During this public health emergency regarding COVID-19, the NJ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing can serve as a resource to help local public health officials, offices of the mayors, county administrators, and others be accessible to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
In particular, the NJ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing can assist with resources to find qualified American Sign Language interpreters and communication access real-time transcription services for news conference about COVID-19.
To assist you, the NJ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing maintains directories of certified sign language interpreters and professionally trained CART providers. All entities can access NJDHS directories to ensure the provision of auxiliary aids and services.
When using interpreters, please ensure that the interpreters are placed in a position that is easily captured by the news cameras. During this public health crisis, NJDHS want to ensure that all residents, including deaf and hard of hearing individuals have access to critical information that can help us flatten the curve.
For further guidance or consultation, please contact Elizabeth Hill, Director, of the NJ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing via email at elizabeth.hill@dhs.nj.gov.