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In This Issue
Health & Dental Insurance Open Enrollment
SHINE Program
Cuts in SNAP Benefits
CISPC Event & Training Coordinator Open position
News from the Barnstable Senior Center
A Place at the Table
Shape the Cape Survey
Great American SmokeOut
Thanksgiving Baskets for Cape Codders
International Survivors of Suicide Day
News from the Boys & Girls Club
Youth Networking Meeting
DPH Community Dialogues
Let's Talk Open Mic Phone Calls
Relaxation Tools & Techniques
International Human Rights Day Breakfast
Compensation & Benefits Survey
Mass 211 offers Mental Health Screenings Online
Income Tax Assistance Program
VNA - Navigator Pilot Project
Online Resource Directory
MASS 2-1-1
Veterans Crisis Hotline
Samaritans Survivor Support Group
E-Newsletter Article Submissions
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ISSUE: 101

November 15, 2013 


 
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.  For additional information visit the Department website at bchumanservices.net
OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR NEW HEALTH & DENTAL INSURANCE

Open Enrollment for New Health

and Dental Insurance

 

Massachusetts residents can now apply for health and dental insurance during open enrollment: October 1, 2013 - March 31, 2014.  There are new plans and new ways to get help paying for health insurance.  Commonwealth Care consumers must re-enroll in new coverage.

 

Locally, Community Action Committee of Cape Cod & the Islands is available to inform and assist individuals on how they may qualify for affordable health coverage and help with enrollment in new programs or re-enrollment in existing programs.  To set up an appointment or for more information contact CACCI at 508/771-1727 or walk in at 372 North St., Hyannis.

 

Individuals can also seek enrollment assistance online at MAhealthconnector.org or call 1-877-623-6765 for questions, help completing an application, and a list of Navigators in your area. 

 SHINE PROGRAM

Medicare Open Enrollment Presentations

  

SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) is a statewide program made available through the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs to provide free and unbiased counseling services for Medicare beneficiaries, their family members, caregivers and representatives. Certified SHINE counselors are available at local senior centers and other locations throughout the Cape and Islands.

  

Medicare's Open Enrollment period starts on October 15th and ends on December 7th for 2014 plan choices.  The Cape and Islands Regional SHINE Program is offering community presentations to explain Medicare coverage options, plus plan costs and changes for 2014.  For more information and a listing of Senior Centers on Cape Cod and presentation dates, times and registration telephone #'s click here Advanced registration is required.

 

The SHINE program will continue to operate at the Yarmouth COA, Monday - Friday from 9 am - 3 pm until the office moves to the County Complex in Barnstable Village within the next few weeks.  

 

The Regional office can be reached at 508/394-9326
SNAP BENEFITS DECLINE AS OF NOVEMBER 1, 2013

Cuts in SNAP benefits go into effect on November 1, 2013, so the SNAP benefit amount will be less in November and each month after.  This is a permanent benefit cut. 

 

SNAP benefits are based on monthly income and expenses and household size.  Actual benefit cuts will vary according to individual households.

 

For more information view flyer in English and Spanish.

EVENT & TRAINING COORDINATOR POSITION OPENING FOR THE C&I SUICIDE PREVENTION COALITION

The Cape and Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition (CISPC) seeks an Event and Training Coordinator to assist in organizing community education outreach events, suicide prevention trainings, and other related activities between January 1st - June 30th, 2014.  The individual awarded this contract is an independent contractor, not an employee of the CISPC, and is responsible for all taxes and insurance.  Travel and expenses are included in the negotiated hourly rate.  This position will average 10-13 hours per week, and reports to the Co-Chairs of the CISPC.  Read more ...

If interested, please submit your resume and cover letter detailing how your prior experience relates to the job duties as described.  Be sure to include two references, as well as a cost proposal with an hourly rate and email to:
SuicidePrevention@CapeCoalition.com

Jessica McHugh and Ron Holmes, Co-Chairs

Responses must be received no later than Tuesday, December 3, 2013. 

COMMUNITY HEALTH NEEDS ASSESSMENT REPORT NOW AVAILABLE

The Cape Cod Hospital and Falmouth Hospital Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) Report and Implementation Plan for Fiscal Years 2014 - 2016 is now available.  It can be downloaded from Cape Cod Healthcare's website: www.capecodhealth.org/who-we-are/community/community-benefits/

 

Features of the CHNA Report and Plan include:

 

  • Data on the health status of Barnstable County residents with accurate comparisons to state and national benchmarks
  • Identified significant health needs and vulnerable populations
  • Community Benefits programs, hospital planning activities and community assets available to address significant health needs
NEWS FROM THE BARNSTABLE SENIOR CENTER
  • November is National Caregiver's Month Caregiver's Series: Ca
    ring for the Caregiver: Recognizing the Signs of Burnout scheduled for November 19, 4:30 - 6:00 PM.  RSVP for this free event at 508/862-4750.
  • Fuel Assistance Applications Available:  Now is the time to apply for fuel assistance for the winter of 2013-2014.  If you had fuel assistance last winter you should have received a renewal application.  New applicants must make an appointment to meet with a qualified staff member to complete the application at the Senior Center, 825 Falmouth Road, Hyannis or by calling 508/862-4754 or 508/862-4752.
  • Volunteer Opportunities:  Drive for the Silver Express Van Service to transport residents to appointments, the grocery store and other local errands.  Call Judy Redd at 508/862-4752 for more information.  Become a trained SHINE volunteer to help seniors understand Medicare and other health insurance options available to them. Call Donna Burns at 508/862-4753 for more information. Other opportunities include: Activity Coordinator office support, Assist with the Adult Supportive Day group, or the Brown Bag Food Program.
A PLACE AT THE TABLE
On  November 17, at 3pm, the Wellfleet Public Library will hold a screening of "A Place at the Table," an eye-opening documentary about hunger in America today. The film follows three people who are struggling with "food insecurity"--another way of saying they don't know where their next meal is coming from, and a reality shared by some 40 million Americans including one in four children. It includes insights from experts and activists on the gap between the nation's production capacity and the availability of healthy, affordable food.
 
"It's a thought provoking movie," says librarian Elaine McIroy, who adds, "I think it will get us talking about what can be done and why doing something matters to us all." Directed by Kristi Jacobson and Lori Silverbush, 84 minutes. Sunday November 17, 2014, 3:00 p.m. at the Wellfleet Public Library. Free. If you can, bring a donation of nonperishable, healthy food for our Lower Cape food pantries.
SHAPE THE CAPE SURVEY

Cape Cod is a great place to raise a family, however, real challenges face the next generation of Cape Cod's workforce and residents.  From 2000 to 2010 there was a 26 percent decline in Barnstable County residents between the ages of 25 to 44.  If current trends continue, Cape Cod communities could experience a vacuum of wealth in culture, spirit and revenue.

 

The Cape Cod Young Professionals have launched a survey which aims to create a plan to identify priorities to be addressed to improve the lives of Cape Codders and grow the 25-44 demographic.  Please take the Shape the Cape survey and be entered for a chance to win one month's rent or mortgage payment up to $2,000.

GREAT AMERICAN SMOKEOUT 

The Great American Smokeout, launched in 1976 by the American Cancer Society, will be celebrated on November 21st.  Many free resources are available to help you quit and many health insurance plans cover FDA-approved medicines and counseling. Read more ...

 

For more information regarding local tobacco cessation services in your area contact Judith Coykendall at 508/995-3026, ext. 4002 or jcoykendall@sevenhills.org

THANKSGIVING BASKETS FOR CAPE CODDERS

Community Action Committee of the C&I needs your help for those less fortunate during the season of gratitude.  Last year they provided 210 needy families with a very special holiday meal.  The need on Cape Cod continues.

 

There are several ways you can adopt a local family who will be very grateful for the generosity of their fellow Cape Codders.  Collection of donated food & gift cards will run November 20th - November 23rd from 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM daily. Read more ...  To sign up complete a commitment form on www.cacci.cc or contact Stefanie Coxe at CACCI at 508/771-1727 or stefanie.coxe@cacci.cc

INTERNATIONAL SURVIVORS OF SUICIDE DAY

International Survivors of Suicide Day will be held on Cape Cod on Saturday, November 23rd at Community Health Center of Cape Cod, 107 Commercial St., Mashpee from 12 Noon - 4:00 PM.  Lunch will be served.  A day of healing and support for those bereaved by suicide.  View flyer.  For more information and to register contact Maura Weir, yspp@chcofcapecod.org or 774/392-5420.

 

Event sponsored by the C&I Suicide Prevention Coalition, Community Health Center of Cape Cod, C&I Youth Suicide Prevention Project, & the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  Funded by the MA Department of Public Health.

NEWS FROM THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF CAPE COD
  • Beginning the weekend of November 9th, the Club will be open on Saturdays from 10-4.  This is a free service for members of all ages.
  • Starting December 2nd and ending January 17th except for Holiday vacation, the CLUB will be offering Homework Help & Free Tutoring along with daily fitness activities.
  • The club will be hosting it's Child & Family Thanksgiving dinner for members on Friday, November 22nd at 5:00 PM.  Let the Club know if you will be attending. 

NOTE:  The Boys & Girls Club will be closed on November 28th & 29th (Thanksgiving and the day after) but will be open from 10-4 on Saturday November 30th.

 

For more information on programs and activities or to make a donation to help provide programs and services to local children visit the Boys and Girls Club of Cape cod website.

YOUTH NETWORKING MEETING & LUNCHEON

Mass Mentoring Partnership (MMP) and the Cape Cod Foundation invite you to join us and youth development organizations for our fall networking lunch to learn more about MMP and how we work with programs to fuel the mentoring movement across Massachusetts.  Guests will network over lunch in an intimate setting, and learn more about MMP services, as well as growing or starting new mentoring programs.

 

This is a free networking session, but you must register. Lunch is provided.

 

Date & time: Dec. 4, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Hyannis Youth & Community Center, 141 Bassett Lane, Hyannis

 

To RSVP: Email or call Greg Brennan at 617.695.2477

 

DPH COMMUNITY DIALOGUES WITH THE COMMISSIONER 

Department of Public Health Commissioner Cheryl Bartlett is planing a series of Community Dialogues.  Two events are scheduled for the Southeast Region on Friday, December 6, 2013:  New Bedford, Fort Taber Community Center, from 10-11:30 AM and Barnstable, Harborview Conference Room in the Barnstable County Complex, from 2:30 - 4:00 PM.

THE CAPE ORGANIZATION FOR RIGHTS OF THE DISABLED OFFERS "LET'S TALK" OPEN MIC PHONE CALLS
CORD invites you to join its open mic phone calls every Monday through Friday, 1-3 p.m.  Help build a community of people with disabilities, family, friends and caregivers through a support system that allows you to share your stories while gaining information on things that matter to you. View flyer or call CORD at 508/775-8300 for more information.
RELAXATION TOOLS & TECHNIQUES CLASS
We all need a little help with relaxation around the holidays. Please join me for my upcoming class series, which will continue through December.

Relaxation Tools & Techniques
Beginning December 5
Thursdays 7:00-9:00 pm
TRY ONE CLASS FOR FREE!

 

Excellent for seasonal mood changes. Come learn mind/body approaches for sleep disturbances, generalized anxiety, panic, stress and particularly helpful for energy and mood fluctuations due to seasonal changes. Open to all levels of experience.

For more information, please call 508-362-4435 or email jackie@corsoyogatherapy.com

2013 INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY BREAKFAST

Barnstable County Human Rights Commission invites you tot he 2013 International Human Rights Day Breakfast on Tuesday, December 10, 2013 at 8:00 AM at the Brazilian Grill, 680 Main St. Hyannis.  The breakfast is free but seating is limited.  Please RSVP by December 7th at 508/375-6912 or hrc@barnstablecounty.orgView flyer.

 

The Human Rights Commission seeks award nominees for the Cornerstone Award and the Rosenthal Community Champion Award.  Do you know someone who has put extra effort into ensuring human rights for his or her neighbors?  If so, the Barnstable County Human Rights Commission would like to hear about it.

Read more ...

CAPE COD ORGANIZATIONS ENCOURAGED TO PARTICIPATE IN NEW COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS SURVEY

The Cape Cod Foundation is partnering with Third Sector New England on a new employee compensation and benefits survey designed to provide data on current nonprofit pay and benefits practices across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. And we need your help to make this effort a success.

 

Please help us collect the most current and comprehensive compensation data possible by completing the Valuing Our Nonprofit Workforce survey.

Read more ...

LED STREETLIGHT PROGRAM

Over 17,000 municipal owned streetlights on Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard will soon be changed from high-pressure sodium ("orange glow lights") to light emitting diodes (LED), as part of Cape Light Compact's 2013-2015 Statewide Energy Efficiency Plan. There will be no co-pay to the 24 participating communities (towns and fire districts) for these energy efficient streetlights. This is the largest municipal LED streetlight changeover in the northeast!

 

This project is estimated to save the communities more than $520,000 on their annual electric bill.  In the first quarter 2013, CLC installed LED streetlights at various test locations. There are some that can be seen right up the road from the County Complex at the intersection of Route 6A and Hyannis Road, and on Hyannis Road/Phinney's Lane near the Barnstable Water Department.

 

To learn more about the project, please visit www.capelightcompact.org/ledstreetlights 

NEWS FROM HOPE HEALTH
Seashells are beautiful, strong and ever present...much like our memories of loved ones here and those who have passed away. This holiday season, I invite you to participate in Hope Hospice's (formerly Hospice & Palliative Care of Cape Cod, Island Hospice and Hospice of Boston and Greater Brockton) twenty-third annual Tree of MemoriesThroughout our community trees will be adorned with scallop shell ornaments inscribed with the names of loved ones being remembered. Please click here for a listing of locations and Remembrance Ceremony dates and times. This heartfelt tradition offers you a unique opportunity to pay tribute to someone special, while helping us care for patients and their families in need of hospice today.  Click to Donate Now to request your shell or call (508) 957-0254.

 

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month.  HopeHealth has been recognized as a We Honor Veterans Partner, a pioneering campaign developed by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs.  Read more ...

MASS 211 OFFERS MENTAL HEALTH SCREENINGS ONLINE

Mass 211 is offering free, anonymous mental health screenings online.  This program is an an easy way for people to monitor their mental health and learn about local treatment options.  Although online screenings are not diagnostic, they do provide valuable insight helping to identify if someone is exhibiting symptoms association with depression and other mood disorders and if they should seek help.  Read more ...

VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Volunteers are needed for VITA - the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program through Community Action Committee of Cape Cod & Islands.  This program provides free service to assist clients with filing their 2013 income taxes.  No experience necessary, free training offered.  View flyer for more information or call Mellisa Carney at 508/771-1727 ext 132.
NAVIGATOR PILOT PROJECT 

The purpose of the project is to improve access to information and the coordination and delivery of home based long term services and supports for residents of Cape Cod aged 18 and over who have chronic health conditions and disabilities, regardless of income.  The Navigator Pilot does not duplicate existing programs and services and is FREE.  To be connected to a Navigator call 508/957-7629.  Click to download program flyers for the community and for professionals.

BARNSTABLE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES ON-LINE RESOURCE

The Barnstable County Department of Human Services website find.bchumanservices.net features on-line directories of health and human service resources. The Directories are a compilation of local resources organized around areas of critical need such as food, housing,  energy/fuel assistance, and services for seniors and people with disabilities. Find.bchumanservices.net is a valuable resource now available to Barnstable County residents and human service organizations. This new on-line tool is an effective and efficient way to make local information available on a 'simple to search' website. For more information view press release in its entirety.

 

If you believe your organization should be included in any of the new Directories or have any other feedback on how to improve the on-line directories, call the Department of Human Services at 508/375-6628.

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?  
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.  To locate services dial 211 or 1-877-211-MASS on your telephone or go to www.mass211help.org
  
Mass 2-1-1 also provides enhanced information and referral services to families and children who are dealing with challenging issues.  Families can dial 211 from any phone and be connected to a trained information and referral specialist, any time of the day or night.
  
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has designated Mass 2-1-1 as the official point of contact for receiving information during a time of crisis or weather emergency.
  
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. 
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.

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
E-NEWSLETTER ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS
To submit materials, please include the following information and forward to kcallahan@barnstablecounty.org :
  • 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)

Barnstable County Seal

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.