Senior citizens, specifically those living in a group setting, have predominately been most at risk of contracting COVID-19.
The Township of North Bergen has been stepping up its support of seniors during the ongoing pandemic as the township continues to cope with being a virus hotspot.
In April, North Bergen mandated the testing of 100 percent of all nursing homes to curtail the spread of the virus. Recently, the North Bergen Housing Authority (NBHA) distributed masks to all tenants, mostly seniors, to further efforts to flatten the curve of the pandemic.
Now housing authority officials are back, this time with a much sweeter, edible surprise. Wearing proper protective equipment, housing authority workers came bearing the gift of candy, with a side of a few stuffed animals.
A sweet delivery for seniors
NBHA staff delivered chocolates, jellybeans, Peeps, and other candies to residents of the township’s senior housing buildings on Tuesday, May 5. The candy was donated by the Walmart in North Bergen. NBHA Executive Director Gerald Sanzari expressed his thanks and the joy the donation would bring residents.
“I would like to thank Walmart, Mayor Nicholas Sacco, and Aimee Focaraccio of NB Cares for getting this candy to NBHA so we could give it to our tenants,” Sanzari said. “There is nothing like sweets to brighten up their day while they shelter in place.”
In addition to fighting to maintain their physical health, senior citizens must also deal with the mental anguish and stress that accompany being the highest at-risk demographic during the pandemic.
Walmart also donated stuffed animals and other toys to the NBHA. The toys will be distributed to children under 12 living in township family housing in Meadowview Village.
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