PRESS RELEASES & ANNOUnCEMENTS
march - may 2020
Investors Bank Helps Save More Than
35,000 Employee Jobs in Metro New York And New Jersey With SBA Paycheck Protection Program SHORT HILLS, NJ – Investors Bank has had a team of about 150 employees from across the bank working around the clock for the last few weeks on the applications for the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program. The final push involved nearly 40 people working 34 hours straight to process and secure approvals. Investors has helped secure in excess of $328 million in funding to help save the jobs of more than 35,000 employees of small businesses in the Metro New York and New Jersey markets victimized by the economic disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding included $39 million for applications from 177 non-profits also facing an extreme financial crisis. |
Founder, President & CEO of AACCNJ to Serve on New Jersey’s Restart & Recovery Advisory Council
John E. Harmon, Sr., Founder, President & CEO, will serve on New Jersey’s Restart & Recovery Advisory Council. Convened by Governor Phil Murphy as part of a comprehensive public health and economic response to Covid-19, the objective of the New Jersey Restart & Recovery Advisory Council (The Council) is to bring together leaders from various industry, community, and anchor groups and institutions across the state in order to advise state leadership on economic matters impacted by the pandemic. |
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NEWARK – May 8, 2020 – Mayor Ras J. Baraka today announced the second and third round of awards under the City’s Small Business Emergency Fund, to support small businesses directly impacted by Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
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Mercer County has been awarded a total of $320,064 in Federal Funds by the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) National Board –$131,946 for Phase 37 and $188,118 for Phase COVID Supplemental. The purpose of the EFSP is to supplement and expand existing food and shelter services available in local communities. The Mercer County Local EFSP Board will begin accepting applications from local organizations for funding of: (1) emergency food, (2) shelter, (3) utilities, and (4) rent/mortgage assistance. Funding is for eligible agencies only, not individuals or families. This is not FEMA funding for disaster relief.
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CITY OF NEWARK CONDUCTING COVID-19 TESTING FOR NEWARK RESIDENTS ONLY BEGINNING ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, FROM 9 A.M. TO 3 P.M., AT BRANCH BROOK PARK ROLLER SKATING RINK
Drive-Up and Walk-Up testing options by appointment only for residents
Newark, NJ-May 5, 2020--The City of Newark will be offering COVID-19 testing to Newark residents by appointment starting on Wednesday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Rink, located at 7th and Clifton Avenues. Residents should enter through the Park Avenue entrance.
Drive-Up and Walk-Up testing options by appointment only for residents
Newark, NJ-May 5, 2020--The City of Newark will be offering COVID-19 testing to Newark residents by appointment starting on Wednesday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Rink, located at 7th and Clifton Avenues. Residents should enter through the Park Avenue entrance.
MAYOR BARAKA LAUNCHES CITY-WIDE COVID-19 TESTING
FOR NEWARK’S ENTIRE HOMELESS POPULATION
Initiative is first of its kind of New Jersey; Those who test positive will be quarantined
NEWARK – May 4, 2020 – Mayor Ras J. Baraka and the City of Newark today announced the launching of a program to offer mass COVID-19 testing to its entire homeless population. The program is the first of its kind in the state of New Jersey and perhaps the nation.
FOR NEWARK’S ENTIRE HOMELESS POPULATION
Initiative is first of its kind of New Jersey; Those who test positive will be quarantined
NEWARK – May 4, 2020 – Mayor Ras J. Baraka and the City of Newark today announced the launching of a program to offer mass COVID-19 testing to its entire homeless population. The program is the first of its kind in the state of New Jersey and perhaps the nation.
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Due to health and safety concerns regarding the Coronavirus, the NJSBDC network will continue to provide services remotely until further notice. This includes all in-person small business counseling and training, as well as administrative functions and support.
However, we are making every effort to respond to all messages as quickly as possible. Below is important information regarding how we are helping small businesses amid COVID-19: COVID-19 UPDATES Follow and bookmark this link to follow daily updates at the NJSBDC at NJCU regarding small business and COVID-19. Our latest update is the release of an SBA Disaster Assistance Program for New Jersey! Read more www.sbdchudsoncounty.com 3 Step Business Action Plan for COVID-19 Being a small business owner is an overwhelming challenge by itself. Throw in a global pandemic like the COVID-19 AND an unstable economic environment... the stakes couldn't be higher. However, if you've planned to expect the unexpected, you can... Read more www.sbdchudsoncounty.com How To Support Small Businesses During COVID-19 Crisis Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses employ more than half of the working class in the United States. While they are a valuable asset for many great reasons,... Read more www.sbdchudsoncounty.com |
COVID-19 has hit our community hard, but The Urban League of Essex County is working around-the-clock to help our vulnerable neighbors who need us now more than ever. We have rapidly mobilized to bring critical resources to those in dire need!
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Wells Fargo Receives ‘Outstanding’ Community Reinvestment Act Rating
Wells Fargo & Company announced that its subsidiary, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., has received a national rating of “Outstanding” in its most recent Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Performance Evaluation, which covers the years 2012 to 2018. Locally, the New York multistate metropolitan statistical area (MMSA), which includes the Newark, Jersey City and Trenton MSAs, received an “Outstanding” CRA rating. Also, the Philadelphia MMSA, which includes the Camden and Atlantic City MSAs, received an “Outstanding” CRA rating. |
Covid-19 Technology Call To Action
The coronavirus pandemic has caused a technology crisis for many students and teachers in New Jersey – and your company can help. |
COVID-19/Novel Coronavirus Information for New Jersey Businesses
Click here for an official link to NJ.Gov's official page for COVID-19 information and updates Governor Announces New Jobs Portal Governor Phil Murphy recently announced that many businesses across New Jersey are looking to hire thousands of workers, including those who lost their jobs or have had hours reduced as a result of the COVID-19 emergency. Recognizing the economic impact of the closures, New Jersey has launched sites for those looking for work amid the outbreak to connect with businesses that are hiring. Unemployed workers should visit a new resource page, www.jobs.covid19.nj.gov to learn about those employers that are hiring within their community. This website will continue to be updated as more jobs become known and available. Your business can also connect with these workers seeking New Jersey job opportunities by visiting https://jobs.covid19.nj.gov/intake and submitting information on the positions you need filled. |
COVID-19 UPDATE #10:
New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund Efforts Get $2 Million Boost from Horizon --Fund is Addressing Medical, Social, and Economic Impact of Covid-19-- (Newark, NJ, April 13, 2020) – To help address the medical, social, and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Garden State, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey has donated $2 million to The New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund, the response and support organization established by Tammy Murphy, New Jersey’s First Lady. This contribution follows on the heels of Horizon’s $2.5 million purchase of 500,000 N95 masks and 81,000 face shields for donation to the State’s coordinated response effort. |
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We hope that you and your loved ones are doing well and have not been directly affected by the coronavirus. The staff at CASA of New Jersey are doing well and continuing to work from home.
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COVID-19/Novel Coronavirus Information for New Jersey Businesses
Click here for an official link to NJ.Gov's official page for COVID-19 information and updates Governor Announces New Jobs Portal Governor Phil Murphy recently announced that many businesses across New Jersey are looking to hire thousands of workers, including those who lost their jobs or have had hours reduced as a result of the COVID-19 emergency. Recognizing the economic impact of the closures, New Jersey has launched sites for those looking for work amid the outbreak to connect with businesses that are hiring. Unemployed workers should visit a new resource page, www.jobs.covid19.nj.gov to learn about those employers that are hiring within their community. This website will continue to be updated as more jobs become known and available. Your business can also connect with these workers seeking New Jersey job opportunities by visiting https://jobs.covid19.nj.gov/intake and submitting information on the positions you need filled. |
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“As we deal with the most significant public health emergency in our lifetime, cost should not be a barrier to critical care for members diagnosed with COVID-19. These changes provide members added peace of mind so they can focus all of their energies on the one thing that matters most: getting better.”
Kevin P. Conlin Executive Chairman Horizon BCBSNJ READ MORE |
Congress to Approve Additional Funding for SBA Paycheck Protection Program and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program
Click here for full details! |
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Verizon will help consumers and small businesses disrupted by impact of coronavirus
Company will waive late fees and keep residential and small business customers connected if negatively impacted by global crisis Networks continue to perform strongly as Verizon accelerates investments for the future Update: Effective April 27: Verizon is extending its commitment to keep our customers connected through June 30. This means we will neither terminate service nor charge late fees to our postpaid wireless, residential, and small business1 customers that notify us of their inability to pay their bills due to disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Customers can notify us by visiting here. 1 includes small business customers with 50 lines or less Verizon helps eliminate worry for customers during time of great need
Click here to read the full article |
Due to health and safety concerns regarding the Coronavirus, the NJSBDC network will continue to provide services remotely until further notice. This includes all in-person small business counseling and training, as well as administrative functions and support.
However, we are making every effort to respond to all messages as quickly as possible. Below is important information regarding how we are helping small businesses amid COVID-19: COVID-19 UPDATES Follow and bookmark this link to follow daily updates at the NJSBDC at NJCU regarding small business and COVID-19. Our latest update is the release of an SBA Disaster Assistance Program for New Jersey! Read more www.sbdchudsoncounty.com 3 Step Business Action Plan for COVID-19 Being a small business owner is an overwhelming challenge by itself. Throw in a global pandemic like the COVID-19 AND an unstable economic environment... the stakes couldn't be higher. However, if you've planned to expect the unexpected, you can... Read more www.sbdchudsoncounty.com How To Support Small Businesses During COVID-19 Crisis Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), small businesses employ more than half of the working class in the United States. While they are a valuable asset for many great reasons,... Read more www.sbdchudsoncounty.com |
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Yesterday evening, the U.S. Small Business Administration approved Governor Murphy’s application for assistance and will now offer low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital up to $2 million to New Jersey small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information, and download applications at: https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Click here for more information! |
ALERT: U.S. Senate Votes to Pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Earlier this afternoon, the U.S. Senate voted to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. As we shared earlier this week, the U.S. Chamber had sent a letter urging President Trump and congressional leadership to enact, as swiftly as possible, this legislation to ensure American businesses of all sizes can mitigate the potentially devastating economic effects from the spread of the Coronavirus. To see an updated summary from the U.S. Chamber on the legislation that has since been approved, please click here. Please note that edits to the original document were made visible to demonstrate what changes were made. This evening, U.S. Chamber CEO Tom Donohue issued the following statement in response to the vote: "The Chamber applauds congressional leaders for moving quickly to pass a strong, bipartisan coronavirus response package that will provide immediate relief to American workers and families during this unprecedented time. We strongly urge the administration and Congress to now turn their attention to supporting America’s employers. No family or business should go bankrupt because of the unexpected financial hardships caused by the coronavirus.” Click Here to Read the Official Statement |
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Facebook announced today that it’s creating a
$100 million grant program for small businesses. Applications aren’t open yet, but the company says this will include both ad credits and cash grants that can be spent on operational costs like paying workers and paying rent. It will be available to up to 30,000 businesses in the 30-plus countries where Facebook operates. Facebook has also created a Business Hub with tips and resources for businesses trying to survive during the outbreak. In related news, The White House is seeking a stimulus package worth anywhere from $850 billion to over $1 trillion as the Trump administration looks to battle the economic impact from the coronavirus pandemic, according to a source familiar with the matter. An administration official said the package could include: • $500 billion to $550 in direct payments or tax cuts • $200 billion to $300 billion in small business assistance • $50 billion to $100 billion in airline and industry relief Potentially $250 billion of the package could go toward making direct payments to Americans. For regular updates, follow the Main Street Business Alliance on Facebook and Twitter. Stay safe, Patrice Foresman Executive Director |
NEW DETAILS FOR THE NJ TURNPIKE CAPITAL PLAN HEARINGS
Today the New Jersey Turnpike Authority is hosting two hearings on proposed changes to its toll schedule. The new tolls are expected to fund a $24 billion capital program, which would be more than three times as large as the 2008 - 2018 NJ Turnpike/Garden State Parkway widening program. Click here for full details. |
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MAYOR ANNOUNCES
8 P.M. CURFEW AND ADDS ADDITIONAL BUSINESSES EXEMPT FROM IT Contact: Press Information Office Press Secretary: Crystal Rosa Phone: 973-733-8004/8165 PressOffice@ci.newark.nj.us For Immediate Release MAYOR BARAKA ANNOUNCES 8 P.M. CURFEW TO COMBAT CORONAVIRUS. NON-ESSENTIAL BUSINESSES MUST CLOSE TONIGHT. CITY HALL REMAINS OPEN TO RESIDENTS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Click here for full press release. |
MAYOR BARAKA HOLDS PRESS CONFERENCE ON COVID-19;
DISCUSSES WIDE-RANGING EFFORTS TO MITIGATE CORONAVIRUS IMPACT Mayor and senior directors discuss shelter-in-place orders, health services, sanitizing senior centers, short-term housing for homeless, and economic and investment programs to support residents, businesses, and non-profits CLICK HERE FOR FULL PRESS RELEASE |
NJEDA Announces Application Launch Date for Grants for Businesses Impacted by COVID-19
First of Several Programs Designed to Support Businesses Facing COVID-Related Economic Challenges
TRENTON, N.J. (March 31, 2020) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) will launch the application for its Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program on Friday, April 3, 2020 at 9:00 am. A link to the grant program application will be posted on the State’s COVID-19 Business Information Hub. The grant program is part of a package of initiatives announced last week to support businesses and workers facing economic hardship due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.
First of Several Programs Designed to Support Businesses Facing COVID-Related Economic Challenges
TRENTON, N.J. (March 31, 2020) – The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) will launch the application for its Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program on Friday, April 3, 2020 at 9:00 am. A link to the grant program application will be posted on the State’s COVID-19 Business Information Hub. The grant program is part of a package of initiatives announced last week to support businesses and workers facing economic hardship due to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.
STATE & FEDERAL UPDATES
march - may 2020
Severance-Pay Law Pushed Back Due to COVID-19
New Jersey's law requiring large companies to pay their workers severance whenever there is a mass layoff has been delayed until 90 days after New Jersey’s state of emergency has been lifted. The state was to become the first to implement such a policy this coming July when the law was to take effect, but the coronavirus pandemic has put extra strain on employers, leading to concerns about the liability of paying out severance packages on top of the economic fallout.
Read More
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Payments Have Begun
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development began making payments Friday to the self-employed, independent contractors and others who are not usually eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. The federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) is a new program authorized by Congress as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Read the Update
Remote Notary Services Temporarily Allowed
New Jersey is now one of more than 40 states to allow notaries and authorized officials to execute remote notarial acts during the current public health emergency. There are still requirements that must still be met, such as "satisfactory evidence" of identity for the persons involved, but the law is designed to remove the major barriers that arose as offices and businesses shut down based on CDC and federal government guideliness.
View the Law
State Parks Are Now Open
The Governor re-opened state parks along with golf courses late last week, leaving it open to local county governments to determine if it's best to open up or keep them closed. The approach brings New Jersey in line with neighboring states, with the hope that it will discourage residents from crossing state lines for recreation. The order does not come without restrictions, however, such as prohibiting picnics and contact sports.
Read the Order
New Jersey's law requiring large companies to pay their workers severance whenever there is a mass layoff has been delayed until 90 days after New Jersey’s state of emergency has been lifted. The state was to become the first to implement such a policy this coming July when the law was to take effect, but the coronavirus pandemic has put extra strain on employers, leading to concerns about the liability of paying out severance packages on top of the economic fallout.
Read More
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Payments Have Begun
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development began making payments Friday to the self-employed, independent contractors and others who are not usually eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. The federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) is a new program authorized by Congress as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Read the Update
Remote Notary Services Temporarily Allowed
New Jersey is now one of more than 40 states to allow notaries and authorized officials to execute remote notarial acts during the current public health emergency. There are still requirements that must still be met, such as "satisfactory evidence" of identity for the persons involved, but the law is designed to remove the major barriers that arose as offices and businesses shut down based on CDC and federal government guideliness.
View the Law
State Parks Are Now Open
The Governor re-opened state parks along with golf courses late last week, leaving it open to local county governments to determine if it's best to open up or keep them closed. The approach brings New Jersey in line with neighboring states, with the hope that it will discourage residents from crossing state lines for recreation. The order does not come without restrictions, however, such as prohibiting picnics and contact sports.
Read the Order
New Jersey State Updates From Sen. Booker
I know many of you are looking forward to a pleasant weekend as New Jersey parks begin to reopen (please follow state and local guidelines!), but before venturing outside tomorrow, here’s what you should know about what Senator Booker has been working on, AND next week’s important May 5th IRS Deadline.
**IRS DEADLINE: Tuesday, May 5th is the IRS deadline for recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and VA benefits who didn’t file tax returns in 2018 or 2019 to register for an Economic Impact Payment for dependents. To enter your information, please visit the IRS website by May 5th to register your dependents and ensure you receive the $500 benefit passed by Congress in the CARES Act. Please share this information with your networks!
Small Business: Earlier this week, I sent an email alerting you to the reopening of the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) after Congress allocated additional funding specifically targeted for underserved small businesses and nonprofit organizations, including rural, minority, and women-owned businesses. As of the middle of the week, the SBA had approved 960,000 PPP loans from 5,300 lenders, for a total of $90 billion. As these numbers suggest, the need to get assistance to our small businesses is urgent, and Senator Booker will continue to fight on their behalf when he returns to Washington.
Just for Jersey:
· SNAP: This month, New Jersey families with SNAP assistance will receive the maximum benefit allowable for their family size. This additional benefit will be added directly to your EBT card at the regular time of your award.
· PPE: On Wednesday, Senator Booker announced $43 million in FEMA Public Assistance grants to the New State Police Office of Emergency Management to support frontline workers. This funding will help purchase and distribute PPE to hospitals, health care providers, long-term care facilities, first responders, and state agencies.
Seniors: Senator Booker also announced $1.1 million to support the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Aging & Disability Resource Center to ensure the well-being of seniors and adults with disabilities during the pandemic.
Legislative Updates:
Price-Gouging: Over the course of the pandemic, New Jersey has received more than 3,600 complaints about price-gouging. This week, Senator Booker unveiled legislation to ban price-gouging of essential goods and services during emergencies. Though New Jersey has enacted legislation preventing price-gouging, Senator Booker’s bill would expand the measure at the federal level.
Local Journalism: During the pandemic, our local newspapers have disseminated important information each day. To support their efforts, Senator Booker called on the Office of Management and Budget to direct federal funding to support local radio, television, and print media affected by the pandemic.
Voter Education: As seen during the Wisconsin primary, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on the normal elections process of this nation. In an effort to expand voter education efforts in the midst of the pandemic, Senator Booker urged Facebook this week to combat the spread of voter disinformation on its platform and educate users on voting and voter registration.
This Week in Outreach: You may have seen Senator Booker taking questions from constituents on a News 12 NJ Town Hall earlier this week. Senator Booker also provided updates to updated mayors, county officials, and the African American Chamber of Commerce. He also spoke with hundreds of staff and volunteers from numerous organizations, including: NJ’s homeless shelters, the Red Cross of NJ, and 27 Federally Qualified Health Centers.
Finally, wishing you all a Happy May Day! Thank you, especially, to all of the essential workers for putting your own health on the line, everyday, so that New Jersey can continue to function.
As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or our office at (973) 639-8700. Please continue to visit booker.senate.gov/coronavirus and covid19.nj.gov/ for the latest updates.
Warmly,
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Hanna Mori, Esq.
State Director | U.S. Senator Cory Booker
I know many of you are looking forward to a pleasant weekend as New Jersey parks begin to reopen (please follow state and local guidelines!), but before venturing outside tomorrow, here’s what you should know about what Senator Booker has been working on, AND next week’s important May 5th IRS Deadline.
**IRS DEADLINE: Tuesday, May 5th is the IRS deadline for recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and VA benefits who didn’t file tax returns in 2018 or 2019 to register for an Economic Impact Payment for dependents. To enter your information, please visit the IRS website by May 5th to register your dependents and ensure you receive the $500 benefit passed by Congress in the CARES Act. Please share this information with your networks!
Small Business: Earlier this week, I sent an email alerting you to the reopening of the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) after Congress allocated additional funding specifically targeted for underserved small businesses and nonprofit organizations, including rural, minority, and women-owned businesses. As of the middle of the week, the SBA had approved 960,000 PPP loans from 5,300 lenders, for a total of $90 billion. As these numbers suggest, the need to get assistance to our small businesses is urgent, and Senator Booker will continue to fight on their behalf when he returns to Washington.
Just for Jersey:
· SNAP: This month, New Jersey families with SNAP assistance will receive the maximum benefit allowable for their family size. This additional benefit will be added directly to your EBT card at the regular time of your award.
· PPE: On Wednesday, Senator Booker announced $43 million in FEMA Public Assistance grants to the New State Police Office of Emergency Management to support frontline workers. This funding will help purchase and distribute PPE to hospitals, health care providers, long-term care facilities, first responders, and state agencies.
Seniors: Senator Booker also announced $1.1 million to support the New Jersey Department of Human Services’ Aging & Disability Resource Center to ensure the well-being of seniors and adults with disabilities during the pandemic.
Legislative Updates:
Price-Gouging: Over the course of the pandemic, New Jersey has received more than 3,600 complaints about price-gouging. This week, Senator Booker unveiled legislation to ban price-gouging of essential goods and services during emergencies. Though New Jersey has enacted legislation preventing price-gouging, Senator Booker’s bill would expand the measure at the federal level.
Local Journalism: During the pandemic, our local newspapers have disseminated important information each day. To support their efforts, Senator Booker called on the Office of Management and Budget to direct federal funding to support local radio, television, and print media affected by the pandemic.
Voter Education: As seen during the Wisconsin primary, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on the normal elections process of this nation. In an effort to expand voter education efforts in the midst of the pandemic, Senator Booker urged Facebook this week to combat the spread of voter disinformation on its platform and educate users on voting and voter registration.
This Week in Outreach: You may have seen Senator Booker taking questions from constituents on a News 12 NJ Town Hall earlier this week. Senator Booker also provided updates to updated mayors, county officials, and the African American Chamber of Commerce. He also spoke with hundreds of staff and volunteers from numerous organizations, including: NJ’s homeless shelters, the Red Cross of NJ, and 27 Federally Qualified Health Centers.
Finally, wishing you all a Happy May Day! Thank you, especially, to all of the essential workers for putting your own health on the line, everyday, so that New Jersey can continue to function.
As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me or our office at (973) 639-8700. Please continue to visit booker.senate.gov/coronavirus and covid19.nj.gov/ for the latest updates.
Warmly,
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Hanna Mori, Esq.
State Director | U.S. Senator Cory Booker
Important State & Federal News:
- Daily Briefing: Gov. Murphy will deliver a coronavirus briefing at 3 p.m. in Trenton. Click here to watch the livestream.
- Long-Term Care Facilities: Daily updates of COVID-19 data from long-term care facilities across the state have been included in the New Jersey COVID-19 Dashboard.
- New Federal Help for Small Businesses: A new $483 billion federal coronavirus relief measure appears to be on the fast-track to approval. The measure, which is expected to be signed into law this week, includes $310 billion to refund the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), $75 billion to support hospitals, and $25 billion to help states increase testing.
- Payment Relief for Student Loan Borrowers: New Jersey residents with commercially-owned Federal Family Education Program Loans or privately held student loans who are struggling to make their payments due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be eligible for expanded relief.
- Unemployment Assistance for Self-Employed & Gig Workers, Independent Contractors: Assistance is available to self-employed workers, independent contractors, gig and platform workers who are impacted by COVID-19 through Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and possibly the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). Self-employed workers, independent contractors, gig and platform workers advised to visit this page before applying for Unemployment Insurance benefits.
- Behavioral Healthcare for Children: The Department of Children and Families offers a continuum of behavioral healthcare for youth up to age 21. The DCF’s Division of Children’s System of Care (CSOC) provides services that include mental health and substance use treatment as well as programs for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities. CSOC is a leader in the nation for its Mobile Response and Stabilization Services, which offers almost immediate face to face crisis support and de-escalation management for families with children experiencing a behavioral health episode. This is available 24/7/365 by calling 1-877-652-7624.
- Free Flight for Healthcare Volunteers: As part of the state’s efforts to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, the governor announced that United Airlines and Delta Airlines, in conjunction with the New Jersey Department of Health, are offering free round-trip flights to health care workers coming to New Jersey to help with the state’s COVID-19 response.
- New Financial Help for Municipalities: The New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (I-Bank) has implemented a backstop municipal bond note program. I-Bank’s $50 million program is designed to help mitigate financial impacts to municipalities during the coronavirus state of emergency, launched on April 15.
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (Board) will soon implement its Energy Efficiency Proposal as required by the Clean Energy Act (CEA) and Energy Master Plan (EMP). Final Board action is anticipated in May of this year, with energy efficiency programs scheduled to commence in June 2021. According to the Proposal, the Board will ensure energy efficiency access for low-income communities; decrease energy burden; expand job opportunities; and increase economic development.
As chambers of commerce representing New Jersey’s African American and Hispanic-owned businesses— while we support the goals of the state’s energy efficiency transition, we urge the Board to increase investments in minority contractors— to ensure minority inclusion and to expand participation. Although energy efficiency is the fastest growing sector in the energy industry, few African Americans and Hispanics are included in the workforce, and few own businesses participating in the industry.
As chambers of commerce representing New Jersey’s African American and Hispanic-owned businesses— while we support the goals of the state’s energy efficiency transition, we urge the Board to increase investments in minority contractors— to ensure minority inclusion and to expand participation. Although energy efficiency is the fastest growing sector in the energy industry, few African Americans and Hispanics are included in the workforce, and few own businesses participating in the industry.
NEws articles
march - may 2020
As unemployment continue to rise, so do car insurance rates | Opinion
Posted May 26, 2020
By Jersey Journal Guest Columnist
By Eric Poe
How much our world has changed. It seemed like just yesterday, our biggest concern was budgeting for summer vacation. Today, even as we begin to “re-open” cautiously, our worries remain dire with the long term consequences unknown.
The impact of COVID-19 is staggering, and the residual effects regionally and nationwide is incalculable. Whether it is the report of tens of millions of Americans now unemployed or the nearly one million New Jersey residents who have filed for unemployment, the numbers are unfortunately continuing to rise.
Click here to read the full article.
Posted May 26, 2020
By Jersey Journal Guest Columnist
By Eric Poe
How much our world has changed. It seemed like just yesterday, our biggest concern was budgeting for summer vacation. Today, even as we begin to “re-open” cautiously, our worries remain dire with the long term consequences unknown.
The impact of COVID-19 is staggering, and the residual effects regionally and nationwide is incalculable. Whether it is the report of tens of millions of Americans now unemployed or the nearly one million New Jersey residents who have filed for unemployment, the numbers are unfortunately continuing to rise.
Click here to read the full article.
New Jersey beaches to open in time for Memorial Day weekend with some restrictions
(CNN) — New Jersey may get its summer after all. Things might look just a little bit different.
Ocean and lakefront beaches in the state will be open by Memorial Day weekend, Gov. Phil Murphy announced at a press conference on Thursday, with capacity limitations and social distancing remaining in place.
Every beach must limit the number of visitors allowed there while maintaining six-feet social distancing, Murphy said. The restrictions will be enforced except for family groups, household caretakers or couples.
Click here for full article.
(CNN) — New Jersey may get its summer after all. Things might look just a little bit different.
Ocean and lakefront beaches in the state will be open by Memorial Day weekend, Gov. Phil Murphy announced at a press conference on Thursday, with capacity limitations and social distancing remaining in place.
Every beach must limit the number of visitors allowed there while maintaining six-feet social distancing, Murphy said. The restrictions will be enforced except for family groups, household caretakers or couples.
Click here for full article.
Op-Ed: Ensuring Underserved Communities Fully Benefit from Green Economy
DAVE DALY, RICHARD SMITH | MAY 11, 2020 | OPINION, ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT
Energy-efficiency programs are a perfect way to generate green jobs in communities that need jobs the most.
April 22 marked the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Amid the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and its extraordinary impact on the health, economic and social well-being of our state, Earth Day is a historic milestone deserving of celebration and sustained action. It also is an appropriate time to recognize New Jersey’s progress in meeting the challenge of climate change, particularly as we plan for the state’s economic recovery due to the coronavirus.
Click here for full article.
DAVE DALY, RICHARD SMITH | MAY 11, 2020 | OPINION, ENERGY & ENVIRONMENT
Energy-efficiency programs are a perfect way to generate green jobs in communities that need jobs the most.
April 22 marked the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Amid the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and its extraordinary impact on the health, economic and social well-being of our state, Earth Day is a historic milestone deserving of celebration and sustained action. It also is an appropriate time to recognize New Jersey’s progress in meeting the challenge of climate change, particularly as we plan for the state’s economic recovery due to the coronavirus.
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SBA issues PPP guidance on laid-off employees who refuse to be rehired
By Jeff Drew
May 4, 2020
Businesses that received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans can exclude laid-off employees from loan forgiveness reduction calculations if the employees turn down a written offer to be rehired, according to new guidance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which warned that employees who reject offers of reemployment may find themselves ineligible to continue receiving unemployment benefits.
The guidance was included among three new questions the SBA added over the weekend to a PPP frequently asked questions (FAQ) file it maintains in consultation with Treasury. The new guidance is included in FAQs 40–42. The first of the new questions asks if a borrower's PPP forgiveness amount would be reduced if the borrower lays off an employee and then offers to rehire the employee, but the employee declines the offer.
Click here to read the full article!
By Jeff Drew
May 4, 2020
Businesses that received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans can exclude laid-off employees from loan forgiveness reduction calculations if the employees turn down a written offer to be rehired, according to new guidance from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which warned that employees who reject offers of reemployment may find themselves ineligible to continue receiving unemployment benefits.
The guidance was included among three new questions the SBA added over the weekend to a PPP frequently asked questions (FAQ) file it maintains in consultation with Treasury. The new guidance is included in FAQs 40–42. The first of the new questions asks if a borrower's PPP forgiveness amount would be reduced if the borrower lays off an employee and then offers to rehire the employee, but the employee declines the offer.
Click here to read the full article!
Boys & Girls Clubs of Mercer County to Host Online Programs for Trenton’s Youth — TrentonDaily
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Mercer County is trying to make educating your children online a fun and enjoyable experience! Throughout the week this organization will be posting various educational and enrichment activities on its Facebook page for youth at home culminating to a fun and interactive online webinar on May 13th!
Click HERE to read more!
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Mercer County is trying to make educating your children online a fun and enjoyable experience! Throughout the week this organization will be posting various educational and enrichment activities on its Facebook page for youth at home culminating to a fun and interactive online webinar on May 13th!
Click HERE to read more!
Governor Murphy, Governor Cuomo, Governor Lamont, Governor Wolf, Governor Carney, Governor Raimondo & Governor Baker Announce Joint Multi-State Agreement to Develop Regional Supply Chain for PPE and Medical Equipment
05/3/2020
States Will Aggregate Demand for PPE, Medical Equipment and Testing on a Regional Basis
Regional Supply Chains Will Help Realize Better Pricing, Delivery and Reliability of PPE and Medical Equipment for States
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf, Delaware Governor John Carney, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo and Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker today announced a joint multi-state agreement to develop a regional supply chain for personal protective equipment, other medical equipment and testing.
While the states will continue to partner with the federal government during this global and national public health crisis, they will also work together to identify the entire region’s needs for these products, aggregate demand among the states, reduce costs and stabilize the supply chain. The states will also coordinate policies regarding the inventory of PPE each state’s health care infrastructure should have to be prepared for a possible second wave of COVID-19. The states will also coordinate policies on what supplies local governments should have on hand for their First Responders, and if any requirements regarding PPE for the non-for-profit and private sector are needed.
Click Here to Read the Full Article
05/3/2020
States Will Aggregate Demand for PPE, Medical Equipment and Testing on a Regional Basis
Regional Supply Chains Will Help Realize Better Pricing, Delivery and Reliability of PPE and Medical Equipment for States
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf, Delaware Governor John Carney, Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo and Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker today announced a joint multi-state agreement to develop a regional supply chain for personal protective equipment, other medical equipment and testing.
While the states will continue to partner with the federal government during this global and national public health crisis, they will also work together to identify the entire region’s needs for these products, aggregate demand among the states, reduce costs and stabilize the supply chain. The states will also coordinate policies regarding the inventory of PPE each state’s health care infrastructure should have to be prepared for a possible second wave of COVID-19. The states will also coordinate policies on what supplies local governments should have on hand for their First Responders, and if any requirements regarding PPE for the non-for-profit and private sector are needed.
Click Here to Read the Full Article
Food Lines A Mile Long in Americas Second Wealthiest State
By Tracey Tully
Published April 30, 2020
EGG HARBOR, N.J. — Jean Wickham’s two sons are in college. Her husband has worked at the same New Jersey casino for 36 years.
She recently felt secure enough to trade her full-time casino job for two part-time gigs that came with an expectation of bigger tips.
Then the coronavirus shut down every casino in Atlantic City and instantly put more than 26,000 people out of work — 10 percent of the county’s population.
Click Here to Read the Full Article by The New York Times
By Tracey Tully
Published April 30, 2020
EGG HARBOR, N.J. — Jean Wickham’s two sons are in college. Her husband has worked at the same New Jersey casino for 36 years.
She recently felt secure enough to trade her full-time casino job for two part-time gigs that came with an expectation of bigger tips.
Then the coronavirus shut down every casino in Atlantic City and instantly put more than 26,000 people out of work — 10 percent of the county’s population.
Click Here to Read the Full Article by The New York Times
Now landing at food banks in N.J. — 15K pounds of donations from United Airlines
What’s happened to all that food that would have fed travelers who aren’t flying during the coronavirus outbreak? It’s landing in food banks to help hungry New Jersey residents.
United Airlines recently donated 15,000 pounds of perishable and non-perishable food that was to be used to serve customers from Newark Airport. The donations were split between the airline’s community partners including City Harvest, Food Bank of South Jersey and Community Food Bank of South Jersey.
Click Here to Read the Full Article on NJ.com
What’s happened to all that food that would have fed travelers who aren’t flying during the coronavirus outbreak? It’s landing in food banks to help hungry New Jersey residents.
United Airlines recently donated 15,000 pounds of perishable and non-perishable food that was to be used to serve customers from Newark Airport. The donations were split between the airline’s community partners including City Harvest, Food Bank of South Jersey and Community Food Bank of South Jersey.
Click Here to Read the Full Article on NJ.com
The coronavirus is infecting and killing
black Americans at an alarmingly high rate
By Reis Thebault , Andrew Ba Tran and Vanessa Williams
April 7 at 11:45 PM - As the novel coronavirus sweeps across the United States, it appears to be infecting and killing black Americans at a disproportionately high rate, according to a Washington Post analysis of early data from jurisdictions across the country.
he emerging stark racial disparity led the surgeon general Tuesday to acknowledge in personal terms the increased risk for African Americans amid growing demands that public-health officials release more data on the race of those who are sick, hospitalized and dying of a contagion that has killed more than 12,000 people in the United States.
A Post analysis of available data and census demographics shows that counties that are majority-black have three times the rate of infections and almost six times the rate of deaths as counties where white residents are in the majority.
Click Here to read full article by The Washington Post
black Americans at an alarmingly high rate
By Reis Thebault , Andrew Ba Tran and Vanessa Williams
April 7 at 11:45 PM - As the novel coronavirus sweeps across the United States, it appears to be infecting and killing black Americans at a disproportionately high rate, according to a Washington Post analysis of early data from jurisdictions across the country.
he emerging stark racial disparity led the surgeon general Tuesday to acknowledge in personal terms the increased risk for African Americans amid growing demands that public-health officials release more data on the race of those who are sick, hospitalized and dying of a contagion that has killed more than 12,000 people in the United States.
A Post analysis of available data and census demographics shows that counties that are majority-black have three times the rate of infections and almost six times the rate of deaths as counties where white residents are in the majority.
Click Here to read full article by The Washington Post
The rapidly-evolving guidelines at the state and federal level with respect to COVAD-19 has prompted a need for restaurant owners to respond effectively to this growing pandemic.
A webinar held yesterday by the James Beard Good food for Good Foundation explores ways to survive, take care of employees and other concerns. If you’re a food provider in Trenton, NJ, this recorded webinar entitled “Catch Up on Our Food Industry + COVID-19” provides useful tips from leading food operators.
To access the information, visit: https://www.jamesbeard.org/blog/catch-up-on-our-food-industry-covid-19-webinar.
A webinar held yesterday by the James Beard Good food for Good Foundation explores ways to survive, take care of employees and other concerns. If you’re a food provider in Trenton, NJ, this recorded webinar entitled “Catch Up on Our Food Industry + COVID-19” provides useful tips from leading food operators.
To access the information, visit: https://www.jamesbeard.org/blog/catch-up-on-our-food-industry-covid-19-webinar.
Atlantic City casinos donate excess food during closing
When Gov. Phil Murphy said Monday that the city’s nine casinos would be shutting down indefinitely, the gambling parlors realized they had tons of food, literally, that could go to waste. Less than 12 hours after they closed their doors to gamblers, the casinos were donating pallets of fresh and packaged food to the region’s food banks, community centers and social service agencies.
All nine of the city’s casinos — Bally’s Atlantic City, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Caesars Atlantic City, Golden Nugget Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, Ocean Casino Resort, Resorts Casino Hotel and Tropicana Atlantic City — have been making deliveries or arranging pickups since Tuesday morning.
Click here to read the full article by The Press of Atlantic City
When Gov. Phil Murphy said Monday that the city’s nine casinos would be shutting down indefinitely, the gambling parlors realized they had tons of food, literally, that could go to waste. Less than 12 hours after they closed their doors to gamblers, the casinos were donating pallets of fresh and packaged food to the region’s food banks, community centers and social service agencies.
All nine of the city’s casinos — Bally’s Atlantic City, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Caesars Atlantic City, Golden Nugget Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, Ocean Casino Resort, Resorts Casino Hotel and Tropicana Atlantic City — have been making deliveries or arranging pickups since Tuesday morning.
Click here to read the full article by The Press of Atlantic City
Volunteers with the Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City hand out bagged meals with food donated by Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. DAVID DANZIS Staff Writer
Perth Amboy schools distributing meals to city students
The district has implemented an emergency food service distribution program for children to receive food at Perth Amboy High School, the Robert N. Wilentz School, and the Lopez school from 8-11 a.m. on March 16-20. Bridgewater Courier News
Click here to read more
The district has implemented an emergency food service distribution program for children to receive food at Perth Amboy High School, the Robert N. Wilentz School, and the Lopez school from 8-11 a.m. on March 16-20. Bridgewater Courier News
Click here to read more
First Trenton resident tests positive for Coronavirus,
Mercer County has 9 cases
TRENTON — A Trenton resident has tested positive for the coronavirus, officials said Tuesday, marking the capital city's first case amid the global pandemic.
Click here to read the full article by the Trentonian
Mercer County has 9 cases
TRENTON — A Trenton resident has tested positive for the coronavirus, officials said Tuesday, marking the capital city's first case amid the global pandemic.
Click here to read the full article by the Trentonian
Sean 'Diddy' Combs launches 'Our Fair Share' - New Platform Dedicated to Helping Minority-Owned Small Businesses Access Second Round of PPP Funding
NEW YORK, April 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Entrepreneur and Media Mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs today launched OURFAIRSHARE.com, a platform built to help minority entrepreneurs and small businesses access much-needed capital amid the economic devastation brought by COVID-19.
NEW YORK, April 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Entrepreneur and Media Mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs today launched OURFAIRSHARE.com, a platform built to help minority entrepreneurs and small businesses access much-needed capital amid the economic devastation brought by COVID-19.
Food banks struggle as demand explodes thanks to coronavirus layoffs
By Tami Luhby, CNN
Updated 6:51 PM ET, Fri April 3, 2020
(CNN)More people in need. Less food being donated. And volunteers staying home.
Food banks across the nation are facing a perfect storm as they try to help the growing number of hungry Americans amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Millions of people newly unemployed mean food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens are seeing a flood of new clients appearing at their doors, just as supplies are dwindling because of growing demand from consumers stuck at home.
By Tami Luhby, CNN
Updated 6:51 PM ET, Fri April 3, 2020
(CNN)More people in need. Less food being donated. And volunteers staying home.
Food banks across the nation are facing a perfect storm as they try to help the growing number of hungry Americans amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Millions of people newly unemployed mean food banks, food pantries and soup kitchens are seeing a flood of new clients appearing at their doors, just as supplies are dwindling because of growing demand from consumers stuck at home.
Coalition urges action to combat COVID-19 impact on Black communities
Ayana Jones TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER
A group of African-American organizations is calling for decisive government action amidst the coronavirus pandemic in a letter released Tuesday.
Recent news reports have highlighted the link between the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on African Americans and the longstanding economic and health disparities in the U.S.
Ayana Jones TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER
A group of African-American organizations is calling for decisive government action amidst the coronavirus pandemic in a letter released Tuesday.
Recent news reports have highlighted the link between the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on African Americans and the longstanding economic and health disparities in the U.S.
TESU to Host Virtual Information Sessions to Advance Nursing Careers
These challenging times are not defined by the destructive impact of COVID-19, but by the brave men and woman who work tirelessly to help people, families, get through this moment in time. From the hospital ward to the street medical team, nurses continue to be on the frontline of this pandemic serving communities in ways that prompts a pause for....
These challenging times are not defined by the destructive impact of COVID-19, but by the brave men and woman who work tirelessly to help people, families, get through this moment in time. From the hospital ward to the street medical team, nurses continue to be on the frontline of this pandemic serving communities in ways that prompts a pause for....
uplifting stories
NEW JERSEY GOVERNOR PHIL MURPHY ADDRESSES THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY AND PEOPLE OF FAITH REGARDING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
