SOMERVILLE –  People with disabilities, their caregivers, family members, friends and the public are invited to the 6th Annual Somerset County Disability Services Expo Thursday, Oct. 16, from 3 to 6:30 p.m. in Conference Room 1 at the county Human Services Building, located at 27 Warren St., Somerville NJ 08876. 

“This annual event brings providers and consumers together in an exhibition setting to increase awareness of resources available to Somerset County residents with disabilities,” said Freeholder Robert Zaborowski, human services liaison. “In difficult economic times such as these, it’s essential that people learn about available services so they can take advantage of them.”

The Somerset County Office on Aging and Disability Services is hosting the expo, which is FREE to providers and consumers.  It will enable organizations to meet with consumers and talk about services they provide.  In addition, providers will have an opportunity to share new services and resources with each other to further benefit consumers.

For the first time this year, participants will be able to have their blood pressure checked and can receive a flu shot.  The shots are free to anyone with Medicare B medical coverage and $25 for people without Medicare coverage.  These services will be provided by the VNA of Somerset Hills and Community VNA of Somerville.

Representatives will be available from many agencies providing assistance for individuals with physical, mental and developmental disabilities.  Agencies expected to participate include the Tourettes Syndrome Association; Adult Day Care Center; The ARC of Somerset County, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation; Catholic Charities; Alternatives Inc.; Easter Seals Society; Division of Developmental Disabilities; Raritan Valley Community College; Matheny Center; Alliance Center for Independent Living; and the Social Security Administration. 

Representatives from various county offices, including the Transportation Division, Richard Hall Community Mental Health Center, Volunteer Services, Veterans Services, Community Development, Office on Aging and Disability Services and the Board of Social Services also will be on hand to provide information.