MEMORANDUM

From Bernards Township Health Department

We are all deeply saddened and outraged by the recent events that took place in New York City, Washington and Pennsylvania.  We extend our deepest sympathies and prayers to all the people affected by these horrific events.

As your health department, we have been continuously monitoring our communities for any public health issues of concern and have also been acting as a resource and referral agency for those residents in need of counseling or other assistance.  I have been in contact with the Office of Emergency Management and police departments within our contractual towns to keep apprised of all relevant situations.  In addition, I receive daily updates from the New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services regarding any issues significant to the public’s health.  Please feel free to call the health department anytime for assistance at 908-204-2520 or 908-204-3070.

There are many resources available to assist residents during this time of grief and loss.  The state of New Jersey has established a central, single portal for help and information, 1-866-NJCRISIS (866-652-7474).  In addition, the Somerset Hills “Cure Line “ has been established, 908-766-4755 ext. 12 which provides referrals for any resident in need of comfort or help.  Bernards township’s website, www.bernards.org is also being updated on a daily basis to provide up-to-date listings of local resources.

Because of the enormous emotional and physical toll that these events have taken and will take among many of our residents, we suggest the following resources for coping with trauma and loss.

MORRIS COUNTY

Morris County United Way Hotline                               973-625-0280 (24 hours)

Other contacts for support during this difficult time would be:

Ø      Local places of worship; A directory is available in the Little Yellow Book.

Ø      Local hospitals offer various support groups, Morristown Memorial Hospital 973-540-0100 or Somerset Medical Center 908-685-2200

Residents with health coverage may also wish to consider contacting a Mental Health professional through their medical plan.  UMDNJ is also offering free grief and anxiety counseling for adults and children – please call 1-800-969-5300 for more information.

While blood supplies are plentiful right now, supplies will once again be needed in a few weeks.  To give blood, please call the Red Cross at 1-800-448-3543 or the New Jersey Blood Center at 1-800-BLOODNJ.  You may also contact your local hospital. 

Lastly, for a highly useful resource for helping victims of the U.S.attacks, visit www.helping.org.  This compendium site provides lists of phone numbers for relief organizations, airline information, stress and coping resources, and also provides a listing of reputable charitable foundations that are accepting donations.