It’s been a long stressful pandemic year. We can all agree on that. But for New Jersey’s adult community with special needs and their caregivers, the challenges are mounting. Aside from six weeks last fall, the state’s day programs for residents with disabilities remain closed, along with the services, therapy and socialization that goes with them. Officials say the COVID-19 activity levels haven’t decreased enough for safe reopening. Families and advocates argue that this decision is adding to their hardship.

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