Ocean County Arc Needs Face Masks, Gowns & Gloves

  LAKEWOOD – The Arc, Ocean County Chapter is seeking public support in their effort to collect 10,000 face masks, isolation gowns and gloves for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and direct support professionals.

  Arc Executive Director Laura Williams said, “we realize we need to remain proactive for the safety of our staff and the individuals we serve amid the COVID-19 crisis.”

  The Department of Health is recommending universal masking for healthcare workers and The Arc, Ocean County Chapter is voluntarily following those guidelines. The Arc is in search of protective face masks, not necessarily the N95 masks reserved for hospitals.

  Williams added, “we have already teamed up with Sew to Stop who are mobilizing sewers in the tri-state area.”

 “We are hopeful we receive the 10,000 masks we need for a 30-day supply for our staff and residents very soon,” Williams said.

The Arc, Ocean County Chapter continues to provide direct care during the COVID-19 crisis to 184 residents among twenty-two group homes, forty-three supervised apartments and eight supportive living apartments. Housing options are based on the individuals needs and desires with the goal to live a full and productive life in the community.

For more information and how you can help, visit arcocean.org.

  The Arc, Ocean County Chapter, Inc. was established in 1955 with the mission to advocate, provide opportunities and supports necessary for all individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

  Their mission includes that all such individuals be accepted and valued as citizens of the communities in which they choose to live, learn, work and play. Currently, the chapter serves more than 1,500 individuals through residential services, vocational services, and family support services.