[NFBNJ] Fwd: DHS In the Community - July 2024

Thu Aug 1 19:50:35 UTC 2024

--------- Forwarded message ---------
From: DHS-NJ NEWS <DHS-NJ.NEWS at dhs.nj.gov>
Date: Thu, Aug 1, 2024 at 9:25 AM
Subject: DHS In the Community - July 2024

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[image: A banner graphic featuring the outline of the state of New Jersey
and the words "New Jersey Human Services"]
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*NEWSLETTER | JULY 2024*

[image: Disability Hub graphic]
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*NJ Human Services and Office of Innovation Launch Disability Information
Hub *

Commissioner Sarah Adelman and State Chief Innovation Officer Dave Cole
launched a Disability Information Hub
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website during a virtual event commemorating Disability Pride Month and the
34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA Day). The Hub,
located at NJ.gov/Disabilities
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will serve as a one-stop shop to connect New Jerseyans with disabilities,
their families, caregivers, and advocates with state services and resources
in an accessible format. The Hub and related referral services are among
Fiscal Year 2025 investments to support inclusion and services for New
Jersey’s diverse disability community.

“Across state government, our Administration has pursued equity and
inclusion for individuals with disabilities, improved access to services,
and strengthened supports for this community. For many individuals and
families, New Jersey’s Disability Information Hub will be a game-changer.
Having streamlined, easy access to the State’s comprehensive collection of
services and supports will put needed tools and resources in reach for
countless people,” *said Governor Phil Murphy.* “Together, we are breaking
down barriers and empowering all New Jerseyans to thrive in their
communities. I commend the whole-of-government effort to uplift the State’s
disability community.”

            “The anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act marks
significant progress in protecting civil rights and promoting the full
inclusion and dignity of people with disabilities. Under the Murphy
Administration, Human Services has made substantial investments to better
serve and support individuals with disabilities and their families,” *said
Commissioner Sarah Adelman*. “The Disability Information Hub is a gateway
to a wealth of resources available to this community. We are proud to
launch this comprehensive and accessible resource, especially during
Disability Pride Month, and could not have done so without the dedicated
work of the Office of Innovation and Office of Information Technology, as
well as the many individuals with disabilities and fellow state agencies
and offices who helped test and improve the website.”

            “The Hub represents a whole-of-government approach centered on
people with disabilities. From community surveys and focus groups to user
testing with individuals with lived experience, this Hub was created with
the input of those with disabilities at the forefront to better serve this
community,” *said Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services
Kaylee McGuire*. “It is imperative to plan for the success of all New
Jerseyans, and that includes online spaces.”

            “More than one million New Jerseyans have at least one
disability, that’s nearly 20 percent of our state’s population. The
creation of this Hub will ensure 1 in 5 of our loved ones, family members,
or friends have access to key services and programs in a streamlined format
to make informed decisions about one’s health and well-being,” *said
Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Executive Director Elizabeth Hill*.
“Everyone deserves the same access to essential information, and this Hub
ensures that. For those who are deaf and hard of hearing, additional
translation efforts are forthcoming and we urge these individuals to
contact us at the numbers listed above if you are in need of additional
information.”

“For individuals with disabilities, their families and those who care for
them, it is not always easy to know where to start looking for resources.
The Disability Information Hub offers a streamlined guide for New Jerseyans
to find essential disability-related information,” *said Division of
Disability Services Executive Director Peri Nearon*. “We look forward to
seeing how this Hub will positively impact those it serves and urge users
to leave feedback, so we can continue to properly serve the disability
community as a whole.”

To read a quick start guide for caregivers, click here
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.
            For a PDF version of key services and supports profiled in the
Hub, visit the NJ Resource Guide
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available from the Department of Human Services’ Division of Disability
Services.

Learn more HERE
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.

Watch the New Jersey Disability
Information Hub launch livestream.

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Learn about the New Jersey
Disability Information Hub.

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With audio description and transcript:
Learn about the New Jersey
Disability Information Hub.

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[image: NJSave graphic]
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Human Services Awards ‘Senior Save Navigator’ Grants to Promote NJSave
Application, Enroll More Eligible Residents in Cost-Saving Programs

Commissioner Sarah Adelman announced $5.1 million in grants have been
awarded to several organizations to serve as “Senior Save Navigators” to
raise public awareness about the NJSave application
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provide application assistance, and enroll more eligible residents in
cost-saving programs available through NJSave.

The Department awarded $466,000 grants each to the following 11 entities:
Alliance Center for Independence, Bergen County Division of Senior
Services, Catholic Charities Diocese of Trenton, Community Health Law
Project, Family and Children’s Services of Monmouth County, Kennedy Health
Care Foundation, New Jersey Citizen Action Education Fund, Norwescap,
Resources for Independent Living, Save Latin America Inc. and United Way of
Hunterdon-Mercer County.

 “Through the Senior Save Navigator Program, we are offering another way to
connect older New Jerseyans with affordable prescription drugs and other
benefits,” *said Governor Phil Murphy.* “The NJSave application serves as a
one-stop shop that enables applicants to save time and to sign up for more
than a dozen savings and discount programs – but this tool is only valuable
if our seniors know it’s available. Raising awareness of NJSave is crucial
as it will ensure we reach more eligible community members.”

“We are eager to continue spreading the word about NJSave through this new
partnership with trusted community partners and to enrolling even more
people in programs that help save on common living expenses. Awareness and
enrollment assistance are critical to helping consumers take advantage of
important savings programs,” *said Commissioner Adelman.* “The NJSave
application screens for eligibility to more than a dozen cost-saving
programs available to low-income older adults and those with disabilities.
Navigators will walk people through the application from start to finish at
no cost. We encourage anyone who believes they are eligible to visit
NJSave.org and take advantage of this assistance.”

“While the NJSave application conveniently screens for a wide range of
programs, we understand the application process and gathering the necessary
documentation can be daunting for some. The last thing we want is for
people who are eligible to forgo these savings. Our new navigators will not
only help people apply, but will also provide education and outreach to
raise awareness and connect more people to these benefits,” said *Kaylee
McGuire, Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services.*
Learn more HERE
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.

[image: group photo at awards ceremony]

[image: Photo of awardee]

*NJ Human Services Honors Blind and Visually Impaired Individuals at
Trenton Thunder Game*

Celebrating the accomplishments of individuals who are blind, deafblind,
and visually impaired, Human Services’ Commission for the Blind and
Visually Impaired (CBVI) today announced college scholarships to four
blind, deafblind, or visually impaired students and recognized other blind
and visually impaired students for their academic achievements during a
recent
Trenton Thunder game.

            “We are honored to celebrate these amazing individuals for
their outstanding accomplishments and provide financial support through
these scholarships,” *Commissioner Sarah Adelman said*. “We look forward to
seeing these trailblazers continue to reach their dreams and to explore
their infinite potential as they pursue higher education.”

            “These students represent the importance of full inclusion in
our communities, which fosters diversity, equity, and a sense of belonging
for all,” *Deputy Commissioner for Aging and Disability Services Kaylee
McGuire said*. “We congratulate these individuals on their success and look
forward to celebrating what they will accomplish in years to come.”

            “It is of utmost importance to spotlight the achievements of
exemplary students who also happen to be blind, deafblind and visually
impaired and we are proud to do so in front of their family, friends and
loved ones,” *said **Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired*
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Executive
Director Dr. Bernice Davis*. “We are thrilled to award these scholarships
again and welcome these individuals to the 2024 cohort of scholarship
winners.”
            Scholarship awards ranged from $1,000 to $5,000. This year’s
awardees are:

   - *Ava Bullis of Manahwakin*, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in
   Business at St. Joseph’s University. Ava received the Cathy and Herb
   Bodensiek Scholarship for Students Majoring in Science, Technology,
   Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) or in Business Administration.
   - *Madeline Mau of West Windsor, *who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in
   Music Technology at New York University. Madeline received the Nathan &
   Sally Rogoff Scholarship for Academic Excellence.
   - *Reydina Lawrence of Union*, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in
   Biology at Seton Hall University. Reydina received the Caroline Rose Foster
   Scholarship for Independence and Self-Determination.
   - *Patrick Lant of Sewell*, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in
   Kinesiology at the University of Delaware. Patrick received the Mary Louise
   Buckley Scholarship for Students Majoring in Health Services or
   Communications.
   - *Adamarie Tait of Forked River*, *Alex Kahan of Monroe*, *Henry
   Johnson Jr. of Vineland*, *Nora Cumisky of Cranford*, and *Timothy
   Palermo of Ocean View* also received $200 each for being finalists in
   the college scholarship program.

Learn more HERE
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.

[image: photo of blind woman with a mentor]

A Bridge Between Generations: NJ Human Services Opens Mentorship Program
for Blind and Visually Impaired Individuals

Commissioner Sarah Adelman announced the Department has opened for a second
year a mentorship program to bring together younger and older residents who
are visually impaired, blind, and deafblind. This Fellowship Program is
designed to address their needs through peer mentoring opportunities.

 “The Fellowship Program is designed to foster community and mutual
mentorship by building meaningful connections between individuals 18-21
years of age and individuals 55 years of age and older who are visually
impaired,” *said Commissioner Adelman. *“We are proud to once again make
this program available to New Jerseyans with a visual impairment and look
forward to partnering with Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey on this
initiative.”

The Department awarded $34,077 to Vision Loss Alliance of New Jersey
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(VLANJ)
to operate this program in partnership with the Department’s Commission for
the Blind and Visually Impaired
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(CBVI).
The program will be paid for through federal funding. Services are expected
to start this July and will run through December 31st.

Through the Fellowship Program, adults who are 55+ and younger individuals,
between the ages of 18-21 years, will be provided with the opportunity to
meet and share knowledge and life experiences through a series of
educational and skill-based activities.

Services include hosting virtual meetings through Zoom twice a month and
hosting in-person meetings twice a year. The meetings will serve up to 24
participants consisting of both large and small group activities, as well
as facilitated discussions related to living life with a visual
impairment.  The participants will include up to 12 young adults and up to
12 older adults.

“Through these virtual and in-person meetings, individuals from two
different age groups will have shared space to discuss the emotional
aspects of vision loss, participate in self-advocacy training, learn how to
build healthy relationships, and much more,” *said Deputy Commissioner for
Aging and Disability Services Kaylee McGuire.* “We look forward to the
continuation of this program and seeing the bonds created.”

“Connecting with those from a different generation holds the power to
enrich personal growth, deepen your understanding of yourself, and provide
invaluable insights that contribute to your well-being,” *said Executive
Director of the Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired Dr. Bernice
Davis.* “We look forward to seeing the positive impact this program will
have for our blind and visually impaired residents.”
Learn more HERE.
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[image: NJ Familycare graphic]
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*Human Services and Community Affairs Commissioners Announce Developers Can
Apply for $95M to Build ‘Healthy Homes’ for NJ FamilyCare Members*

Commissioner Sarah Adelman and Community Affairs Commissioner Jacquelyn A.
Suárez announced developers can apply for funding to provide affordable
housing for NJ FamilyCare members.

Under the Healthy Homes partnership, the $95 million available will be used
to produce up to 200 low-rent housing units for NJ FamilyCare members who
are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or living in an institution. NJ
FamilyCare
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is New Jersey’s Medicaid program.

“Access to safe, stable, and affordable housing is a necessity that New
Jerseyans deserve to see fulfilled, and it directly impacts an individual’s
overall health and wellness,” *Governor Phil Murphy said.* “By making $95
million available through the Healthy Homes Initiative, we are building on
the life-changing benefits made available to New Jersey families through NJ
FamilyCare and taking decisive steps to bolster health and housing equity.
I commend Commissioners Adelman and Suárez for their leadership on this
issue and look forward to seeing the impact of this program.”

“Housing is one of the primary social determinants of health, and research
has shown that inadequate housing is often a critical barrier to wellness
that can also raise health care costs,” *Commissioner Sarah Adelman said.*
“New Jersey’s Healthy Homes program aims to provide affordable,
community-based housing to NJ FamilyCare members in need, which ensures
long-term housing stability for tenants and, importantly, advances health
equity. We believe investing these one-time funds in safe and affordable
housing for the Medicaid population will help us serve people the best way
possible.”
Learn more HERE
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.

[image: baby getting diaper changed]

Governor Murphy Signs Bill to Establish Menstrual
Hygiene and Diaper Benefit Programs

Governor Phil Murphy signed A2027/S2330 to establish the State Work First
New Jersey Menstrual Hygiene Benefit Program and the State Work First New
Jersey Diaper Benefit Program. The bill also appropriates $2.5 million from
the General Fund to the Division of Family Development
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to administer
these programs.

Work First New Jersey (WFNJ)
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is
the State’s cash assistance program, which provides monthly cash, child
care, job search and readiness, and short-term housing support for eligible
New Jersey residents. Under the Menstrual Hygiene Benefit Program, certain
eligible adults ages 18 through 50 who are participating in WFNJ may
purchase menstrual hygiene products using a dedicated $14 monthly State
benefit through their electronic benefits card. Menstrual hygiene products
include tampons, menstrual cups, and sanitary napkins. Similarly, under the
Diaper Benefit Program, individuals with a dependent under 36 months of age
and who participate in WFNJ will receive a $30 monthly State benefit
through their electronic benefits card. The funds shall be for the benefit
of the dependent child and shall be dedicated to purchase of diaper
products. The monetary benefit shall be carried over to the next month for
use by the participants for the same respective purchases. These additional
funds will be distributed on the same issuance date as the participant's
standard WFNJ benefits.

“Work First New Jersey provides essential assistance to residents facing
financial hardship and I am proud to extend this financial relief to cover
costs of menstrual products and diapers. This bill provides residents
across our state a necessary resource to purchase some of the most
essential products for their health and the health of their babies,” *said
Governor Murphy.* “My Administration will continue to prioritize
affordability at every level, ensuring that every resident has access to
the vital health services and supplies that support their well-being,
dignity, and quality of life.”

“Menstrual and baby products are not luxuries–they are necessities,” *said
First Lady Tammy Murphy.* “The benefit included in this bill is a necessary
step to ensuring cost is never a barrier to accessing these products. This
bill brings us closer to a stronger, fairer, more equitable reality for the
women and families of our state.”

This legislation builds upon the Murphy Administration’s commitment to
reproductive, maternal, and child health in New Jersey. For example, under
P.L. 2023, c. 147 and supported by $3.5 million in Fiscal Year 2025
(FY2025), school districts are required to provide menstrual products free
of charge in every public school teaching students in one or more of grades
six through twelve.

“Menstrual care products and diapers are a basic need and a significant
recurring expense that strains tight budgets, yet traditionally have not
been covered by assistance programs. This law provides additional benefits
for eligible households to help individuals afford these essential
products. I am grateful to Governor Murphy, Senate Majority Leader Ruiz and
the Legislature for recognizing this inequity and advancing this important
new benefit,” *said Commissioner Sarah Adelman. *
Learn more *HERE
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=2998fa73ff&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLQVYllUow$>*
.

<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=42768a9645&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLSOLyna_A$>

Did you know that your child who is deaf or hard of hearing
can receive language acquisition services through an
ASL Deaf Language Associate?
Check out our video from NJ Human Services' Division of the Deaf and Hard
of Hearing
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=2bf65d5e4e&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLTYNpxuzw$>
for more information.
To learn more visit HERE
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=10df08557c&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLTViu5tvw$>
.

[image: photo of roundtable event]

[image: photo of roundtable event]

[image: photo of roundtable event]

Commissioner Sarah Adelman and Deputy Commissioner for Health Services
Valerie Mielke held a Family Roundtable with members of the Opioid Recovery
& Remediation Advisory Council along with leaders of four organizations
that provide support for people in recovery or current use. The group
discussed strategies for addressing the opioid crisis and how to support
family who are affected.
To learn more, visit *HERE
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=16e23eef48&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLSWxIGazg$>*
.

[image: group photo at event]

[image: photo of commissioner Adelman sitting at table listening]

Commissioner Sarah Adelman and NJ Human Services officials joined the U.S.
Citizenship and Immigration Services
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=7b94bf0b81&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLSai7CO4A$>
to discuss the needs of immigrants and refugees in the region. They met
with Office of Citizenship, Partnership, and Engagement Chief Eva Millona
and senior staff to discuss naturalization, resources and hear updates.

[image: group photo at event]

[image: photo of special olympics athlete running]

The Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired Assistant Division
Director Charles "Pat" McKenna was thrilled to
participate in the 40th Annual Special Olympics Torch Run with Edison PBA.
Learn about the torch run HERE
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=a590ca7644&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLQaTwoCUQ$>
.
Learn about CBVI's programs and services HERE
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=b86309bdbb&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLTC5KHNkw$>
.

[image: photo of speaker at event]

[image: group photo at event]

Elizabeth Hill, Executive Director of the Division of the Deaf and Hard of
Hearing
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=3b29aeb850&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLThW3iXaQ$>met
with Mariana Diaz-Nagore,
Consul of Mexico in New Brunswick NJ
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=1a5d77ee75&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLSFArt3JA$>
as they begin
collaboration talking to the Mexican community about programs
and services and sharing materials in Spanish.

[image: group photo at meeting]

New Jersey was awarded an Administration for Community Living (ACL) grant
for “Bridging the Gap” between aging and disability networks. Staff from
the Division of Aging Services
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=956e3e0552&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLTXMTH6TQ$>,
Division of Developmental Disabilities
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=c3edb9ea9f&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLSl4Ch7Lg$>
& New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=bfb3f9d769&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLTEmOryvw$>
attended the annual meeting for grant recipients to learn more about
emerging best practices.

[image: July proclamations]

[image: hepatitis day graphic]

NJ FamilyCare covers Hepatitis C curative drug treatment.
To apply, visit our website HERE
<https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/state.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4a2adbde823490b67efa7d8c9&id=0b35a25ea5&e=31f4a67f71__;!!J30X0ZrnC1oQtbA!KFS82KvXNbHHs_0GzZH2WV1MP96uDTkRSPUXWDnyverf-Y2Q3VSSa37EysBx1yCF_Sf6sLd3rduBAXtVpElWw7x8cXoGtE4b8unARLTXVdBZfw$>
.
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