Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman and State Chief Innovation Officer Dave Cole launched a Disability Information Hub website during a virtual event commemorating Disability Pride Month and the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA Day). The Hub, located at NJ.gov/Disabilities, aims to connect New Jerseyans with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and advocates with state services and resources in an accessible format. This initiative is part of Fiscal Year 2025 investments to support inclusion and services for New Jersey’s diverse disability community.
“Across state government, our Administration has pursued equity and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, improved access to services, and strengthened supports for this community. For many individuals and families, New Jersey’s Disability Information Hub will be a game-changer. Having streamlined, easy access to the State’s comprehensive collection of services and supports will put needed tools and resources in reach for countless people,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “Together, we are breaking down barriers and empowering all New Jerseyans to thrive in their communities. I commend the whole-of-government effort to uplift the State’s disability community.”
“The anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act marks significant progress in protecting civil rights and promoting the full inclusion and dignity of people with disabilities. Under the Murphy Administration, Human Services has made substantial investments to better serve and support individuals with disabilities and their families,” said DHS Commissioner Sarah Adelman. “The Disability Information Hub is a gateway to a wealth of resources available to this community. We are proud to launch this comprehensive and accessible resource during Disability Pride Month.”
“Human-centered government services build trust and lift up communities across New Jersey. The Disability Information Hub represents the insights of dozens of community-based service providers, families, caregivers, and New Jerseyans with disabilities,” said New Jersey State Chief Innovation Officer Dave Cole.
“The New Jersey Disability Information Hub represents an online one-stop for individuals with disabilities and their families to quickly get information on the services they need," said NJ Department of Children & Families Commissioner Christine Norbut Beyer.
“As we celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act...this can serve as a one-stop shop across your lifespan,” said Vice Chairman of the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities Kevin Nuñez.
“The NJCDD applauds efforts...to create a Disability Information Hub for individuals with disabilities," said Executive Director Mercedes Witowsky.
The Hub provides nearly 200 programs offered by the State of New Jersey. It includes specific pages organized by disability type: intellectual/developmental disabilities; physical disabilities; blind or visually impaired; deaf or hard of hearing; key programs for caregivers; children with disabilities; veterans; transitioning from childhood to adulthood; mental health; assistive technology; transportation; legal rights/advocacy; employment; emergency planning.
In Fiscal Year 2025, funding supports related staff in Division of Disability Services among other notable investments by Murphy Administration such as expanding training requirements for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs); increasing wages in various care programs including DSPs' wages.
The website meets WCAG & Section 508 accessibility requirements using high-contrast colors compatible with screen readers featuring direct feedback from residents including American Sign Language (ASL) welcome video.
For additional help navigating or accessing services call I&R Service at 1-800-285-3036 or ASL videophone service at 1-609-503-4862 among other contact options listed above incorporating input from lived experiences aiming continuous improvement welcoming user feedback evolving better service provision Deputy Commissioner Kaylee McGuire emphasized planning success inclusive online spaces exemplified partnership efforts praised by Chief Technology Officer Chris Rein ensuring essential information accessibility highlighted by Elizabeth Hill DDHH urging contact translation needs furthering impactful streamlined guide provided noted Peri Nearon DDS urging feedback continuation properly serving broader disability community.
