Monmouth County Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone and Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley have announced that as of April 19, the state is reporting 141 new positive cases of COVID-19 in Monmouth County, bringing the total to 4,669.
In a press release, Arnone and Kiley noted that Monmouth County leads New Jersey in having the longest period of time for cases to double (24 days) and they credited that statistic to all of the residents who are all doing their part and practicing social distancing.
The breakdown by municipality is as follows: Aberdeen Township: 131; Allenhurst: 2; Allentown: 4; Asbury Park: 94; Atlantic Highlands: 18; Avon-by-the-Sea: 9; Belmar: 13;
Bradley Beach: 22; Brielle: 22; Colts Neck: 55; Deal: 23;
And, Eatontown: 135; Englishtown: 19; Fair Haven: 18; Farmingdale: 9; Freehold Borough: 167; Freehold Township: 408; Hazlet: 174; Highlands: 20; Holmdel: 150; Howell: 410; Interlaken: 1; Keansburg: 79; Keyport: 55;
Also, Lake Como: 12; Little Silver: 26; Loch Arbour: 1; Long Branch: 266; Manalapan: 327; Manasquan: 24; Marlboro: 315; Matawan: 116; Middletown: 369; Millstone Township: 54; Monmouth Beach: 17; Neptune City: 24; Neptune Township: 243;
And, Ocean Township: 188; Oceanport: 41; Red Bank: 97; Roosevelt: 2; Rumson: 27; Sea Bright: 7; Sea Girt: 9; Shrewsbury Borough: 25; Shrewsbury Township: 7; Spring Lake: 7;
Spring Lake Heights: 15;
Also, Tinton Falls: 102; Union Beach: 30; Upper Freehold Township: 32; Wall Township: 166; West Long Branch: 51; Unknown: 31.
During a press conference on April 16, Arnone said, “While we are beginning to see the curve flattening, it is important to remember we are not out of the woods yet and still need to be diligent about practicing social distancing.
“County employees are adhering to social distancing guidelines and are all being given face coverings this week as an added safety measure,” he said.
Arnone spoke about county initiatives that are forthcoming and currently in place to assist residents of Monmouth County.
“The county is actively working on a number of resources and initiatives to help our residents, especially those who are among the most vulnerable: our senior citizens.
“One example is the Monmouth County Division of Transportation’s SCAT program, which is offering early morning transportation for seniors to take advantage of the designated shopping hours offered by many grocery stores and other essential retail locations,” he said.
For more information about the Monmouth County SCAT transportation services, go to www.visitmonmouth.com or call 732-431-6480.
Kiley announced that in collaboration with the Board of Freeholders and Monmouth ACTS, the Mental Health Association (MHA) of Monmouth County will soon be able to connect individuals with licensed clinicians.
“Beginning April 20, the MHA of Monmouth County will open phone lines to connect residents in need of emotional support to pro bono licensed professionals,” Kiley said.
“So far, 51 incredible clinicians have come forward to volunteer their time and skillset, but more volunteers, specifically bilingual professionals, are needed to bolster this effort. The Monmouth County Health Department hotline will direct callers inquiring about emotional assistance to MHA support services,” she said.
Licensed clinicians interested in volunteering or residents in need can contact the MHA of Monmouth County by calling 732-542-6422 to speak with a live representative from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or emailing mha@mentalhealthmonmouth.org
Kiley also discussed the release of the COVID-19 Community Resource Guide, created by the county’s Office on Aging in cooperation with the 53 municipalities.
“This resource guide for seniors offers a wide range of information and contacts for food delivery, pharmacies, caregiver support, financial assistance and so much more,” she said. “The guide will continue to be updated by municipality as changes occur during this unprecedented time.”
The COVID-19 Community Resource Guide is available at www.MonmouthACTS.org/covid19
“Another great initiative that is becoming increasingly successful is our ‘Take Out in Monmouth’ program, which has been used by more than 10,500 people already,” Arnone said.
“We have added a new subgroup of businesses open for business – garden centers … We have added over 30 garden centers to our list who are practicing social distancing and offering pick-up and delivery.
“As the weather continues to improve, I encourage residents to get outside in their own yards. Fixing up their gardens is one way they can do that in a safe way,” he added.
Monmouth County news updates and information regarding the COVID-19 situation are posted at www.visitmonmouth.com
