Message from the Mayor

Posted: April 28, 2020

In spite of continuing to receive daily reports of new confirmed cases of COVID-19 among Randolph residents, there is reason to be cautiously optimistic. The number of new cases reported over the last 2 weeks has been trending downward and there is evidence that we are “flattening the curve.” Our social distancing efforts appear to be working. That is good news and everyone should be congratulated for doing their part by staying home and social distancing.

New Jersey is behind only New York in terms of states that have been hit the hardest with COVID-19. This past week Governor Murphy pointed out that the loss of lives in New Jersey due to COVID-19 now exceeds those lost in World War I, the Korean War and the Vietnam War combined. That is certainly a significant and sobering statistic.

As we know, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our own community. In Randolph, we now have 242 confirmed cases of COVID-19 infection. Eighteen members of the Randolph community have passed away due to COVID-19 infections and 11 residents are currently hospitalized. Fortunately, 115 residents are no longer symptomatic and are on the road to recovery.

Beyond the health impact of the pandemic, many of our residents are experiencing economic hardships due to layoffs and business closures. This financial fallout from the pandemic is taking its toll on our community. Today, the governor issued an executive order which established the Governor’s Restart and Recovery Commission that will provide guidance for a phased-in reopening of the New Jersey economy. This is good news.

In the meantime, however, one way we can all help our neighbors is to donate to local foodbanks that are trying to meet the increased needs during this unprecedented time. The Randolph Food Pantry is operated by the Randolph Township Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department, located at 30 Calais Road. For those who are able, please consider donating nonperishable food items. Suggested items are listed here. At this time, the Randolph Food Pantry is also accepting financial donations as well as store gift cards that will be used by staff to purchase perishable items which would not normally be available in our pantry.

Residents are asked to drop off non-perishable food donations directly in the donation bin located in the foyer of the community center during office hours, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Please be sure that the expiration dates are current. Residents needing to drop off donations outside of normal office hours or seeking to make financial contributions to the food pantry should call community services at 973.989.7084. All residents who need food assistance are encouraged to call the Randolph Food Pantry at 973.989.7084 during office hours.

Thanks for your support and patience during this challenging time.

Stay safe,
Mayor Christine Carey
April 17, 2020