of services to ensure the emotional, physical and mental well-being of your residents. Please contact Maria DiMaggio, Social Services Administrator at
[email protected]
or Anne Hamlin, Director of Tax Credit Services at
[email protected]
if there are unmet needs at your properties.
