During a press conference on March 25, Monmouth County officials requested donations for what they said are desperately needed supplies and announced a donation drop-off site. Officials also discussed county operations and the upcoming elections during the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.
“At the county, all of our employees have been instructed to practice social distancing and many are following alternative work plans,” said Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone.
“With that said, it is also important to note the county is open and operational. While physical public access has been restricted, there are several ways for the public to access the county. Phone calls and emails are being answered and steps have been taken, such as live-streaming, to make sure we are still reachable,” Arnone said.
Arnone announced that the Monmouth County Health Department hotline now has an email address. Questions can be emailed to MonmouthCOVID19@visitmonmouth.com at any time and they will be answered during normal business hours, according to a press release from the county.
The Monmouth County Health Department hotline, 732-845-2070, is open to answer general questions about COVID-19 weekdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“We are asking for help from nurses to volunteer with the Monmouth County Health Department to do case management or to help in any capacity. There is a lot of work to be done and we are asking for help from trained professionals who may be available to assist us in our efforts,” Arnone said.
Nurses who are willing to volunteer may call 732-845-2070 or email MonmouthCOVID19@visitmonmouth.com
“People who are overwhelmed with uncertainty and experiencing anxiety may feel uncomfortable calling the Monmouth County Health Department hotline because they do not want anyone to think they are in a crisis situation,” said Freeholder Susan M. Kiley.
“Currently, Monmouth ACTS is working on a phone number for anyone who needs emotional assistance to call to discuss this challenging time,” she said.
Monmouth County Sheriff Shaun Golden said the county’s healthcare workers and first responders need personal protective equipment, which has become increasingly scarce due to the ongoing battle against COVID-19.
“Healthcare professionals and first responders remain at the forefront when battling COVID-19 and are in dire need of this personal protective equipment to continue to respond to this unprecedented demand for services,” Golden said.
“We invite you to assist us by donating items from the list of personal protective equipment, in order for those on the front lines to protect themselves while protecting the public,” he said.
Personal Protective Equipment needed includes nitrile examination gloves, surgical or N95 masks, protective gowns, protective face shields, multi-function no-contact infrared thermometers, hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes.
Donations of these items are being accepted at Thompson Park, 805 Newman Springs Road (Route 520), Lincroft, beginning March 25, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
For additional information, or to arrange the drop-off of personal protective equipment, call 732-842-4000, ext. 4312. The phone number is staffed every day, including weekends, according to the press release.
