As information on the coronavirus, which causes COVID-19, dominates the news, we want to share with you guidance from the State of New Jersey and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Family Resource Network continues to monitor the situation with our entire Network in mind. We are being proactive and have taken the steps to provide information and supports in a manner that prioritizes the health and safety for all.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory disease caused by a new virus that first emerged in October 2019 and has since spread to many countries, including the United States. While health officials have more to learn about how COVID-19 is spread, it is believed that COVID-19 is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when a person coughs or sneezes, and by surface contact.

It is important to review the most up-to-date guidance from national, state, and local public health agencies. Staying informed can help decrease the anxiety people may feel about COVID-19. It can also help prevent the spread of rumors and discourage the stigma and exclusionary behavior that can occur with COVID-19 or any other infectious diseases. 

In this special COVID-19 edition of FRN News we have included trusted sources for information in addition to updates on current FRN programs and services that are available to you. We also encourage you to follow The Family Recovery Network on Facebook for real-time updates.

During this time, please stay safe and healthy.

You may find that certain life events due to COVID-19 will qualify you to enroll or change your current coverage through the Marketplace or off the Marketplace without waiting for the Annual Enrollment Period.

Schedule your Virtual Enrollment Appointment today with an FRN Navigator to see if you qualify for the Special Enrollment Period!

During these trying times it is important you know what services are still available to you and your family through The Family Resource Network (FRN). Even though group activities (such as Weekend Getaways and Out N About) have been suspended until further notice, FRN is permitted according to our state and federal officials to continue providing the essential 1:1 services to individuals with disabilities as long as staff and families meet the standard health protocols outlined. 

Current 1:1 Services:

If you already have a Direct Support Professional (DSP) hired by FRN and are without a Day Program or in need of additional supports you can use your current DSP to provide those hours as long as your budget or authorizations allow. It is important that you speak to your Support Coordinator to make arrangements. If you have someone new that you would like us to hire, we have been granted a temporary approval to fast track hiring of new staff. 

Support Coordination case management services continue to be provided with remote access between staff and the individuals they serve. If you are in need of additional services you should reach out to your Support Coordinator to help you gain access to the services you need.

Behavioral services can continue as usual but only within the existing authorizations. Hours can be during the daytime, evening, or weekends.

If you are unsure of what this means for you or your family and you wish to inquire more please contact 609-392-4900 x 203 or email. We are more than willing to help you navigate services as best we can during this time. We understand how important services like this are to the families we support year round.