Newark Housing Authority Launches COVID Health & Wellness Program

The Newark Housing Authority is offering an expanded list of health and wellness activities to residents of its senior high rises in an effort to help improve their quality of living through the remainder of the pandemic. By utilizing funding from the Federal CARES Act, the NHA C.A.R.E.S Senior Wellness Program will be offering various small group and virtual activities in the month of March that include, African Drumming, acting basics, gentle aerobics, art classes, tech time, meditation and yoga.

“The past year has been both a challenging and trying time for all of us as we work to address the COVID-19 health crisis,” said Executive Director Victor Cirilo. “The Newark Housing Authority has continued to identify ways to better serve our residents through the pandemic and expanding activities for seniors in a safe and socially distant environment is one way of helping improve their quality of life. We remain committed to using all our resources and any Federal funding we receive to ensure each of our residents remains safe and healthy.

The NHA C.A.R.E.S. Senior Wellness program was created in partnership with Lotus Enterprises to support the physical, emotional and mental wellbeing of senior residents through the pandemic. Programs were selected based on a survey shared with residents to ensure classes accommodate their wellness needs and interests.

Each of the classes will be open in person (in accordance with State and CDC guidelines) to a limited number of seniors but accessible through Zoom and Facebook for everyone. Residents who have questions or are interested in attending any of the events can speak with their building manager about the schedule or call 973-273-6597. Additionally, ShopRite is offering fresh produce to senior residents twice per month as part of the initiative.

NHA is continuing to operate mobile COVID-19 testing sites and senior vaccination opportunities when vaccines are available. Through a partnership with St. James Health Centre, residents can schedule free telehealth visits for wellness checks, mental health treatment or substance abuse support. More information about these initiatives can be found on NHA’s Facebook page; Housing Authority of the City of Newark.