Dear friends of DISABILITY RIGHTS New Jersey,
I could not have imagined when I began as Executive Director of Disability Rights New Jersey in January 2019 that a little more than a year later we would find ourselves in the epicenter of a worldwide pandemic. This is a very difficult time for so many in New Jersey, yet the COVID-19 crisis has proven to be particularly devastating for those with disabilities -- especially for people living in institutions and group homes, those who rely on others to provide assistance in daily life, students in special education now learning remotely, and most tragically, the sickest among us in ICUs throughout the state.
As I write you from my home office, I am filled with great pride and humility for the work, commitment, and expertise of my Disability Rights New Jersey colleagues as we strive to ensure that the needs of our fellow New Jerseyeans with disabilities are met. Clearly, the world has changed for all of us, and in particular for those of us living with disabilities. In response, we at Disability Rights New Jersey have been working hard to ensure that those with such needs are being supported, represented, served, and heard.
To make it easier for you to access our recent COVID-19 work, as well as other valuable resources, we are launching this new website. Disability Rights New Jersey has been on the front lines of a myriad of complex and crucial issues over the last several weeks, including the examples below, all of which you can learn more about throughout DRNJ-COVID.org:
Leader in advocacy that policies rationing critical care resources do not discriminate against people with disabilities
Leader in advocacy that hospital’s no visitor policies contain exceptions for a support person for an individual with a disability
Leader in special education, assistive technology, virtual education and preserving student rights under IDEA
Leader in assuring access to services and supports for individuals with IDD during the COVID-19 crisis
Leader in assuring patients at state psychiatric hospitals and developmental centers receive the care they need while being protected from the virus
Most importantly, Disability Rights New Jersey intake is open. We continue to conduct investigations of abuse and neglect and provide legal representation to our clients. We are committed to focusing intensely on COVID-19 issues for as long as needed. We know that many of us are also suffering economic hardships during this crisis, but if you are able to MAKE A GIFT NOW to support Disability Rights New Jersey and our clients, please know that it is both greatly needed and appreciated. You, more than anyone, understand the importance of the work we are engaged in.
Thank you for your commitment and continued support.
Best regards to you and your family,
