Ocean County, which has more than 200,000 senior residents, has received national recognition for its efforts to provide services that help older adults maintain independence and stay engaged in the community. The Public Library Association honored the Ocean County Library and the Ocean County Office of Senior Services for their collaborative programs serving seniors.
The recognition comes as nearly a quarter of Ocean County’s population is made up of older adults. The partnership between the library and senior services office aims to connect residents with information, support services, and enrichment opportunities through programs offered at library branches throughout the county. This collaboration seeks to improve accessibility, strengthen community ties, and enhance quality of life for seniors.
“With nearly 24 percent of Ocean County’s population made up of older adults, we have a responsibility to ensure services are coordinated, accessible and responsive to their needs,” said Ocean County Commissioner Robert S. Arace, liaison to the Office of Senior Services. “This recognition reflects our ongoing effort to connect residents with meaningful programs that support independence, engagement and quality of life.”
Commissioner Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Library, highlighted the role libraries play in connecting people with needed services. “Our libraries serve as welcoming community centers for residents of all ages, and through collaboration, they allow us to better connect people with the services they need,” said Bacchione. “We are proud of the work being done to strengthen these connections and better serve Ocean County’s senior population.”
Maria La Face, Director of the Ocean County Office of Senior Services, noted that partnerships bring important resources directly into local communities. “This recognition affirms the importance of partnerships that ensure older adults remain informed, engaged and supported throughout Ocean County,” La Face said.
The Board of Commissioners congratulated both departments on this achievement. Through this joint effort, seniors across Ocean County can access programs that keep them connected and active.
Ocean County provides a range of programs including senior assistance, parks and recreation activities, health initiatives, consumer support services and transportation options aimed at improving community life (https://www.co.ocean.nj.us/). The county operates under a Board of Commissioners led by Director John P. Kelly along with other commissioners (https://www.co.ocean.nj.us/), serving residents across New Jersey from administrative offices located in Toms River (https://www.co.ocean.nj.us/).
Residents interested in learning more about available programs can visit theoceancountylibrary.org or contact their local library branch. Information about senior services is available at co.ocean.nj.us/OC/SeniorServices/ or by calling 732-929-2091.
