spotlight

MASHPEE WAMPANOAG TRIBE OFFICE FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH

Let's make our community safe from child abuse!

Please join us on Saturday, April 29th from 11:00AM to 2:00PM at the Mashpee Wampanoag Community Center for FREE food and drinks and information and community resources on child abuse prevention and awareness.

Activities include crafts door prizes, face painting and a poster contest to bring awareness to child abuse.

Act Now, Stay Covered

MASSHEALTH REDETERMINATION COMMUNICATIONS TOOLKIT

Reminder! Beginning April 1, MassHealth will resume the process of determining eligibility for benefits of all members. Blue envelopes will be utilized for MassHealth correspondence sent through the mail. Be sure to be on the lookout, and promptly return all required documentation to ensure no disruption of benefits.

MassHealth is dedicated to effectively communicating with members and has created cross-agency workgroups to help further develop communications strategies and materials for members who may be hard to reach or have more complex redeterminations, including members experiencing homelessness, members with disabilities, members who are 65 or older, immigrant populations, and children and families.

Regional News

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING, DOCUMENT AVAILABILITY AND COMMENT PERIOD - BARNSTABLE COUNTY HOME CONSORTIUM ANNUAL ACTION PLAN

The Barnstable County HOME Consortium has prepared its Draft Annual Action Plan for Program Year 2023 (PY23). This plan outlines funding priorities and serves as the strategic and planning document for Barnstable County’s HOME Program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The HUD allocation for PY23 is $500,251.00, with approximately $100,950.00 in repurposed program income. 

An in-person public meeting on the draft Annual Action Plan will take place on Monday, April 24, 2023 at 3:00PM at the Barnstable County Complex Innovation Conference Room located at 3195 Main Street, Barnstable.

Visit the Barnstable County HOME Program website for links to public notices, the 2023 draft Annual Action Plan, and more!

CAPE COD 2024 REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN SURVEY NOW OPEN

The Cape Cod Commission is seeking comments and input from the public to support development of the 2024 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP). An online survey is now open. 

The RTP sets the long-range vision for transportation on Cape Cod in 2050. It is the primary means for the allocation of federal and state funds for the Cape's transportation needs. The Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), a collaboration of local, regional, state, and federal transportation officials, is charged with updating the RTP this spring. 

The Cape Cod Commission wants to hear from you. What is your vision for the future of transportation on Cape Cod? More sidewalks and bike paths? Increased bus service? Commuter rail? Improved pavement conditions? Replacement of the existing Canal bridges? Safer roadways? Increased access to electric vehicle charging stations? 

Click the button below to learn more about the Regional Transportation Plan, see a calendar of upcoming meetings, and participate in the online survey.

classes & support groups

NATIONAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT WEEK

The week of April 11 through April 15 is National Community Development Week, a time to highlight the importance of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) programs to building strong, resilient, and vibrant communities across America.

CDBG and HOME provide grants to states and local governments to strengthen communities by delivering equitable access to decent housing and living environments and expanding economic opportunities. These programs are unique in that they focus primarily on people with low and moderate incomes. CDBG and HOME also play a critical role in empowering residents by giving them a voice in the future of their neighborhoods.

In Barnstable County, the HOME Program has supported affordable rental housing development for over 30 years. Visit our website to learn more.

SAFE PLACE LOSS SURVIVOR GROUP STARTING IN HYANNIS

Join us for our next Safe Place group for Suicide Loss Survivors. This 6-session group will begin on Wednesday, April 12, 2023 from 6:30PM to 8:00PM at the following location:

Cape Space

100 Independence Dr.

Hyannis, MA 02601



Participants must register to attend all 6 sessions. For more information or to register, please contact Maya Dinsmore by email mdinsmore@capesamaritans.org or call 508-548-7999.

NEW LOCATION FOR OUR PARENTS SUPPORTING PARENTS WEEKLY MEETINGS

As of 3/13/23 Parents Supporting Parents support meetings for those who have a loved one struggling with substance use disorder will be meeting at their new location.

Meetings are every Monday nights except holidays at 6:30PM at our new location at the Sandwich Center for Active Living 70 Quaker Meeting House Road, East Sandwich.

Please enter through the entrance at the front of the building and take the elevator up and you will see us in the upstairs classroom. Question? Please call Linda Cubellis 508-846-5731 or email capecodpsp@gmail.com.

SPECIAL NEEDS TRUST WORKSHOP

Do you have a child or family member with a disability? Do you want to make sure their financial needs will be taken care of in the future? Join CORD and Baystate Financial on March 29th at 7:00 p.m. in Hyannis for a workshop on special needs trusts. Learn the basics of what you need to do to protect your loved one.

RSVPs are required by March 24th. Contact CORD by March 22 if you need communication access. Please note that this event is scent-free. Call CORD at 508-775-8300 to sign up.

Helping the community since 1984, Cape Organization for Rights of the Disabled (CORD) is a non-profit organization that advances independent living and the rights of people with disabilities on Cape Cod and the Islands in Massachusetts.

CAPE COD CHILDREN'S PLACE - HOW TO OPEN YOUR OWN FAMILY CHILDCARE BUSINESS

Join Cape Cod Children's Place at our Roundtable Discussion on "How to Open and Operate an At-Home Licensed Family Childcare /Preschool".

Presenters include MA Department of Early Education and Care, Local Family Childcare Providers, and Cape Cod Children's Place Early Child Development staff.

Details:

Thursday, April 6, 2023

6:00PM to 7:30PM

Harwich Elementary School Gym

263 South St., Harwich

Contact Lucy Gilmore to register: lgilmore@monomoy.edu.

YOUNG ADULT GRIEF GROUP

Join us for a new clinician-led peer grief group support group where young adults (18+) can meet, share their feelings and connect through the experience of loss.

Details

3rd Thursday of each month, 5:30PM to 7:30PM

Mashpee, MA (venue disclosed upon registration)

Info. & Registration

SharingKindness.org/youngadult-grief-group

FAMILY GRIEF GROUPS

A death loss affects the whole family, and everyone processes their grief differently. Sharing Kindness is offering free peer grief support designed to meet the needs of families with tweens (ages 10-13) and teens (ages 14-17) on Cape Cod.

WHEN: The 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month, from 5:30PM to 7:30PM, starting on February 14, 2023.

WHERE: Harwich, MA *Venue disclosed upon registration.

HOW IT WORKS: Starts with a light supper at 5:30PM, followed by separate groups for parents/caregivers and children (the latter separated by age group) from 6:00PM to 7:30PM.

Learn more and register: SharingKindness.org/familygrief-groups. Made possible by funding from the Parent Information Network (PIN).

"POSITIVE DISCIPLINE": SIX WEEK PARENTING EDUCATION SERIES IN SPANISH

For twenty-five years, Positive Discipline has been the gold standard reference for grown-ups working with children and their caregivers. Positive discipline is a way of teaching and guiding children by letting them know what behavior is acceptable in a way that is firm, yet kind. Parenting strategies enhance social emotional competence and self-esteem for greater success in life.

Join Marly Pereda and Cindy Martin from Cape Cod Children’s Place who will provide an engaging, interactive, evidence-based curriculum that was developed by Jane Nelsen, distinguished psychologist, educator, and mother of seven.

Details:



6:00PM to 7:30PM

March 29th, April 5th, 12th, 26th, May 3rd, 10th

This series is virtual - a meeting link will be provided upon registration.

To register, please call Cape Cod Children’s Place at 508-240-3310. Please provide full name, town of residence, phone, first names, ages of children. While this particular series is in Spanish, it will be presented in both English and Spanish several times per year.

HELPING TEENS HEAL FROM TRAUMA

Trauma among teens is more common than you might believe. By the age of sixteen, approximately one-quarter (25%) of children and adolescents have experienced at least one traumatic event. As a caring adult, you have an important role to play in aiding them as they heal.

The effects of trauma can be debilitating, making it difficult for teens to cope with life’s daily struggles. Adults can help by providing a safe, supportive environment and access to useful resources. With your help, teens can begin to heal from the trauma they have experienced and move forward in life.

Join us on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm ET when Deborah Vinall, LMFT, Psy-D, defines trauma and discusses its impact on long-term wellness. She will also cover the signs of trauma in teens, effective treatment approaches, and practical strategies that caring adults can use to encourage teen mental wellness.

Register to join us for a live webinar discussion or watch on demand after it airs. After the webinar, complete our online evaluation and you'll be entered for a chance to win a complimentary copy of Deborah Vinall's book, "Trauma Recovery Workbook for Teens: Exercises to Process Emotions, Manage Symptoms and Promote Healing."

BREWSTER LADIES' LIBRARY DISCOVERY & ENRICHMENT SERIES: COURAGEOUS CONVERSATIONS

Domestic and sexual violence cases come in many forms and are often unrecognized by others and underreported. Chris Morin, Director of Prevention, Education, and Outreach at Independence House, will present "Courageous Conversations" on Thursday, April 27, 2023 from 7:00PM to 8:00PM, to provide a brief overview of the organization's services, describe the signs of abuse, and explain what individuals can do as active bystanders to support survivors.

This presentation is a part of the Brewster Ladies' Library Association Discovery & Enrichment Series. To register, visit www.brewsterladieslibrary.org.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: ACCESS TO JUSTICE SERIES

You're invited to our upcoming series of events - Know Your Rights: Access to Justice Series - designed to educate our community on understanding our rights. Community networking, appetizers & refreshments will be provided, followed by attorney and advocate panelist discussion and Q&A. Relevant resources will be provided to attendees.

This series will take place at the CCIAOR Conference Center at 22 Mid Tech Drive, West Yarmouth from 5:00PM to 7:00PM. Session topics and dates below.

Immigration Law - 4/6

Juvenile Law - 4/13

Family Law - 4/27

Criminal Law - 5/4

Employment Law - 5/11

Housing Law - 5/18

Sign up on the Amplify POC Eventbrite Page to register for each session separately or simply click on one of the sessions listed above.

Help us spread the word in our community!

• Download the general flyer linked below and post in the community, at your business/workplace, include in your newsletters and on your website, etc. 
• Follow us on social media and share our posts for this event - we will be posting more info on the panelists the week of each session but are also attaching our first series session flyer to give you a first look at our incredible Immigration Session!
• Invite your friends, family, and community members to join us for these impactful events!

Thank you, we appreciate your help in getting the word out and hope to see you there!

resources

After 16 years and over $56 million in low-interest loans distributed for approximately 4,700 septic system repairs and replacements on Cape Cod, the Community Septic Management Loan Program (CSMLP) expanded to include loans for the installation of innovative/alternative technologies, as well as sewer connections. This expansion is in response to the growing problem of nitrogen pollution in the bays, estuaries, and ponds across Cape Cod that will require residents to upgrade or replace their current septic systems or connect to town sewers. The CSMLP program is now called AquiFund, in reference to Cape Cod’s sole source aquifer. 

Barnstable County residents can now apply for low-interest betterment loans for repairing or replacing failed septic systems, upgrading to alternative septic system technologies, as well as installing sewer connections. 

Interest rates for new applicants will be calculated based on financial need along with additional qualifying criteria: 

• 0% interest rate betterment loans are available to year-round homeowners with a household income less than $100,500 living in a single-family, owner-occupied, primary residence located in a nitrogen-sensitive watershed. 
• 2% interest rate betterment loans are available to year-round homeowners with a household income less than $150,500 living in a single-family, owner-occupied, primary residence located in a nitrogen-sensitive watershed. 
• All other new projects are eligible for loans at 4%. 

NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE CORPS (NHSC) LOAN REPAYMENT PROGRAMS FOR PROVIDER'S ONLY

The National Health Service Corps (NHSC) supports more than 20,000 primary care medical, dental, and behavioral health providers through scholarships and loan repayment programs. For more than 50 years, we’ve increased access to quality health care in communities with significant health professional shortages.

Starting February 28, 2023, you can apply for one of three NHSC Loan Repayment Programs. The deadline for applications is April 25, 2023, at 7:30PM. If you’re not sure which program fits your needs, review this comparison chart, “Which One Is Right for You?”

funding opportunities

TOWN OF FALMOUTH ANNOUNCES FY24 HUMAN SERVICES FUNDING

The Town of Falmouth, acting through the Human Services Department, invites proposals from public or private, state and federally recognized nonprofit agencies, or partnerships to deliver projects, programs or services in the following categories: 

• $20,000 for outmigration of working age adults
• $70,000 for housing stabilization and homeless outreach services
• $9,500 for the development and delivery of programs and services that will positively impact the social-emotional well-being of Falmouth residents under the age of 18. 

The primary intent of this funding is to stimulate the development of new initiatives, projects, programs, or services that are not currently being offered in the community. Secondarily, proposals will be considered for funding used to enhance or growing existing programs and services that are unable to meet the community's current need. Applications are due on Friday, April 21st, 2023, at 4:00pm in the Human Services Office: 65A Town Hall Square, Falmouth, MA 02540.  

Read the press release HERE!

employment opportunities

LATHAM CENTERS HAS EMPLOYMENT AND INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

If you're a student seeking an internship or a job-seeker looking for a career, Latham has full-time, part-time and flexible opportunities from Plymouth to Brewster available.

YOU CAN GROW A CAREER at Cape Cod’s most innovative human service agency! We offer an inclusive environment, professional training, competitive salary, and opportunities for advancement. Latham offers a robust benefits package including 5 weeks earned time away, excellent health plans, tuition reimbursement and a retirement fund match. Join our team helping students and adults with disabilities thrive in their educational and community life.

MASSACHUSETTS CLUBHOUSE COALITION (MCC) EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JOB OPENING

The strength of the MCC comes from its active member participation and leadership, its positive mission, the quality of member Clubhouses, and the MCC’s unity in working towards a common vision. The Executive Director will play a leadership role in helping the MCC stand as a unified body in accomplishing its goals.

The Executive Director is responsible for ensuring the financial solvency of the organization by leading the MCC in raising funds, collecting payments due and overseeing the disposition of those funds solely for the purpose of accomplishing the goals and objectives of the organization.

View the job description in its entirety HERE >>>

All resumes and cover letters need to be submitted electronically via

mccexecdir.applicants@gmail.com. Candidates should include a resume and a cover letter that describes how their qualifications and experience match the needs and mission of the Massachusetts Clubhouse Coalition.  

FOOD 4 KIDS IS HIRING FOR THE SUMMER

Food 4 Kids (F4K) operates as part of the Massachusetts Summer EATS program, our state’s branding for the federally funded USDA Summer Food Service Program. Each weekday for 9 weeks in the summer, we serve 450 – 600 children and teens breakfasts, lunches, and/or snacks right where they are — at local recreation programs and libraries in Harwich, Eastham, Chatham, Wellfleet, Brewster, Truro, Orleans and Provincetown.

Are you or someone you know looking for a great summer job? Food 4 Kids is an amazing place to work!

• Competitive wages (starting at $18/hr).
• Full and part-time jobs for those 16 and older June through August.
• Great hours - you can be finished by 2:00PM each day.
• Your work benefits children from Harwich to Provincetown.
• You will be surrounded by others committed to our mission.
• We are an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Visit our website for more information and/or contact lfroeschner@food4kidscapecod.org to learn more.

volunteer opportunities

FALMOUTH ROAD RACE

The Samaritans on Cape Cod and the Islands is a nonprofit organization that provides support to people experiencing crises. Our mission is suicide prevention: we are dedicated to helping people contemplating suicide or personally affected by suicide.

For those who would like to raise money and run the Falmouth Road Race on behalf of The Samaritans on Cape Cod and the Islands, please apply for a bib by completing an application at capesamaritans.org/falmouth-road-race. Members of Team Samaritans are guaranteed entry into the ASICS Falmouth Road Race.

The deadline for submitting applications is April 15.

For questions, contact to Stephanie Kelly at skelly@capesamaritans.org.

Race Date: August 20, 2023

GARDEN VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT THE FAMILY PANTRY OF CAPE COD

The Family Pantry of Cape Cod's 9,000 square foot vegetable garden will open in April. Volunteers are needed to help open the garden and maintain it throughout the summer growing season. No experience is needed. Shifts are MWF 9:00am to 11:30AM. Groups looking for service days are encouraged to call the office. Garden volunteers must be 16, if younger they must be accompanied by a parent.

Please submit your application on the Pantry website at www.thefamilypantry.com or call the office at 508-432-6519.

food resources

STATE EXTRA SNAP BENEFITS

During COVID, households got extra SNAP at the beginning of each month to buy food. Due to federal action, the last payment was March 2, 2023. The state is funding extra SNAP benefits for 3 more months. You will get up to 40% of the difference between your normal monthly SNAP benefit amount and the maximum amount for your household size, with a minimum amount of $38 a month.

CAPE ABILITIES FARM: NEW CSA SNAP/HIP PROGRAM

Enjoy super-fresh farm, local & organic grown vegetables & fruit!

Here’s How the CSA Works:

• Individuals sign up for a farm share of fresh vegetables & fruit for a pre-determined period, for example, Spring Season (April & May). Individuals select the type of membership, for example, every week or every other week.
• Members pick up their share at Cape Abilities Farm, 458 Main Street, Dennis. In select situations produce shares may be delivered to a specific location, for example, Hyannis, at a pre-determined location & time. 
• Payment will be processed thru your SNAP monthly allocation. Your HIP benefits will be applied to payment of the SNAP CSA.

Members enjoy the freshest of farm, local &/or organically grown seasonal produce! Delicious recipes based upon the share’s contents are included. View the program flyer for more information!

ELDER SERVICES SPRING FARM BOX DISTRIBUTION

Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands, Inc. will be distributing boxes of fresh produce to individuals 60 years of age or older residing in Barnstable County!

Each box is free of charge and will contain produce from Cape Abilities Farm. To reserve a box please call the Nutrition Department at Elder Services at 508-394-4630 x412. All reservations must be made by 3:00PM on Wednesday, April 19th. There are a limited number of boxes and they will be available on a first come, first served basis. You do not have to be an Elder Services consumer to receive this benefit.

The produce will be distributed via a "grab-n-go" on Tuesday, April 25th between 12:00PM and 1:00PM at Elder Services of Cape Cod and the Islands Located at 68 Route 134 in South Dennis.

SNAP BENEFITS UPDATE

Massachusetts Law Reform Institute’s (MLRI) A Guide to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Massachusetts was updated to reflect significant changes in SNAP policy since early 2020. This guide provides practical information about how and where to apply, who is eligible, and how to appeal a denial or termination. It includes updated benefits charts, sample advocacy forms and a cross walk chart to policy guidance in DTA's BEACON Online Guide.

FOOD GRAB AND GO IS BACK!

The Family Pantry of Cape Cod’s Food Grab and Go is back!

On May 21st from 10:00PM to 12:00PM (or until the distribution is complete), the Pantry will be hosting a drive through Food Grab and Go in the East parking lot of the Barnstable High School and in the rear parking lot of the Brewster Council on Aging.

No documentation is required, and everyone is welcome. Participants will receive a 30lb box of nonperishable items, 5 lbs of apples and a modest gift card from Star Market. Check out our website at www.thefamilypantry.com for more information or call the office at 508-432-6519.

Be sure to download our Cape & Islands Food Access Resource Guide! This publication is updated regularly by the Barnstable County Cape Cod Cooperative Extension and contains all the information you need for food accessibility.

covid notices | resources

FREE COVID-19 AT-HOME TESTS AVAILABLE TO ALL AGING SERVICE PROVIDERS

Nursing homes and other aging services providers across the U.S. can now access free COVID-19 test kits through an expanded partnership between the Department of Health and Human Services and LeadingAge. The program has no announced end date, and providers are encouraged to make regular requests so their supplies do not expire.

NEW COVID-19 TELEHEALTH TREATMENT HOTLINE

Tested positive for COVID-19? Telehealth is a quick and free way to see if you’re eligible for COVID-19 treatment. You can access telehealth services by calling (833) 273-6330 or by completing an online assessment at mass.gov/CovidTelehealth. Clinicians are available every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM EST. This service is not for medical emergencies or those who have severe chest pain or shortness of breath

service directory opportunity

The Barnstable County Department of Human Services’ Network of Care SERVICE DIRECTORY website, is a robust local health and human services directory with resources for individuals, families, and agencies on Cape Cod with public health questions and concerns.

newsletter sign-up & submit

Yes! I'd like to received the Human Services e-newsletter. When you click 'sign me up!' you will have a choice to receive both the Human Services and/or RSAC e-news delivered directly to your inbox.

Submissions will only be accepted using our online submission form. Attachments must be in .PDF FORMAT ONLY please. Posting of articles submitted for this publication is at the discretion of the Department.