WOODBRIDGE – In wake of rising number of reported positive COVID-19 cases over the past few days, seniors living at the St. Joseph’s Senior Nursing Home and Assisted Living Facility are being moved to another facility in northern New Jersey, according to Mayor John E. McCormac.
The mayor, in his daily report on March 24, said they were notified of the move. A total of 11 of the township cases are from the St. Joseph’s Senior Home. McCormac had reported one of the elderly patients from the nursing home – who tested positive for COVID-19 – passed away from the virus at the hospital on March 21.
“Please pray for their well being and safety and for their caregivers who have gone through an enormously trying time,” he said.
St. Joseph’s Senior Home has been operated by the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception since 1981, according to its website. It is a non-profit Catholic healthcare community focused on offering a continuity of high-quality senior living.
McCormac reported six new positive COVID-19 cases on March 24. The new number of cases brings the total amount of cases in the township to 33.
“Our Health Department is mapping all the cases with no noticeable clusters in any particular area of the town or among any particular age group,” he said.
McCormac said township officials remain concerned about its senior population and anyone living alone. He urged people to reach out and check on their neighbors.
The mayor also in his daily report noted issues with clogged main lines and pump stations in the township. He urged while it’s important to maintain all safe practices, for residents not to discard rubber gloves, all types of wipes, paper towels and other hygiene products in the sanitary sewer system.
“They will clog your household lateral pipe to the street which is the homeowner’s responsibility,” he said, adding they are finding “plumbers are reluctant to enter homes during the emergency.”
Official notices from the township about dealing with COVID-19, as well as a list of Woodbridge pharmacies, food stores and restaurants that remain open can be found at www.twp.woodbridge.nj.us.
McCormac said the township is also in need of people to drive food and pharmaceuticals to seniors. For anyone interested in volunteering their time call 732-726-6262.
