|
|  |
Barnstable County Department of Human Services monthly E-newsletter is the 'clearinghouse' for human services on Cape Cod providing news to human service organizations, elected officials and residents on training, funding opportunities, events and more. Visit our website for information on all BCDHS initiatives. | |
 | |
Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by a federal agency, the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time to recognize older Americans' contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities.
This year’s theme, "Powered by Connection," focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections have on the well-being and health of older adults — a relationship underscored by the U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community.
“It's not just about having someone to chat with,” said Mandi Speakman, Barnstable County Department of Human Services Deputy Director. “It's about the transformative potential of community engagement in enhancing mental, physical, and emotional well-being.” According to Speakman, by recognizing and nurturing the role that connectedness plays, we can mitigate issues like loneliness, ultimately promoting healthy aging for more Americans.
What can individuals do to connect?
- Invite more connection into your life by finding a new passion, joining a social club, taking a class, or trying new activities in your community.
- Stay engaged in your community by giving back through volunteering, working, teaching, or mentoring.
- Invest time with people to build new relationships and discover deeper connections with your family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors.
| |
CHILDREN'S BEHAVIORAL HEALTH NEEDS ASSESSMENT | |
|
Are you a young person 21 years of age or younger?
Are you a parent, guardian, or caregiver of someone 21 years of age or younger?
Do you work with young people 21 years of age or younger?
We want to hear from you!
Barnstable County Department of Human Services is conducting a needs assessment regarding the behavioral health needs of children, youth, and young adults (ages 0–21 years), and related services in Barnstable County.
As part of this assessment, this survey is being shared with Barnstable County residents who have unique perspectives about our youth; parents, guardians, and caregivers of young people, and those who work with or provide services to young people. Information collected through this survey will help in understanding what services may be needed to guide future efforts.
The survey, which will remain open until June 9, 2024, is anonymous, voluntary, and takes about 15 minutes to complete.
| |
aging well & healthy living | |
THE IMPORTANCE OF BRAIN HEALTH FOR LGBTQ+ INDIVIDUALS | |
|
LGBTQ+ older people face unique challenges including stigma, health disparities, and barriers in access to care. Being informed about brain health can help members of the LGBTQ+ community take steps to promote a healthy brain.
Key Takeaways:
- While some risk factors for dementia cannot be changed, such as genetics and age, other risk factors can potentially be modified.
- Improving heart health, exercising, getting high-quality sleep, and improving mental health may all positively affect brain health.
- LGBTQ+ older people with dementia may suffer disproportionately due to a lifetime of discrimination, but taking action now to improve brain health may positively impact health outcomes.
| |
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE IS LGBTQ+, PLEASE JOIN MONTHLY SUPPORT MEETINGS OFFERED IN ENGLISH AND PORTUGUESE | |
Please join us at our monthly support meetings for parents, families, friends, allies, and members of the LGBTQ+ community! Now offering HYBRID support meetings in Portuguese on the 3rd Friday of the month from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Latinx In Action (116 Stevens Street, Hyannis) and online via Zoom! | |
TOWN OF SANDWICH MUNICIPAL DIGITAL EQUITY PLAN RELEASED FOR PUBLIC COMMENT | |
|
The Cape Cod Commission and Town of Sandwich have released the Draft Town of Sandwich Municipal Digital Equity Plan for a 30-day public review and comment period.
The Town of Sandwich Municipal Digital Equity Plan assesses the digital divide in Sandwich and identifies opportunities to advance digital equity. The plan considers the affordability of internet service, access to technology necessary for participation in civic, social, and economic life, and the skills required for meaningful digital engagement. The goal of the plan is to prepare the town for funding opportunities and guide decision-making, investment, and implementation.
| |
NEW RESOURCE FOR BUILDING VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS TAILORED TO THE NEEDS OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES | |
In honor of National Volunteer Week, the ACL-funded Community Care Corps is pleased to share a new online library of resources developed to help community organizations build successful volunteer programs. | |
ATTENTION ALL CAREGIVERS! DESTINATION RESPITE CAREGIVERS' GATEWAY TO WELL-DESERVED BREAKS | |
|
Destination Respite is an initiative spearheaded by a collaborative of various local agencies working together to expand respite options for Cape Cod caregivers. Each Destination Respite Program offers a minimum of three hours of activity two times each month.
The Dennis Center for Active Living is coordinating implementation of the pilot and is charged with offering services to underserved caregiver populations in the funded service areas.
Destination Respite Programs will be available for Spanish and Portuguese speaking caregivers, and ESL classes will be provided with care for loved ones, to allow for caregiver participation.
| |
NOTICE OF OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT ON TRANSPORTATION PLANNING DOCUMENTS: PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE TRANSPORTATION NEEDS OF CAPE COD | |
|
On April 22, 2024, the Cape Cod Metropolitan Planning Organization voted to release the following three transportation planning documents for a 21-day public comment period.
Members of the public are invited to review these documents and provide comments.
Please send written comments to Colleen Medeiros by mail or email: transportation@capecodcommission.org by May 13, 2024.
Colleen Medeiros, Transportation Program Manager
Cape Cod Commission
3225 Main Street
PO Box 226
Barnstable, MA 02630
| |
ADULTS 60+ WITH A GOCARD OR VALID ID CAN RIDE CCRTA FIXED ROUTE BUSES FOR FREE OR RIDE THE DART SERVICE FOR $1.50 | |
|
Adults 60 and over with a GoCard or with a valid ID can ride CCRTA Fixed Route buses for FREE or ride our DART service for $1.50. GoCards can be obtained at the CCRTA administrative offices located in the Hyannis Transportation Center open Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Call 508-775-8504 for more information.
| |
COMMUNITY WELLNESS FAIR: BREWSTER | |
The Brewster Council on Aging invites residents to attend our second annual community Wellness Fair on Friday May 19 from 2:00 PM 4:30 PM at the Brewster Baptist Church. Town departments and local service providers will offer a variety of wellness programs and assistance. | |
|
This FREE 6-week exercise program, instructed by a Public Health Nurse, uses mix of interval training using weights and bands that will keep your heartrate up and muscles engaged!
Where: Brewster Council on Aging, 1673 Main St, Brewster
When: Mondays 1:30 PM–2:30 PM, May 13, 2024 through June 24, 2024*
*No class 5/17 Memorial Day
Registration is required! For more information or to sign up, please contact the VNA at Cape Cod: (508) 957-7423.
| |
THE WALK IT OUT CHALLENGE PRESENTATION | |
|
Are you looking to be more active? Are you interested in improving your cardiovascular fitness and improving your mood but aren’t sure where to start? Join us for this presentation by a Physical Therapist from the VNA of Cape Cod and join the 4-week walking challenge!
The program takes place on Wednesday, May 22nd 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM at the Brewster Council on Aging at 1673 Mainstreet, Brewster.
Please note, this is not an exercise program. The Presentation will include topics such as the health benefits of walking, after walk wellness care, and even the best socks to wear!
Participants will receive a 4-week program to follow independently.
To reserve your seat, please contact the Brewster COA at (508) 896-2737 to save your spot.
| |
FREE TRAVEL TRAINING WITH CAPE COD RTA | |
|
Co-sponsored by the Brewster Ladies’ Library, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority’s (CCRTA) Travel Training Program strives to assist its users in traveling independently via bus. In this session a certified Travel Trainer will assist attendees in enhancing their transportation skills by giving bus route training and trip planning tips, such as reading and understanding maps and schedules, using the Boston Hospital bus, bus fare structures, and more.
When: Thursday, May 16 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Where: Brewster Ladies’ Library, 1822 Main St., Brewster
Register at www.brewsterladieslibrary.org or call (508) 896-3913
| |
COVE CLUBHOUSE OPEN HOUSE | |
|
For 45 years, Vinfen has been dedicated to making a difference in people's lives. We are a leading provider of community-based services for people with:
- Autism
- Behavioral Health Challenges
- Brain Injuries
- Intellectual and developmental disabilities
- Mental Health Conditions
Our dedicated staff uses the latest science-based interventions to support the people we serve to achieve their goals and live more independent, productive, and valued lives as members of their community. We strive to be the employer of choice to attract outstanding team members who share a commitment to our mission and values.
Events at Vinfen embody our values and mission of transforming lives together. Each event has a unique purpose or initiative where our staff, the people we serve and their families, community partners, and supporters are celebrated, essential funds are raised, and platforms are established to increase awareness and resources to better serve our community.
Please attend our Cove Clubhouse Open House on May 8th, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at
383 Route 28 Harwichport, MA.
All are welcome! The event will include tours & guest speakers, refreshments and information about what the Cove has to offer.
Questions? Call Sabrina Kreber at (508) 432-7774
| |
OLDER ADULT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH NETWORK CONFERENCE | |
|
Registration for the Massachusetts Older Adult Behavioral Health Network conference is now open. The conference includes workshops on a wide range of topics including legislative advocacy, interventions for chronic pain, advocacy and intervention for hoarding, immigration rights for older adults, and more.
When: Wednesday, May 8, 2024, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: The Hogan Center, College of the Holy Cross, 1 College Street, Worcester, MA 01610
| |
SAVE THE DATE: SAMHSA AND HUD'S THIRD ANNUAL COMMEMORATION OF NATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH | |
|
Save the date: Wednesday, May 22, 2024 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM
Learn more about the latest developments in mental health resource for HUD-assisted communities.
What You'll Take Away:
- How to Save a Life: Learn from SAMHSA about their 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
- Mental Health Resources: Hear about SAMHSA's Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) from the national and local levels.
- Listening Session: Your opportunity to participate in the conversation on mental health in your communities.
Attendees will receive slides and a mental health resource list after the event.
| |
HOUSING ADVISORY COUNCIL & COMMISSION ON UNLOCKING HOUSING PRODUCTION | |
|
Established through Executive Orders filed in conjunction with the Affordable Homes Act, the Housing Advisory Council and Commission on Unlocking Housing Production will bring together a broad range of stakeholders from across Massachusetts to advise the Healey-Driscoll administration on strategies to address the state’s housing challenges.
| |
|
The yearly “Wellness” visit isn’t a physical exam. Your provider will ask you to fill out a questionnaire, called a “Health Risk Assessment,” as part of this visit. Answering these questions can help you and your provider develop a personalized prevention plan to help you stay healthy and get the most out of your visit.
Your first yearly “Wellness” visit can’t take place within 12 months of your Part B enrollment or your “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit. However, you don’t need to have had a “Welcome to Medicare” preventive visit to qualify for a yearly “Wellness” visit. You pay nothing for this visit if your doctor or other health care provider accepts the assignment.
| |
THE FACTS ABOUT THE MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAM (MSP) | |
|
If you are a Massachusetts resident on Medicare with limited income, you may qualify for help paying your Medicare costs through Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs), previously known as MassHealth Buy-In (MHBI).
MSPs are not insurance plans. They are programs that help lower your Medicare premiums and other healthcare costs, including prescriptions.
It is easy to apply! It takes just 5 minutes, and you could save thousands of dollars. These programs are run by MassHealth, but you do NOT need to be on MassHealth to apply.
| |
Multicultural & Multilingual Beneficiary Conference | |
|
The Massachusetts Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) Program is hosting its first Statewide Multicultural and Multilingual Beneficiary Conference. This forum will be conducted in six different languages to effectively reach and educate Medcare and Medicaid beneficiaries, family members, caregivers, and life partners from diverse communities from across the state.
The conference workshops will be interactive and address the importance of:
- Being an engaged healthcare consumer to prevent, detect, and report healthcare errors, fraud, and abuse.
- Understanding the pros and cons of technology and its impact on the accessing of services from banking to healthcare.
- Protecting yourself and loved ones from falling victim to scams. How to spot scams. How and where to report scams.
To register, request accommodations, or for more information, contact Joanne Simone at (800) 892-0890 or email her at jsimone@agespan.org.
| |
SSA SCAM ALERT: DON'T HAND OFF CASH TO "AGENTS" | |
The Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has issued this alert in response to increased reports of impersonation scams involving in-person cash hand-offs. | |
SCAM OF THE WEEK: TOLLWAY TURMOIL | |
|
Scams that occur over text messaging are called smishing scams. This week, cybercriminals are using smishing to target motorists. They send a fake text message claiming that you have a toll due for driving on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The toll is not for a large amount, but the message says that if it isn’t paid immediately, you will be charged additional late payment fees.
There is a link in the text message, and you are instructed to tap the link in order to settle your balance. However, the text message is actually from cybercriminals, and if you tap the link, it could take you to a fake payment website. Cybercriminals use fake websites to steal your login credentials, take your money, and install malware on your phone. Always stop and think before you click!
| |
upcoming community events | |
PLEASE JOIN A COMMUNITY DIALOGUE: COMBATTING HATE, BUILDING BRIDGES ACROSS THE CAPE | |
|
Please join a Community Dialogue: Combatting Hate, Building Bridges Across the Cape
When: Sunday, May 19th, 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Where: Cape Cod & Islands Association of Realtors, 22 Mid Tech Drive, West Yarmouth, Room A
Speakers representing LGBTQIA+, Jews, Blacks, Indigenous/Native Americans, and other People of Color (BIPOC), will facilitate conversations to critically examine how we can nurture and grow health equity and human rights for all in today’s contentious and polarized environment of hate, intolerance, xenophobia, and violence. Participants will exchange ideas, brainstorm solutions, and propose community-wide Action Plans.
| |
PARENT TRAPS: CONFUSING TIMES RAISING TWEENS & TEENS GROUP SUPPORT | |
|
Join Children's Cove clinicians for a FREE informal support group learning to navigate tween/teen challenges in a safe environment.
Where: WE CAN Office, 127 Airport Road, Hyannis
When: Wednesday, 12:00 PM to 1:15 PM, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29
Light lunch and refreshments included!
Topics:
- Tech Safety
- Dating
- Teen Slang
- Communication
- Healthy Boundaries
To attend, email: deena.anderson@childrenscove.org or call: (774) 243-2949
| |
CHILD & FAMILY SERVICES ART PROJECT HOPE | |
|
You are cordially invited to attend our Art Project Hope on May 17, 2024 at Child & Family Services, located at 100 Independence Drive, Suite 8, Hyannis, MA 02601 from 3:00PM–5:00PM.
To RSVP or ask for more information, please contact Jeanne Bissonnette at: (774) 487-3085 or JBissonnette@cfservices.org
| |
PLEASE JOIN TREASURED LIFE INITIATIVE (TLI) MAY 12TH EVENT! | |
|
"NOT ON MY CAPE" Community Walk! (Sunday, May 12th, 11am, Village Green at 367 Main Street in Hyannis)
Join us as we increase awareness of human trafficking, survivor empowerment and anti-trafficking programs (for Cape Cod & the Islands) Great speakers too! Register today!
Early registration: $20
| |
SAVE THE DATE: JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION IN PROVINCETOWN | |
|
Juneteenth in Provincetown is a time of reflection and celebration, honoring African American heritage and freedom. Cultural events, educational programs, and communal gatherings amplify the town’s commitment to unity and equality.
SAVE THE DATE! Join us for Cabaret with James Jackson Junior on June 16, 2024, and a Cookout Community Celebration on June 19th, 2024!
| |
MISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AWARENESS DAY EVENT | |
An event to honor and remember Missing and Murdered Indigenous People will take place at the Community and Government Center on Sunday, May 5th from 3:00 PM–7:00 PM. The event will include singing, drumming, dinner, speakers, resource tables and an open mic. For more information, please contact Jadyn Henderson at jadyn.henderson@mwtribe-nsn.gov. | |
|
We are looking for a part-time COA Senior Center bus driver at the Dennis Center for Active Living. PLEASE CALL more information. Applicants must have clean driving record and be willing to be CORI’d. The position includes morning and afternoon hours and is per diem. You must be able to operate a lift and assist riders with disabilities. An up-to-date CPR certification is required; if you need recertification we will provide it.
Call us at (508) 385-5067 for more information.
| |
TOWN OF FALMOUTH SEEKS APPLICATIONS FOR OPIOID ABATEMENT FUNDS | |
|
The Town of Falmouth, acting through the Human Services Department, invites public or private, state and federally recognized nonprofit agencies, or partnerships, and other interested parties to apply for the Town’s Opioid Abatement funds to deliver programs and services that will mitigate the impacts of the Opioid Crisis.
The Town of Falmouth will issue one-year grants of up to $25,000 with an option to renew for up to two additional years. The Town of Falmouth reserves the right to determine if multiyear grants will be issued based on the scope and expected impact of the project and the organization’s history of delivering similar projects.
Additionally, grants of up to $1,000 for smaller projects will be awarded on a rolling basis and will have a separate application reviewed monthly by the Falmouth Commission on Substance Use.
Opioid Abatement funds must be spent in accordance with the State-wide Subdivision Agreement and used solely to supplement and strengthen, not supplant, resources for prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery of opioid use disorder. For a detailed outline of strategies approved for funding please visit https://www.mass.gov/doc/massachusetts-abatement-terms/download.
Organizations and collaborative partnerships selected for funding will enter into a contract with the Town of Falmouth to deliver the programs and services outlined in their application. The contractual start date is expected to be August 1, 2024.
All applications and required forms are available on the Town of Falmouth website http://www.falmouthma.gov/human-services and at the Human Services Office.
Applications are due on Friday, May 31st, 2024, by 4:00 PM in the Human Services Office: 744 Main Street, Falmouth, MA 02540 or, via email at opioidabatement@falmouthma.gov.
A Zoom Drop-in hour will be offered to answer Applicant questions on Wednesday, April 17th at 3:00 PM.
Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87977868746?pwd=F88Pth6UDwdOQJpHjc11xTaMO8YvxC.1
| |
TOWN OF FALMOUTH FY25 HUMAN SERVICES GRANT FUNDING APPLICATION NOW OPEN | |
|
The Town of Falmouth, through the Human Services Department, announces funding in the amount of $9,500 is available in FY2025 (July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025) for the development and delivery of programs and services that will accomplish one or more of the following:
❖ Initiate or enhance mental health related prevention and early intervention programs.
❖ Initiate or enhance mental health recovery support programs.
❖ Initiate or enhance projects and services that address the impacts of isolation and loneliness in any age group.
❖ Initiate or enhance programs that specifically support the social-emotional-mental health related needs of diverse and marginalized members of the Falmouth community.
❖ Provide basic supports and resources to economically disadvantaged members of the Falmouth community.
The primary intent of this funding is to stimulate the development of new or nearly 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 grow existing
programs and services to expand the organization’s capacity to deliver their programs.
For submission requirements please view the application and required forms herein and found on the Town of Falmouth website http://www.falmouthma.gov/human-services and at the Human Services Office. Applications are due on Monday, June 17th, 2024, at 4:00 PM in the Human Services Office: 744 Main Street, Falmouth, MA 02540. Applications can also be submitted electronically at info.humanservices@falmouthma.gov
| |
food & community resources | |
CAPE COD FOOD ACCESS GUIDE SPRING 2024 | |
|
Check out this updated guide to Cape Cod Food Pantries, Soup Kitchens, Elder Services, and Meal Sites!
| |
BUY FRESH BUY LOCAL 2024 GUIDE | |
FREE SPRING FOOD GRAB AND GO, BARNSTABLE AND ORLEANS | |
|
Struggling to make ends meet? Visit our upcoming Food Grab and Go Events! Everyone is Welcome!
Date: Sunday May 19, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM to Noon (or until distribution is complete)
Locations: Barnstable High School – East Parking Lot
Nauset Regional Middle School – Side Lot
This is a drive through event. Each recipient will get a 30lb box of non-perishable groceries, a bag of fresh apples and a modest gift card to a local supermarket.
No documentation or registration required.
| |
Service Directory Opportunity | |
Are You Represented on our Network of Care (NOC) Service Directory? | |
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.
| |
| | | |
