Description:
The Gloucester County Division of Disability Services is a member of the New Jersey Association of County Disability Services whose role is to ensure access and inclusion of residents with disabilities in all areas of the community. The office is a comprehensive center offering information, direct services, referrals and community advocacy. Our mission is to serve as a single point of entry for individuals with disabilities needing information and services from birth through adult life. Our goal is to provide access to services that increase educational, vocational, social opportunities, transitional services from school to work, and personal health and care. The Division of Disability Services provides support that promotes and assists individuals with disabilities to live independently and participate in all areas of community life through collaboration and cooperation with all agencies in the human services system. The Gloucester County Board of Chosen Freeholders is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. The Division of Disability has been designated to coordinate ADA issues, be a resource for municipalities and the community, and research new accessibility regulations that impact future planning. This program assists Gloucester County residents who are blind or visually impaired, and their families. In-home supportive counseling services assist in resolving temporary stress situations, improving relationships, and general coping with the problems that visual impairment or blindness presents. Care management services aid in making referrals to appropriate agencies along with follow-up activities to make sure that the necessary services are provided. The program is oriented toward helping the blind or visually impaired, age 18 and up, to increase their self-sufficiency and become a more vital part of the community. Expanded services include informational seminars and Phone-A-Friend, a telephone peer counseling program. The Social Worker facilitates four blind/visually impaired support groups throughout the County that meet for socialization and activities. The support groups also offer a forum for advising individuals of programs and services provided by the County and other agencies. Gloucester County is committed to the prevention of blindness and in collaboration with the NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired offers free eye care exams twice a month at the Blind and Visually Impaired Center on the campus of Gloucester County College.