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Barnstable County Human Services 
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In This Issue
Department's Corner
February - Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
Financial Literacy Workshop
BLBSMA Community Impact Grant
Project Impact
Youth Education & Support Program
Public Hearing: Elder Needs
LGBT Elders in a Changing World
Making Connections: LGBT local conference
Family-To-Family Education Program
Transition from Combat to Home
Local Heroes Recognition Breakfast
Earned Income Tax Credit
Family Pantry Seeks Volunteers
Portuguese Interpretor Needed
Mashpee Housing Assistance Program
Alzheimer's News
Suicide Prevention Training Calendar
Miles of Memories Walk
MASS 2-1-1
Veterans Crisis Hotline
Healthy Connected Cape Cod
Samaritans Survivor Support Group
Homelessness Crisis Hotline
E-Newsletter Article Submissions
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ISSUE: 55

February 17, 2012 

Greetings!

Welcome to the information E-Newsletter from Barnstable County Department of Human Services.  This newsletter is designed to provide timely information on health and human service topics of interest for people living and working in Barnstable County. _____________________________________________________________________________
DEPARTMENT'S CORNER

Healthy Food on Pantry Shelves Project

On January 27th, Barnstable County Department of Human Services (BCHS) hosted the first annual celebration for the Cape Cod Hunger Network's Healthy Foods on Pantry Shelves Project (aka Stop & Shop project). More than 60 people who help with this project attended the event, including staff and consumers from Cape Abilities, Seven Hills, and Transitions Centers; Stop & Shop store managers; food pantry staff and volunteers; and staff from the County's Cape Cod Cooperative Extension and Departments of Health and Environment and Human Services.  

 

During the celebration, the Hunger Network and its partners recognized Christine Stein (BCHS staff member) for her extraordinary efforts on behalf the project. Brenda Swain and Mary Anderson, the Hunger Network co-chairs, presented Christine with a certificate of appreciation saying: "There is healthy food on pantry shelves and new volunteers with special relationships developed all over Cape Cod thanks to her dedication." Christine thanked the event attendees for the opportunity to work as a partner on this project, and for the hard work and commitment of all involved. Brenda and Mary also presented certificates of appreciation to the non-profit organizations and their consumers and to Stop & Shop.

 

For more information about the project, please see the article The Cape Cod Hunger Network Initiative: Healthy Foods on Pantry Shelves on the Department's website under Reports and Publications. www.bchumanservices.net  

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FEBRUARY - TEEN DATING VIOLENCE PREVENTION & AWARENESS MONTH

Throughout February organizations and individuals nationwide are coming together to highlight the need to educate young people about relationships, teach healthy relationship skills and prevent the devastating cycle of abuse.  For more information about domestic violence services, support groups, youth programs and more visit Independence House's website and read more about Teen dating violence prevention in their February newsletter.

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FINANCIAL LITERACY WORKSHOP

The Federal Trade Commission is hosting a training workshop on financial literacy in Boston on February 21st from 2:00 - 4:30 pm in the Boston Public Library's Orientation Glass Room, 700 Boylston St. It's mainly for Congressional Staff, but they have enough room for providers as well, so if you or anyone from your staff is interested, we'd be happy to reserve a slot for you. Contact Stefanie Coxe, District Representative for Congressman Keating's office at 508/771-0666 to reserve a spot.  Please feel free to forward to anyone in your respective networks you think may be interested.  Read more ... about this Federal Trade Commission Consumer Education Workshop.

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BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD MASSACHUSSETTS COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT

To mark BCBSMA's 75th year and to continue to advance the strategic priorities of our corporate citizenship, community stakeholders will be invited to apply for one of three to five $75,000 grants that will advance the health and nutrition of families facing economic hardship.  These investments seek to drive sustainable impact on the lives of families most at risk in this economic downturn. Complete and submit the Letter of Inquiry - deadline date: February 29, 2012Read more grant details.....  For questions contact Yvonne Tang at yvonne.tang@bcbsma.com or 617/246-3332.

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PROJECT IMPACT

Join the Cape Organization for Rights of the Disabled (CORD) on Thursday, March 1, 2012 from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at CORD's office at 106 Bassett Lane in Hyannis to learn about the impact of going back to work while receiving SSDI or SSI benefits.

 

Marilyn Reale, a benefits specialist with Project Impact of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) will explain how SSI and SSDI are calculated, work incentives, the Ticket to Work program, how working may impact your eligibility for Medicare and MassHealth and more.

 

RSVPs requested. Requests for reasonable accommodations must be made by Wednesday, February 23rd by contacting CORD at 508-775-8300 or

1-800-541-0282 (both numbers v/tty) or cordinfo@cilcapecod.org.

 

CORD attempts to maintain a scent-free environment that is safe and comfortable for all. We request that you refrain from wearing perfume, cologne and other scented products whenever you visit CORD's office.

 

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YOUTH EDUCATION & SUPPORT PROGRAM (Y.E.S.)

Say Y.E.S. to Youth Education Support about current teen topics young people want to discuss and know more about.  The Barnstable Youth Services Division would like to invite  teens to the next Y.E.S. program for a discussion about "The Dangers & Risks of Teen Drinking & Alcoholism" on Friday, March 2nd, 4:45 - 6:30 PM in the United Cultures Room at the Hyannis Youth and Community Center.

 

For more information contact:  Sally-Ann Imes, M.Ed., Town of Barnstable  Youth Services Division at 508/790-6345 ext 109 or by email at sally-aann.imes@town.barnstable.ma.us

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PUBLIC HEARING: NEEDS OF ELDERLY RESIDENTS AND CAREGIVERS

The Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council of Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands, Inc. will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, March 8, 2012 from 10:00AM to 11:30AM in their offices at 68 Route 134, South Dennis, MA to receive public comment on the needs of elderly residents and their caregivers in Barnstable County. The information received will help in planning for the distribution of federal Older Americans Act funds for Fiscal Year 2013. If you are unable to attend and would like to comment, please write Patricia Hart/Director of Community Services, Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands, Inc., 68 Route 134, South Dennis, MA 02660 or call at 1-800-244-4630, Ext. 103.

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LGBT ELDERS IN A CHANGING WORLD

An interdisciplinary practice and policy conference for working with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender older adults and caregivers scheduled for Friday, March 16, 2012 from 8:30 am - 4:00 pm at Salem State University School of Social Work, Marsh Conference Center, Central Campus, Salem,  Massachusetts.  Cost:  $95 includes conference and lunch; $45 for seniors (60+) and students with current student ID; $30 for 4.5 Social Work CEU's.  Registration or for more information contact Rhonda Gauthier at 978/624-2220 or rgauthier@nselder.org.

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MAKING CONNECTIONS:  A DAY OF EDUCATION & INSPIRATION

Local Conference for LGBT persons is scheduled for March 17, 2012 from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm at St. David's Episcopal Church, 205 Old Main St., South Yarmouth. Presentations include:  Panel on Aging, Harwich Junior Theatre Drama on Bullying Prevention, Interfaith worship (small groups).  Cost: $25 - includes morning refreshments & lunch.  Sponsored by the Cape Coalition of Welcoming Congregations.  For more information contact Anny or Judy at Healthsigns Center at 508/375-0700 or by email at starfish@massmed.org

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FAMILY-TO-FAMILY EDUCATION PROGRAM

NAMI Cape Cod Course offering: Family-To-Family Education Program.  This is a FREE 12-week course beginning Tuesday, March 20, 2012 from 6:30 - 9:00 pm in Falmouth. This course is designed for loved ones of individuals with mental illness to help caregivers provide understanding and support while maintaining their own well being.  The course is taught by trained family member volunteers. 

 

For more information or to register call the NAMI Cape Cod Office at 508/778-4277 or by email at info@namicapecod.org.

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BATTLEMIND ~ TRANSITIONING FROM COMBAT TO HOME

The "military mindset" of a service member is oftentimes not easily understood by their civilian counterparts.  Understanding the reintegration process of a returned service member is often difficult without understanding the transition they are making from soldier to civilian.

 

Kevin Lambert of the Massachusetts Dept. of Veterans services presents B.A.T.T.L.E.M.I.N.D, a workshop that will provide a better understanding of the psychological and social stressors endured by service members both during deployment and upon returning home.  Workshop is scheduled for March 28, 2012 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at the Hyannis Transportation Center Conference Room, 215 Iyannough Rd, Hyannis.  This event is sponsored by the Cape & Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition and is FREE and open to the public. Read more ...

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AMERICAN RED CROSS & UNITED WAY LOCAL HEROES RECOGNITION

The American Red Cross, Cape Cod & Islands Chapter and the Cape & Islands United Way announce the local Heroes who will be honored at the 10th Annual Heroes Breakfast.  The event will be held at the Resort & Conference Center in Hyannis on March 30, 2012 from 7 - 9:00 am.  Tickets and sponsorships are available at www.cciredcross.org or www.uwcapecod.org, by calling 508/775-4746 or by writing to Cape & islands United Way, 749 Main St., Hyannis ma  02601.

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EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT

Individuals and families that earned  less than $49,078 in 2011  may be eligible to receive a tax credit of up to $5,751 this year!  The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, provides tax credits to working adults and families with low or moderate incomes.  People  may be eligible for this tax credit even if they receive government benefits like Social Security or unemployment benefits, or other income like child support or alimony, since these are not considered to be earned income.  About 1 in 4 people who are eligible for the EITC fail to claim it every year, leaving nearly $13 billion dollars unclaimed!  

 

The IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and the Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Programs offer free tax help for taxpayers who qualify.  Read more ...

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THE FAMILY PANTRY OF CAPE COD SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

The Family Pantry of Cape Cod is seeking volunteers on Mondays and Saturdays to help in efforts to provide food and clothing to those in need throughout Cape Cod.  Four (4) warehouse volunteer positions available on Mondays and several volunteer positions open on Saturdays to meet the increased demand for services.  Please contact Patty Watson, Assistant Director at 508/432-6519 or pwatson@thefamilypantry.com.

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PORTUGUESE/ENGLISH INTERPRETER NEEDED AT CAREGIVER HOMES

Caregiver Homes is a community-based care option for nursing home-eligible seniors and disabled adults.  Caregiver Homes has a need for a Portuguese/English Interpreter to provide interpreting services for non-English speaking clients and families on Cape Cod.  Interpreter will accompany a nurse and/or care manager during client home visits as well as provide assistance in obtaining information via telephone or written correspondence.

 

Required:  high school diploma, certified professional Interpreter/Translator certificate, fluent reading, writing and speaking English and Portuguese, the ability to travel via car in and around a designated geographical region, proficient computer skills, demonstrated interpersonal relationship skills, valid MA drivers license.

 

Please email resume and cover letter to mspengler@caregiverhomes.com and note "Interpreter" in the subject area.

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MASHPEE HOUSING AUTHORITY TO LAUNCH $300,000 ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FOR VETERANS AND OTHERS

The Mashpee Housing Authority announces that it has received approval for a three-year, $300,000 Housing Assistance Program to provide five different types of housing assistance for veterans and other families.  The funding, approved by the Mashpee Community Preservation Committee, will enable the Housing Authority to offer needed assistance to families who might not otherwise qualify for public housing or rental voucher programs.  The Housing Assistance Program will give 100 percent preference to veterans and their families or surviving families.  Read more ...

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EOHHS RECOMMENDATIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS & FAMILIES AFFECTED BY ALZHEIMER'S

The State Executive Office of  Health and Human Services (EOHHS) and the Executive Office of Elder Affairs (EOEA) released Massachusetts Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders State Plan Recommendations, a comprehensive plan to help patients, families and caregivers manage Alzheimer's in the Commonwealth.  The report offers recommendations, resources, goals and strategies to improve the quality of life for individuals and families affected by the disease.  The recommendations also identify ways to minimize the public and private cost of Alzheimer's.  Read more ...

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MA DPH SUICIDE PREVENTION TRAINING CALENDAR

New trainings are now posted on the MDPH Suicide Prevention Training Calendar.  Space is limited and workshops fill up quickly, so please register before the dealines posted.

 

Share the link and check back for new trainings that will be added.

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MILES OF MEMORIES WALK

SAVE THE DATE:  Sunday, May 6th: Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket & Hyannis

                          Sunday, May 20th: Buzzards Bay/Canal, Harwich & Provincetown

 

This year will represent the 20th Annual Miles of Memories Walk for Alzheimer's Srvices of Cape Cod & the Islands.  The walk is the largest outreach effort and fundraising initiative for Alzheimer's Services of C&I.  In addition to Walk Teams ASCCI is looking for committee members to help with coordination in several areas:  Walk Teams, Food Donations and Entertainment Planning.  If you would like to join a committee contact Catherine Oldham at 508/775-5656 or by email at catherine@alzcapecod.org.  You can register online with EXPRESS REGISTRATION for quick and easy pre-registration.

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MASS 2-1-1 RESOURCE LOCATOR
Is your organization listed on 2-1-1?  If not, take some time and list it today!
  • Do you provide health or human services on Cape Cod or the Islands?
  • Does the public know what services you provide?
  • Do people know how to access your services?
  • Do you need assistance in finding services for your clients?
~ Is your organization listed on Mass 2-1-1?  If not, let us know.
~ Not sure how to use 2-1-1?  It's easy - call us for free training.
~ Want to learn how to create your own directory of resources?
  
MASS 2-1-1 is a free, confidential, 24/7 information and referral database and hotline for access to health and human services for consumers and providers.  Multi-lingual translations are also available.  The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has designated it as the official point of contact for receiving emergency information during a time of crisis.  

MASS 2-1-1 is a project supported by the Barnstable County Department of Human Services in partnership with the Cape & Islands United Way. 

For more information contact the Barnstable County Dept. of Human Services at kcallahan@barnstablecounty.org or call 508/375-6626 or ronniegullette@comcast.net or call 508/277-3008.  To locate services dial 211 or 1-877-211-MASS on your telephone or go to www.mass211help.org
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VETERANS CRISIS HOTLINE

The Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, Press 1) is available 24/7/365 to provide confidential counseling and referrals for Veterans and their families.  This is an integrated national outreach effort to increase awareness and use of the Veterans Crisis Line, support and promote broader VA suicide prevention efforts, and promote help-seeking behaviors among Veterans at risk of suicide and other mental health problems.  For more information about the Veterans Crisis Line please click here.

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HEALTHY CONNECTED CAPE COD
The "Healthy Connected Cape Cod" project promotes opportunities to access good, nutritious food and to share the abundance of this food with neighbors and friends.
Goals:
  • Support existing programs and practices that encourage happy and healthy eating
  • Increase awareness of and participation in food-centered activities
  • Increase healthy food options at all Cape Cod food pantries
  • Promote community-driven advocacy and public education around healthy and happy eating.

To learn more visit http://www.bchumanservices.net/ or contact Beth Albert at Tel: 508/375-6626 

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SAMARITAN SURVIVOR SUPPORT GROUPS
Over 800,000 people worldwide end their lives annually.  Seven to ten people -- parents, children, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents, grandchildren and close friends -- deeply feel the devastation of each loss.  
That means that approximately 5 million "survivors" are left behind every year.
Samaritans has expanded the number of sites on the Cape & Islands for their survivor support groups including Falmouth, Hyannis and Nantucket.  These groups honor and respect the needs of the survivors, provide unconditional emotional support, help survivors gain courage and comfort from one another, and deal with a unique grief that is often not understood by others.

For more information contact the Samaritans office at Tel: 508/548-7999
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HOMELESSNESS CRISIS HOTLINE
Serving individuals & families in the communities of Barnstable County, Martha's Vineyard & Nantucket who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.  Immediate local emergency housing, food and transportation available.  Referral to the right resources for assistance, assessment and on-going support. If you or someone you know, are in crisis and have no place to stay tonight, call the  Crisis Hotline at 1-888-656-2233 to connect with an experienced advocate who can arrange local overnight emergency housing until the next business day.  You will meet with an advocate the following day to help you access available resources and supportive services.
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E-NEWSLETTER ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS
 To submit materials, please include the following information:
  • Descriptive Title
  • Brief Description of the Content (the who, what, why, when, where) 
  • Attachments must be submitted in PDF and text format (either DOC or RTF files are acceptable)
  • Weblink or Hyperlink if available 
  • Contact information of the person submitting the information and if appropriate, the contact person for the event (include name, address, phone, TTY, email)
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Posting of articles submitted for publication in the Barnstable County Human Services Newsletter is at the discretion of the Department.  All articles must be submitted in text format to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.  To request this newsletter in alternate formats, please call Kathie at 508-375-6628 or TDD at 508-362-5885.