Press Releases

Morris County Caregivers Gain Important New Resource

April 3, 2007 – Morristown, NJ – The Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities and Veterans, in partnership with United Way of Morris County and the Caregivers Coalition of Morris County, has launched a new program to support family caregivers in the county.

The Caregiver Support Project is designed to help caregivers access the services needed for their loved ones and themselves.  The Project goes beyond information and referral to help the caregiver with problem solving, advocacy, and support to sustain them in their role as a caregiver.

More than 50,000 Morris County residents care for loved ones of all ages with chronic illnesses or disabilities, according to Theresa Davis, director of the Division on Aging, Disabilities and Veterans.  Davis said the program will help address the myriad needs of an ever-increasing population of caregivers in Morris County.

"Family caregivers are the most important, and too often the most overlooked, community resource," Davis said.  "We want to give caregivers the tools they need to help their family."

Morris County Freeholder John J. Murphy, freeholder liaison to the Division on Aging, Disabilities and Veterans, praised the role caregivers play in the community.

"Caregivers reflect family and community life at its best," Murphy said.  "This new Caregiver Support Project will provide caregivers with the support and encouragement they need to carry out their vital responsibilities."

Kristine Beirne, an LPN who is certified in social work and pastoral ministry, is the coordinator for the Caregiver Support Project.  Beirne, who also has a BA in religious studies, has worked in the area of social services for over 18 years, primarily in aging and disability services, and has herself been a family caregiver under a variety of circumstances.

Caregivers are encouraged to contact the Caregiver Support Project by calling 1.800.564.4656.

The Support Project is located in the Resource Center of the Morris County Division on Aging, Disabilities and Veterans offices, 340 West Hanover Ave., Morris Plains.

The Resource Center is open weekdays from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

About United Way of Morris County
United Way of Morris County is dedicated to helping people and improving the quality of life for all residents. We address issues most critical to the future of Morris County by bringing attention, expertise, and resources to them. For more information, visit us on the web at www.uwmorris.org, or call 973.993.1160.

Contact
Jean Funk
Marketing Communications
United Way of Morris County
973.993.1160, x114
Email