Accessibility Resource Center

November 21, 2014

Have you heard about the new Barnstable County Behavioral Health web portal?  It's a fantastic tool for our community providing critical information, communication, and advocacy tools with a single point of entry.

One of the key features of the new portal is a comprehensive Service Directory with over 100 services. This Service Directory enables consumers to easily locate the local programs and services they need most.

But to make a Service Directory most effective, it needs to be complete, comprehensive, and up-to-date. Thus, several community organizations and coalitions provided their expertise and assistance in order to pre-populate the Service Directory before it launched in late September. This fantastic team was able to initially identify over 100 services, but chances are there are just as many organizations that still need to be added.

That's where you come in!

If your organization isn't listed in the Behavioral Health Service Directory yet, don't worry: it's super easy to include your agency's information. Likewise, if your organization is already included but you would like to tweak or update the information currently listed, that's very straightforward too.

To learn more about editing or adding your organization to the Behavioral Health Service Directory, please check out this quick online tutorial!

The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has just increased the benefits a household can get under LIHEAP (the fuel assistance program), which opens its doors November 1st.  The full table of benefits, which vary by heating source and household income, can be found at http://www.mass.gov/hed/docs/dhcd/cd/liheap/fy15liheap-incomeeligibilityandinitialbenefitlevels.pdf

The maximum benefit for those who heat with oil or propane/kerosene is $1,025, if income is less than 100% of the poverty level.  The maximum benefit for those who heat with electricity or gas is $700.  Check the table for complete details.

Medicare's Open Enrollment period for Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D), and Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) starts on October 15th and ends on December 7th for 2015 plan choices. 

SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) is made available through the MA 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 & Islands.  The regional SHINE office can be reached at 508/375-6762 or SHINE@barnstablecounty.org

Members who are currently enrolled with Commonwealth Care, MSP, Temporary coverage, or a QHP will need to re-apply by December 23, 2014 to avoid a loss of coverage.

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.

Navigators will be available for application assistance in our Falmouth Office, Jones Rd. 8am-4pm 9/30, 10/14, 10/28, and 11/25 or the Falmouth Service Center 10am-2pm 10/7, 10/21, 11/4, and 11/18 by appointment only.

The draft Coordinated Public Transit - Human Services Transportation Plan was released for public comment on November 17, 2014.  The comment period runs through December 22nd.

The plan is intended to identify needs and gaps in human transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities in Barnstable County.  View full Plan on the Cape Cod Commission website.

Comments may be submitted via email to Glenn Cannon, Director of Technical Services at gcannon@capecodcommission.org or via mail to: CPT Human Services Transportation Plan, Attn:  Glenn Cannon, P.O. Box 226, Barnstable, MA  02630.

SAVE THE DATE:  Wednesday, December 10, 2014, 8:30 A.M.

                         Holiday Inn, Route 132, Hyannis

Who is your local Human Rights Hero?  The Barnstable County Human Rights Commission is seeking nominations for Cape Codders who have fostered human rights ideals.

• Cornerstone Award: presented to a private citizen.
• Rosenthal Community Champion Award: presented to an individual in the public sector (police, fire, elected officials...).

Download Nominations forms.  Deadline for nominations is Monday, November 24, 2014.  Awards will be presented at the Human Rights Day Breakfast on December 10th.  RSVP for the breakfast to Elenita Muniz at hrc@barnstablecounty.org

New Dementia Certificate Level One: Fulfilling Massachusetts Regulations:  This eight hour interactive Dementia Certificate program is offered by Hope Dementia & Alzheimer's Services and meets the requirements of 105 CMR 150.024 for the specialized care of residents with dementia in a facility.  It is designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of all professionals working with individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementia.

This program will be offered on December 1st and 8th from 12:30 - 4:30 P.M. at Hope Health, 765 Attucks Lane, Hyannis.  The cost is $160.00 and includes materials and certificate of completion.  8 CEs available for RN/LPN, LICSW, HCA, Activity Professional, OT/PT, Psychologist, CNA and HHA.  Read more...

For more information or to register visit www.HopeDementia.org/ProfessionalEducation , call 508/775-5656 or email info@HopeDementia.org

Falmouth Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) presents a FREE community event: Depression, Stress, and Anxiety in Teens on December 2, 2014, 6:30 - 8:00 PM at the Lawrence School Auditorium, 113 Lakeview Ave., Falmouth. 

This presentation will provide valuable insight into the lives of youth 11-17, and will focus on providing parents and community members with helpful strategies to foster healthy coping and resilience.  Read more ... 

For questions contact sreid@falmouth.k12.ma.us or ksolimine@falmouth.k12.ma.us

Service Enterprise Initiative:  Cape Cod Volunteers is excited to announce that they have been selected by Mass Service Alliance (MSA) to bring the national, evidence-based Service Enterprise Initiative (SEI) to Cape Cod.  Now in its second year as a national Points of Light program, Massachusetts is one of 15 states in the country to pilot this initiative and Cape Cod is one of just two regions in Massachusetts to be working with MSA to offer this comprehensive package of evaluation, training, coaching and certification. The initiative will begin in 2015, with applications due in mid-January and orientation kicking off the program in early to mid-February.

For more information click here, or call 508/362-0242 or email lisa@ccvolunteers.org

Mark your calendars for the next Volunteer Coordinators Roundtable on December 3, 2014, 1-2:30 PM at the Yarmouth Senior Center.   This is a brown bag lunch and CCV will provide beverages and snack.  RSVP to smhoward0512@gmail.com

Trivia Night with DJ Cubey Glazier is scheduled for Monday evening, December 8th at 7:00 P.M. at the Resort & Conference Center at Hyannis, 35 Scudder Ave, Hyannis (near the Melody Tent) to support the Cape Organization for Rights of the Disabled.

Prizes for the winning teams!  A cash bar!  Cookies and brownies!  Sundae bar at 8 PM.  Tickets are $25 per person (teams of 4 suggested).  View flyer.

Question, Persuade & Refer (QPR) are 3 simple steps that anyone can learn to help prevent suicide.  Join the Cape and Islands Suicide Prevention Coalition on Monday, December 8th, 2:30 - 4:00 PM at Cape Cod Community College, Science Building, Lecture Hall B, 2245 Iyannough Rd., West Barnstable for a QPR class.  There is NO FEE but registration is required.  This QPR class will focus particularly on suicide prevention with veterans.

For info, directions, or to register contact Kelly Welch at suicideprevention@capecoalition.com or 508/566-3610.  View flyer.

The RSVP/ Senior Environment Corps Volunteer Program of Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands will conduct home Radon testing to any homeowner on Cape Cod.  

The Radon test, including confidential lab report, is $30. Testing will begin in November and will end on March 31, 2015. If you would like your home tested, please call Elder Services and leave your contact information at 508-394-4630, Ext. 524 or 1-888-394-4630, Ext. 524.  Read more ...

Between December 11 and 14, 2014 vigils will take place across the nation to remember those killed by gun violence.  Join us on Sunday, December 14, 2014 at 6:00 PM at Peg Noonan Park, Main Street in Falmouth for a one hour vigil to remember those whose lives have been lost.  Sponsored by Grandmothers against Gun Violence, Cape Cod. 

The Cape & Islands United Way 2015 Community Investment grant documents have been posted.  You can find them here.  Grant deadline is January 20, 2015. 

If you are currently funded, final reports are due by January 9, 2015 in order to be eligible for the next round of grants.  You can find the 2014 final report form here.

The Massachusetts Medical Society and Alliance Charitable Foundation is dedicated to addressing issues that affect the health, benefit, and welfare of communities throughout Massachusetts.  The Foundation's Community Action and Care for the Medically Uninsured programs support physician-led volunteer initiatives to provide free care to uninsured/underinsured patients and increased access to care for the medically underserved.

The community health initiatives that are funded target crucial public health issues such as infectious disease, substance use, mental health, and relationship violence. Grants are provided to established organizations with proven track records working with interdisciplinary groups that address healthcare issues and where strong physician involvement exists.  Multi-year grants are possible for start-up programs. Letters of Inquiry must be submitted by January 15, 2015. Selected organizations will be invited to submit full proposals, which will be due March 1, 2015. Visit the Foundation's website to download the application guidelines and forms.

Cape Cod Community Mediation Program Seeks Executive Director:  Cape Mediation is a dynamic non-profit volunteer organization offering high quality conflict management services and training to the courts and communities of Cape Cod since 1989.  This is a part-time salaried position that reports to the Cape Mediation Board of Directors.  Seeking an individual who has a solid understanding of alternative dispute resolution and who can be a strong collaborative leader.  This position is responsible for overseeing the operations of Cape Mediation, as well as building and maintaining relationships with other stakeholders in our service area and across the state.  Read full job description.  Email resumes to peter.bowne@gmail.com.  Only electronic responses accepted.  Please no phone calls. 

The Coming Caregiver Crisis:  A third of the families in America are providing care for a disabled or elderly family member.  The number of caregivers will decrease in the future, yet the need will expand.  Read more...

NEWS FROM HOPEHEALTH

• This is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month.  HopeHealth offers innovative care and programs to those in need, and provide it with the utmost skill, compassion and respect.  Visit www.HopeHealthCo.org for more info.
• HopeHealth CEO David Rehm to retire.  Creative Vision, expanded services, legacy of care, marked Rehm's Leadership.  Rehm will continue to lead HopeHealth until a replacement has been named.
• 24th Annual Tree of Memories Ceremonies:  Seashells are beautiful, strong and ever present... much like our memories of loved ones with us and those who have passed away.  Tree of Memories remembrance ceremonies will take place in 19 communities Read more.... To order a shell contact Laurie Wyndham at 508/957-0254 or www.Giving@HopeHealthCo.org.
• New CARES Groups: New Bedford Council on Aging, 1st & 3rd Friday, 1-2:30 PM and Mashpee Senior Center, 2nd & 4th Wednesday, 11 AM - 12:30 PM.  Group can be joined at any time and are free of charge but registration is required.  To register or learn more contact 508/775-5656, email info@HopeDementia.org or visit www.HopeDementia.org/CARES

• The Senior Center will be closed on Thursday & Friday, November 27 and 28.
• Diabetic Meal Planning, December 1, 1:30 PM:  RSVP/FREE. Chill your Bill, December 9, 1:30 PM:  Learn how to save on your energy bill.  RSVP - FREE.\
• Silver Express vans offer dependable servious, available for Barnstable residents Mon-Friday on a first come/first serve basis.  Call 508/862-4752 for information.

Each year Cape Cod Volunteers get calls and e-mails from people who want to volunteer during the holidays. Some people want to combat the perceived commercialism of the holidays, some people volunteer in other ways during the rest of the year and would like to help people in need during the holiday season, some people are alone for the holidays and hope for connections through volunteering, and some people are coming to the Cape to visit family and would like to volunteer while here (some families make it a big family experience while everyone is together).  Read more...

The Gosnold Reaching Out program is a resource for family members and loved ones affected by addiction.  It assists the family at all stages of addiction through education, intervention, and support.  Weekly support groups are held at the following locations:

• Gosnold Counseling Center, 1185 Falmouth Rd., Centerville on Tuesdays, 6-7:30 PM
• Gus Canty Community Center, 790 Main St., Falmouth on Wednesdays, 6-7:30 PM
• Falmouth Hospital - Faxon Center, 100 Ter Heun Dr., Falmouth on Sundays, 4-5:00 PM

View flyer for more information.  For additional support call 781/366-0143 or email ljmccarthy@gosnold.org

Over 800,000 people worldwide end their lives annually leaving parents, children, siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents, grandchildren and close friends who deeply feel the devastation of each loss.  Samaritans on Cape Cod & the Islands has survivor support groups in Falmouth and Hyannis.  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.

Massachusetts Substance Abuse Helpline Connects People with Services:  For tens of thousands of Massachusetts resident struggling with alcohol and other drug related issues, 1-800-327-5050 is an important number.   Read more ... 

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. 

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.

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.

• 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?  

• 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)