Burlington Review

The Burlington County Commissioners are urging seniors in the area to utilize the various services and programs designed to support them and their families. Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson provided an overview of these services at the Holiday Village 55+ community in Mount Laurel. She also highlighted the county's efforts to maintain affordability.

"Burlington County strives to make a difference for every resident. We do that in multiple ways and with several different offices and programs," said Hopson, who is linked with the Burlington County Department of Human Services and the Office on Aging. "One of the most important ways we assist seniors is by prioritizing affordability. We want residents to be able to afford to move here and to remain here when they retire."

Hopson referred to New Jersey Department of Community Affairs property tax data, indicating that Burlington County had the lowest average county tax in New Jersey from 2019 through 2023, comprising less than 15% of all residential property taxes during those years.

The upcoming release of 2024 data is anticipated soon.

Office on Aging Division Head Bryan Barnes joined Hopson at Holiday Village, where they addressed residents' questions and shared details about several senior-focused programs:

Burlington County Meals on Wheels serves homebound seniors and disabled residents, delivering over 120,000 meals last year. The program welcomes residents aged 60 or older who are homebound. For more information, call 609-702-7053.

Congregate Nutrition Sites offer lunches for seniors aged 60 or older at four locations: Carslake Community Center in Bordentown City; First Baptist Church of Beverly; Samuel Miller Building in Mount Holly; and Bethel AME Church in Moorestown. These sites provide opportunities for social interaction among participants.

Home Security and Safety Inspections are conducted by experts from the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office for seniors and disabled residents, offering free safety evaluations and installations such as smoke detectors.

Property Fraud Alert by the Burlington County Clerk’s Office provides early warnings about suspicious activities involving title property fraud. Residents can register online or call for this optional service.

Other available services include free pet adoptions from the Burlington County Animal Shelter, free classes like chair yoga, country line dancing, nature walks, history courses, art exhibits through Burlington County Parks, vouchers for fresh produce at local farmers markets for income-eligible seniors, light housekeeping assistance, caregiver respite, and in-home health aide services.

Residents can find more information about these offerings from the Burlington County Office on Aging online or by contacting them directly at 609-265-5069.

"Burlington County is a premier destination for residents of all ages," stated Hopson. "The services we provide seniors help them live active and healthy lives here."