The Alliance Center for Independence and its allies have compiled a list of some of the most pressing issues facing people with disabilities in NJ (based on our contact with our constituents) and have presented them to state emergency, legislators and human services officials. We recently submitted the list to Governor Murphy. (See below)
We are urging people with disabilities and their family members to write to Governor Phil Murphy to let him know of the issues you are facing during this crisis. During most crises, the issues facing people with disabilities are often crowded out by others...but we can change that!
As many businesses, schools and organizations throughout the state and the country have temporarily closed because of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), the Alliance Center for Independence (ACI) is staying open as long as it can to respond to the needs of our disabled community.
“We are taking all the necessary precautions to keep our staff safe, while assisting our constituents during these difficult times,” said Carole Tonks, Executive Director of ACI. “We have suspended our programs and activities, and told our volunteers to stay home, but we haven’t stopped helping as many as we can.”
Staff at ACI have been calling every person on their mailing to ask if they are ok, to offer assistance, and provide a much needed reassuring voice. “People really appreciate that we are calling them and that we are thinking about them,” says Rachel Gabrilowitz, Employment Coordinator. “Many people are isolated in their homes and are fearful.” Since Tuesday, ACI has called 382 people.
UPDATE on 3/17/20: To protect our consumers and visitors, there will only be staff at the ACI office as of March 18th. We are taking all precautions to stay well and will be here to assist you as long as we can. We will continue to assist our food pantry customers. Please contact us if you need assistance.
At the Alliance Center for Independence (ACI), our priority is to protect and support our consumers, staff, volunteers and visitors. We have been taking several proactive precautionary measures, including implementing new and rigorous cleaning routines, and staying in close communication with our health officials.
Following the guidelines of the federal government and state officials, we decided to minimize our gatherings in order to limit the spread of the Coronavirus.
