COVID-19 Updates & Information
Monday, April 20, 2020
Dear Cranford residents,

Earlier today, we received these updated figures for confirmed cases of COVID-19.  
 
  • 282 confirmed cases in Cranford (5 new) 40 fatalities
  • 9,972 confirmed cases in Union County (377 new) 387 fatalities.
  • 88,806 confirmed cases in NJ (3,528 new) 4,377 fatalities since March 4.
      
    Most of the fatalities (30) were Cranford residents living in one of the three long term care facilities in the Township. Our Health Officer and the Office of Emergency Management are in regular contact with the medical staff of these facilities.
    We are saddened to hear of every resident who has died and extend our sincere condolences to their families and friends and keep them in our thoughts and prayers.  
Medical Staff at Overlook Hospital Needs our Help
     Former Cranford resident Tim Styler let us know that medical personnel at Overlook need surgical caps and headbands. If you can sew, here are two patterns to use, but feel free to find another pattern. The finished caps and headbands can be left in a container outside the Cranford Fire Department. Please place the caps and headbands in a plastic bag before placing them in the container.


Social Distancing Does Not Mean Social Isolation

       These days, we tend to talk about what we cannot do. The people and places we cannot visit. And, of course, we worry. We can and should still stay in touch and it is important to do so. We cannot congregate but we can, and should still go for a walk, a run or a bike ride. It is important to get a change of scenery, fresh air and exercise. And, please remember those who cannot get out and give them a call. Everyone needs to hear from someone.
Here are several good articles and advice Keeping Your Distance to Stay Safe and Tips for Quarantined Parents.

·          Limit news consumption to reliable sources and limit social media consumption.
·          Create and follow a daily routine.
·          Stay virtually connected with others.
·          Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
·          Use psychological strategies to manage stress and stay positive. 
Information about Unemployment for Independent Contractors
     The NJ Labor Department website has information about filing for unemployment benefits and a Frequently Asked Questions section to help you through the process. This will take time because of the extremely high numbers of applicants. www.nj.gov/labor/ and a list of questions and answers for workers dealing with unemployment . Also, http://myunemployment.nj.gov

   Independent contractors, self-employed workers, gig workers, and sole proprietors should check the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program relief options available to you right now, and what is coming.
  The Department of Labor has released a  Frequently Asked Questions document answering questions asked by self-employed workers, independent contractors, and gig workers regarding relief options that are available. It includes an explanation of PUA, a discussion of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, and details on records and documents that you will need to qualify for relief.
The Department of Labor also released  a guide to filing a PUA claim  as an independent contractor, self-employed worker, or gig worker. It contains information about documents and information that you will need to provide to qualify. The PUA application is currently not available but DOL is working around the clock to make the new PUA benefits system available, but until implementation is complete, you should start the process of qualifying for PUA today.
Cranford Public Library Offers New Online Programs
      Library Director Michael Maziekian spoke with Deputy Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty about programs for children, teens and adults at the Library. The Library staff has created lots of new program online to meet the demand while the Library is closed. Please  click here to view the video and learn more about the Library's online offerings.
Something to Brighten Your Day.
  Thank you to Cory Matthews for today’s message.
Union County Test Site at Kean University
     This testing site is only for Union County residents with a prescription from a doctor. Residents can speak with a medical professional and be evaluated for a COVID-19 test by calling 908-373-5105 or 908-214-7107. For more details go to www.ucnj.org . Please be patient. The site is testing between 500-600 people each day. The Site tested 717 people on Wednesday and 680 on Tuesday with a 58-60% positive rate.

Share this Newsletter with Your Cranford Family and Friends, Especially the Elderly   
  • 911 is for emergencies only. Please use 908-272-2222 to reach the Cranford Police Dept. for other matters.
  • Comprehensive information about COVID-19 www.covid.nj.gov
  • Mayor Giblin provides updates and will answer your questions on a Facebook Live broadcast on the Township of Cranford Facebook page. This typically occurs about 4 pm. 
We're Here to Answer Your Questions

Mayor Patrick Giblin                                 p-giblin@cranfordnj.org
Deputy Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty   k-prunty@cranfordnj.org
Commissioner Tom Hannen                    t-hannen@cranfordnj.org
Commissioner Jean Maisonneuve         j-maisonneuve@cranfordnj.org
Commissioner Mary O’Connor               m-oconnor@cranfordnj.org
Administrator Jamie Cryan                      j-cryan@cranfordnj.org

Facebook: TownshipofCranford
Twitter: cranfordtwpnj