Happy Wednesday!
This week we celebrate International Friendship day: “International Day of Friendship was designated by the United Nations General Assembly (U.N.). On July 30, we step back and get thankful for these relationships worldwide, as they promote and encourage peace, happiness, and unity. The U.N. encourages governments, community groups, and other organizations to coordinate activities and events that celebrate the friendships that we keep close to us. Many events focus on reconciliation, bridging understanding and consensus, and finding comfort in those friendships that feel like home.” What better way to illustrate this theme than by taking a cue from nature? (Photo by Jeff Wysaski from his article “The animal kingdom is NOT supposed to work this way, but I’m glad it does.”)
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Gmail Users:
Please note that Gmail clips this newsletter about midway, providing a link at the bottom to “view entire message.” We don’t want you missing out, so be sure to click that link! This also makes those links we provide to different sections of the newsletter work.
They won’t work unless you’re viewing the whole newsletter. |
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New this Week
In Case You Missed it…
The World Carers Conversation took place online December 13 -18, 2020 and enjoyed the participation of caregiving experts and stakeholders from six continents (Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, North America, South America) and 15 countries (Australia, Canada, China, France, Ghana, India, Ireland, Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States). This virtual showcase of cutting-edge caregiving research, innovation, and impact around the world was held over 5 days, reaching more than 4,000 attendees and featured more than a dozen sessions and a global town hall. Click here to view the recordings.
DCP Needs Your Help
Downeast Community Partners (DCP) is conducting a Community Needs Assessment, in conjunction with the nine other community action agencies in Maine. We are inviting you to participate in this important project by taking a short survey. We value your opinions and would greatly appreciate your insights. The community-wide survey results will help DCP better understand what challenges and barriers people in our community might face. The responses are confidential, and the survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete online. The survey is available in multiple languages. Survey participants will have the opportunity to win a $100 gift card!
Please click here to begin the survey. If you interact with community members as part of your work, please feel free to let them know about this survey, and encourage their participation. It is important that we hear the voices in Washington and Hancock counties.
FFD Evening Staff Positions Still available
Downeast Community Partners (DCP) is still currently recruiting the following staff for the evening childcare program of Family Futures Downeast in Calais and Machias:
- Food Service Technician, Calais – 8 hours per week; Tuesday and Thursday 3:00-7:00PM
- Food Service Technician, Machias – 8 hours per week; Tuesday and Thursday 3:00-7:00PM
- Lead Infant/Toddler Caregiver, Calais- 10 hours per week; Tuesday and Thursday 4:00-9:00PM
Search. Find. Help.
Today, a new resource is available to help leaders and staff at organizations serving community-dwelling older adults and their caregivers find resources to support these populations during public health emergencies. “Search. Find. Help.” is a searchable online library that connects organizations to approximately 300 existing resources that can help older adults and caregivers—ranging from tip sheets to prepare older adults for public health emergencies to tools to identify individuals in a community who need support following a disaster. The resources focus on addressing social isolation, chronic conditions, elder abuse and neglect, caregiver support, delayed medical care and emergency preparedness. Explore Seach. Find.Help.
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Updates
Updates on programs, research, initiatives and pending legislation
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One-Time Events
Fairs, trainings, conferences and more in the state of Maine
Skate 4 Life
August 7, 2021
On August 7th the Calais Skatepark Committee presents Skate 4 Life, a fundraising event, resource fair, and competition benefitting suicide prevention and substance use prevention work. See flyer for details and schedule.
WC Maine Shared Community Health Needs Assessment Forum
September 17, 2021
Downeast Public Health District asks you to save the date of September 17th from 1 — 3 pm for a virtual Community Health Needs Assessment Engagement Forum. We want to hear your thoughts on the health of your community, and together with your neighbors, identify the top health concerns, populations most at risk, as well as resources and gaps to address those concerns. Once registered, look for Data Health Profiles in your inbox late summer, 2021. Registration link containing the Zoom Meeting will be coming soon. See flyer for details.
Bouncing Forward to Build an Age-Positive Culture in Maine
September 21, 2021
Save the date of September 21st for the 8th Annual Maine Wisdom Summit, a virtual event, hosted by the Maine Council on Aging. We will explore what it will take to build an age-positive culture in Maine. Our keynote speaker will be Louise Aronson, MD MFA, who is a leading geriatrician, writer, educator, and professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. The author of the New York Times bestseller and Pulitzer Prize finalist Elderhood, she is a regular contributor to the New York Times and the New England Journal of Medicine among other publications. Her book has transformed how people think and feel about aging, and we know she will help inspire us all to action! More info here. Exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact info@mainecouncilonaging.org or 207-592-9972 for more information, or visit this page.
VA Maine’s Annual Caregiver Support Program Summit
September 24, 2021
We are excited to announce this year’s Caregiver Support Summit on Friday, September 24th.The Caregiver Summit will be held at 8:30am on Friday, September 24, 2021 via Webex. The theme for this year’s Caregiver Summit is: Inclusive Care: Empowering & Engaging Caregivers as Partners in Care. The VA has begun to initiate a culture shift to incorporate caregivers into the health care team right from the beginning of their VA care. We want to share this initiative with you and hear how you might be incorporating caregivers into care. If your organization attended last year’s summit and/or is interested in this year’s summit, please contact Tammy Holman, General Caregiver Support Services Program Coordinator, at (207) 623-8411 x 7987; (207) 249-4504 (cell); Tammy.Holman@va.gov.
Maine Roads to Quality Fall Conference
September 25, 2021
Save the date of September 25th for the Maine Roads to Quality fall, in-person conference at Washington County Community College. This conference is for early childhood and out-of-school time professionals. See flyer for details.
Zero to Three Virtual Conference
October 25-29, 2021
Registration for the ZERO TO THREE Annual Conference 2021 will open in June. We’re excited to welcome you this year. Get ready to register early! This year’s theme is Take Heart. Join us to advance our shared goals, grow your professional network, and deepen your learning and practice. Throughout the conference, you will Take Strength from this community. Be inspired by one another and empowered by what we can and will do together. Take Chances and be a brave learner with us. We’ll share new perspectives and have courageous conversations about the most pressing issues young children and families face that we must work together to solve. Take Action and be an advocate. Your voice matters. Take Care before, during, and after the conference. When we take care of ourselves, we take better care of our babies. We know the last year has been hard. Join us to reflect, renew and imagine what we can accomplish together. $499 for Early Bird thru 8/10 (Members receive an additional $75 discount!) Group Discounts Available. Sign up for updates.
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Event Calendars & Series
Quick view of event calendars and offerings by one host
Veterans Harvest
The National AgrAbility Project is hosting a five-session virtual conference for veterans in agriculture from 1–2:30 p.m. on July 27 and August 3, 7, 10 and 24. Veterans Harvest: A Virtual Conference for Veterans in Agriculture will feature Maine AgrAbility veteran outreach coordinator Anne Devin on August 10 with “Programming for Veterans in Agriculture: How Maine Does It.” Additional topics include one veteran’s transition to farming, veteran farmer health, USDA support for veterans and a panel presentation on state and regional programs for farmer veterans. The conference is free; registration is required by July 22. Register with the National AgrAbility Project to receive the participant link, get more information or request a reasonable accommodation. Maine AgrAbility, a collaborative project of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and Alpha One, is dedicated to helping farmers, fishermen and forest workers work safely and more productively. For more information, contact 207-944-1533, leilani.carlson@maine.edu.
Art Shows in Roque Bluffs
The Roque Bluffs Art Gallery and Learning Center is proud to present this 2021 season’s Art Show Schedule. All shows will be at the Roque Bluffs’ Community Center. 4 Schoppee Point Road, Roque Bluffs, from 10 am to 4 pm on the following days:
- July 31, 2021 All Things Roque Bluffs
- August 14, 2021 All Things Art
- September 4, 2021 Flowers and Scenery
- September 18, 2021 All Art Black & White – Last Show of the Season
Downeast Pride Events this Summer
G.E.A.R. Statewide Workshops
4-H Fridays on the Farm
University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H is offering a new hands-on summer learning series focused on Maine agriculture for ages 12–18. Participants in the four-session “ 4-H Fridays on the Farm” program will take a tour of each participating farm’s operations, gain hands-on experience and learn what different farms across the state contribute to the Maine food system. This is the first in a planned series of educational programs from the Maine 4-H Agricultural Leadership Ambassador Program. The first session will be held from 9 a.m.–noon July 16 at Mulberry Farms, 96 North Raymond Road, Raymond. MOFGA-certified Mulberry Farms specializes in organic fruits and vegetables. All sessions are scheduled 9 a.m.–noon. Others visits include:
- Sustainable vegetable grower Rustic Roots Farm,120 Vipah Lane, Farmington on July 23.
- Seed potato developer Seed Pro Inc., 21 ME-159, Crystal on July 30.
- Tenth-generation dairy farm Brigeen Farms, 278 Upper Street, Turner on Aug. 6.
The series is free and includes materials; current 4-H enrollment is not required. Register for individual sessions on the program webpage. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Sara Conant, 207-781-6099; sara.conant@maine.edu.
Preserving the Maine Harvest
University of Maine Cooperative Extension will offer a new series of monthly webinars about preserving Maine foods beginning with one scheduled for noon–12:45 pm June 15. “Preserving the Maine Harvest” begins with a session about drying, or dehydrating, food as a preservation method. Webinars to follow will focus on boiling water bath canning, pressure canning, fermenting and more. Instructors share recipes and techniques in an interactive format in this series that continues through the fall. Registration is required; a $5 fee per session is optional. Register on the program webpage to receive the link and resources. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Kate McCarty, 207-781-6099; kate.mccarty@maine.edu.
Facts VS Myths about Vapes workshop
Healthy Acadia is hosting a FREE Facts VS Myths about Vapes workshop every month (see poster for schedule). Any pitching you could provide to your families, friends, school contacts, family groups etc would be greatly appreciated.
4-H At-Home Aquaponics Project
University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H is partnering with the University of Maine Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research and UMaine Aquaculture Research Institute to offer a 4-H At-Home Aquaponics Project, an experiential learning program for youth ages 9–18 delivered virtually from June 15 to October. The project includes learning experiences in introductory aquaponic systems and design, fish husbandry, aquaponic gardening, cooking and nutrition and more. With program leaders as mentors, youth complete their individual projects at home and are also members of a statewide group participating in the project together. Prior experience with aquaponics is not required. All project information will be provided; some materials will be required before the project starts. Enrollment is limited to 10 participants. Register and find more information on the aquaponics project webpage. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Carla Scocchi, 207-667-8212; carla.scocchi@maine.edu.
Recovery Coaching Basics
Healthy Acadia is excited to offer 12 free CCAR Recovery Coaching Basics training from 9 am–2 pm. CEUs and contact hours provided. Download flyer for dates and other details.
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Serial Classes & Groups
Classes, play groups, support circles and other repeating events
Survive & Thrive
Sunrise Opportunities Prevention Council is presenting Survive & Thrive — a virtual training series for parents of children 5-12 on Tuesdays at 5 pm between July 20th and August 10th. See flyer for details.
BHP Training
Washington County Adult Education is partnering with Woodfords Family Service to offer an online Behavioral Health Professional training program. The training will prepare community members for employment though local social services agencies. The program can be started at any time and finished at your own pace. The course requires completion of 12 online modules, then two 4-hour live sessions. Once the modules are completed, enrollees will receive free online blood borne pathogen training and virtual First Aid & CPR training if they do not already possess those certifications. The entire training requirements will take about 45 hours. Course fee is $25. Must be 18 or older and have a high school diploma or equivalent to register. Contact Cassidy Stevens to sign up at classes@aetc.us or call 370-4139.
Downeast Rainbow Alliance 10 minute Self-Care Zoom
Free, Virtual Parent Support Groups
Sunrise Opportunities Prevention Council offers a variety of parent support groups. All are free, held virtually and open to the community. It’s a wonderful place to meet other families and talk about your successes and challenges in an open environment. Download flyer. To register or for more information please contact Monica Olivares at 263-5270. Use Zoom ID: 384-800-5813 and Password: Support to attend these Zoom groups:
- Circle of Parents: Parenting in Recovery, every Monday at 11:30 am-12:30 pm
- Circle of Parents: General Parent Support Group, 1st and 3rd Thursdays at 4:30pm-5:30pm
- Circle of Parents: Parents with children who have special needs, 2nd and 4th Mondays of the Month at 5:00pm-6:00pm
The Prevention Council also offers virtual playgroups! All are free, held virtually and open to the public.
Get a chance to meet other parents in your area and talk about the ups and downs of parenthood. To register or for more information please contact Monica Olivares at 263-5270 (use same Meeting ID and Password above):
- Calais Area Virtual Playgroup– Every Tuesday at 10am – new time (see flyer)
- Machias Area Virtual Playgroup – Every Wednesday at 10 am – new time (see flyer)
Monday Night Music
Cobscook Institute’s longstanding Monday Night Music Circle is taking place weekly over Zoom during the pandemic. Community members near and far are invited to drop-in to participate or simply listen. Staff is available to provide tech support for anyone that needs it. Details here.
Workforce Certificate in
Substance Use Disorder & Recovery
Washington County Community College is excited to announce a free program in Substance Use Disorder & Recovery that results in a certificate and 30 credit hours transferable to their Associate of Applied Science in Health and Human Services degree. Successful completion also meets requirements to apply to sit for the Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor exam. See flyer for details. Technology resources are available for students without access to wireless and/or tablets, as well as potential student supports from partner services.
FrontLine WarmLine
Maine DHHS is launching a volunteer support service to Help Maine’s Health Care Workers and First Responders Manage Emotional Toll of COVID-19 — FrontLine WarmLine. Read the full press release here.
Daily Virtual Recovery Support
The Downeast Recovery Support Center is offering daily virtual recovery support meetings Monday through Friday from 10-11 am and 4-5 pm. Open discussion, all recovery meeting are for individuals impacted by substance use disorder or affected others. Visit their facebook page for more information. To join a group by Zoom:
https://amhc.zoom.us/j/373022686…
Meeting ID: 373 022 686
Password: 091927
One tap mobile
+13126266799,,373022686# US (Chicago)
+19292056099,,373022686# US (New York)
Caregiver Monday:
An Initiative Dedicated To Helping Caregivers Take Care of Themselves
The Monday Campaigns, a nonprofit public health initiative, has announced Sherri Snelling, caregiving expert and corporate gerontologist, is taking a leading role with Caregiver Monday, a program dedicated to supporting the self-care of 65 million family caregivers by offering weekly health and wellness practices, research and collaborative activities through partner organizations. Family caregivers are under added stress now, with older people being more vulnerable to COVID-19. The Caregiver Monday program will be offered through Caregiving Club, a leading organization founded by Snelling that calls attention to the issues facing caregivers by offering practical health, wellness and resource-based information. Every month, the program will offer a themed article with evidence-based research information on specific topics related to caregiver self-care, as well as provide weekly practices and health promotions related to that monthly theme. Organizations supporting the campaign can access these materials on the updated Caregiver Monday site.
Caregivers Facebook Group
The CCC is launching a private facebook group for caregivers in Washington County – professional caregivers like RNs and CNAs, and informal caregivers like family members providing care for a spouse, parent, specials needs child, sibling or the neighbor across the street. Our goal is for this group to provide a platform for caregivers to talk to each other, ask questions, offer solutions based on experience with similar challenges, and point to helpful resources. Use this link to join.
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Standing Meetings & Calendars
Monthly and quarterly meetings, agency/initiative calendars at a glance and other meeting schedules
Maine Roads to Quality
Our Community of Practice meetings continue in Washington County! We have combined our Calais and Machias groups, and are meeting as the Downeast Regional Community of Practice every month on the 4th Monday via Zoom. Please contact MRTQ District Coordinator Theresa Fisk for more information: theresa.fisk@maine.edu or 207-956-2070.
WC Food Pantry Network (WCFPN) Meeting Notice
2021 Pantry Network Meeting Dates by Zoom, fourth Thursdays quarterly, 1-2:30 pm. Next meeting:
- Thursday, October 28, 2021 at 1 pm. Seacoast has offered to host at the Maine Seacoast Mission’s community building. LIVE!! IN-PERSON!!! More information to come.
Downeast Public Health Council Meetings
Schedule for Downeast Public Health Council Meetings in 2021, for Downeast Public Health Council Members and Stakeholders: Third Friday of the month in January, March, May, July, September, and November 2021. Meetings will be virtual until in-person meetings are allowed.
Work Group & Poverty Busters
This is a meeting of direct service providers to share resources and network with other providers in your area. This group meets on the first Wednesday of the month from 1 — 3 pm. We are skipping the month of August (vacations, family visits) and will next meet on September 1st. Virtual or hybrid format tbd. Read notes from the July 7th meeting. Send your questions about this meeting to Christine.
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Needs & Offers
Send us your agency/community needs or offers, such as job recruiting
or housing needs.
DCP Needs Your Help
Downeast Community Partners (DCP) is conducting a Community Needs Assessment, in conjunction with the nine other community action agencies in Maine. We are inviting you to participate in this important project by taking a short survey. We value your opinions and would greatly appreciate your insights. The community-wide survey results will help DCP better understand what challenges and barriers people in our community might face. The responses are confidential, and the survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete online. The survey is available in multiple languages. Survey participants will have the opportunity to win a $100 gift card!
Please click here to begin the survey. If you interact with community members as part of your work, please feel free to let them know about this survey, and encourage their participation. It is important that we hear the voices in Washington and Hancock counties.
Free School Meals for All Maine Kids!
This announcement comes from Healthy Acadia’s Community Health News – July 13, 2021:
This month, Maine became one of the first states to fully fund school meals for all students! The new two-year state budget signed by Maine Governor Janet Mills will allow EVERY Maine student to eat school meals for FREE. This recent study shows that school meal programs are one of the best sources of nutritious food in the country. Thanks to the people ordering food, planning menus, and preparing hot meals, school children are offered a healthy array of vegetables, protein, fruits, and whole grains that follows good nutrition guidance. Hooray that no child in Maine will need to learn on an empty stomach!
SNAP-Ed educators at Healthy Acadia offer year-round cooking and nutrition classes in partnership with schools and organizations throughout Hancock and Washington counties. To learn more or schedule a class, contact Allie in Washington County or Jada and Nicole in Hancock County!
Foster Grandparent Program
The Foster Grandparent Volunteer program provides opportunities for seniors to get involved in their community by sharing their time with children who benefit from additional nurturing support. The program is for income-eligible volunteers, aged 55 and over, who are able to volunteer 15 to 40 hours with children in one-on-one and small group settings. Foster Grandparents volunteer in sites such as schools, child care centers, and Head Start centers. Benefits include a stipend for hours volunteered, paid holidays, earned time, and assistance with transportation and meals. Please call 1-800-215-4942. for an application.
Flaherty Center accepting Summer & Fall Applications
The Flaherty Early Childhood Education Center on UMM’s Campus is now accepting applications for the summer and fall. Flaherty ECEC enrolls children 6 mos to 5 years old. Call Enrollment at 664-2424 or Flaherty ECEC 255-1441, or visit their Facebook page.
FFD Evening Staff Positions Still available
Downeast Community Partners (DCP) is still currently recruiting the following staff for the evening childcare program of Family Futures Downeast in Calais and Machias:
- Food Service Technician, Calais – 8 hours per week; Tuesday and Thursday 3:00-7:00PM
- Food Service Technician, Machias – 8 hours per week; Tuesday and Thursday 3:00-7:00PM
- Lead Infant/Toddler Caregiver, Calais- 10 hours per week; Tuesday and Thursday 4:00-9:00PM
Seeking Overnight Coverage at Recovery Residence
Safe Harbor Recovery Residence for Women and Children, located in Machias, has an immediate opening for overnight coverage. We are seeking a small group of volunteers, and will provide stipends, training, and potential for long-term engagement with the residence and with Healthy Acadia. See flyer for details.
Part-time Adult Basic Education Instructor/
Workforce training and Readiness Coordinator
Washington County Adult & Community Education is looking for a candidate with an undergraduate or higher college degree. This position will be teaching students that need to review or learn skillsets to enter high school level classes. College and Career Preparation will be the other population of students supported by this position. The other responsibilities will be working with the Director on workforce development and training programming along with working as part of the marketing committee. Skills that are desired are good communication skills, writing various types of documents such as lessons for students, marketing documents, etc. Basic computer skills including Microsoft Word, and social media platforms. We can train in these areas if needed. Career pathways are a series of connected education and training strategies and support services that enable individuals to secure employment within a specific occupational sector and to advance over time to successively higher levels of education and employment in that sector. Each step on a pathway is designed to prepare the participant for the next level of education and employment. Workforce development aligns adult education and the labor market. Please send resume to: jane.blackwood@aetc.us.
LCOC is Recruiting for Youth Serving Positions
Lubec Community Outreach Center is accepting applications for full time, seasonal Youth Programs Manager and Youth Program Assistants for the 2021 Summer Recreation and Enrichment Program. Download this flyer for more information and how to apply.
AgrAbility offers free fuel identification stickers
Maine AgrAbility has designed fuel identification stickers for use on farm tractors to help prevent potential mechanical issues and production downtime if the wrong fuel is mistakenly used. Request free fuel identification stickers and view all available safety stickers on the Maine AgrAbility website. For more information about the program, call 207.944.1533 or email maine.agrability@maine.edu.Maine
Finding Our Way Down East – Virtual Race 2021!
Wayfinder Schools are excited to announce that registration is now open for Finding Our Way Down East – our Summer ’21 virtual race! You can choose the full summer Kittery to Calais race, or opt for one of the shorter routes and complete your miles in June, July or August. Sign up today! There is still time to become a sponsor for this event. Please contact us at info@wayfinderschools.org for more information. Share event information with your running groups, cycle classes, personal trainer, local gym, etc. and help us get the word out about this new event!
Mission Scholarships 2021
The Maine Seacoast Mission’s scholarship programs help recent high school graduates and adults from Maine islands and Downeast communities continue their educations and achieve their dreams. Our scholarships support students of many different backgrounds, especially students who will be the first members of their families to attend college. Students meeting our selection criteria are welcome to reapply each year, for up to four years. To apply for one of the available scholarships a student must have: an expected family contribution not exceeding $15,000, a minimum 2.5 GPA; a student must be a high school graduate from Washington/ Hancock Counties, or an island served by the Mission, and participate in an interview. Here is the application form with specific requirements for each Mission scholarship.
New Website for Start Up Downeast
Start Up Downeast now has a new website with a recording of the program overview available, and a place for interested participants to request an application for their open enrollment. This program is designed to improve economic outcomes for individuals in low-income households by providing access to post-secondary education while developing financial and self-employment readiness skills. Success will be achieved through coaching, advising, workforce and business development support, and barrier removal.
The CCC and Women for Healthy Rural Living have teamed up to help support up to 75 families who wish to grow a garden. In addition to the seeds, we offer a blog called Seeds and Sprouts with information, ideas and support that can help you throughout the season. We have seed collections in three convenient sizes for families in Downeast Maine. These seeds are intended for any Washington County family with children who would like to have a vegetable garden, but find it a hardship to purchase seeds at this time. Learn more here.
FFD Accepting Applications for Cohort 6
Do you want to attend college but do not know where to begin? If you have a child under 8 years old and are a Washington County Resident, Family Futures Downeast may be able to assist you. Contact us today for more information! Email Angela, call/text 812-2005, or check out our website!
Peer Specialist Opening in WC
SUD Patient Navigator
The Regional Medical Center at Lubec Northern Maine HIV Program is excited to add a new staff member to the team and tailor this outreach service to meet the needs of people living in Washington County. If you know someone who is passionate about reducing overdose deaths in our community and supporting those wishing to begin their journey of recovery, please pass this along and feel free to contact Erica Famous, Director of HIV Programs, with any questions. Read Job description here.
Get up to Speed
The Maine Broadband Coalition is launching a statewide speed test mapping initiative. The goal of the “Get Up To Speed” initiative is to gather data from across the state to generate the most comprehensive map of both the presence and quality of internet in Maine to date. Residents are being asked to help the initiative by taking this less-than-a-minute test to map their own speed through the Maine Broadband Coalition’s website. We strongly encourage you to share this link with your community, so that we can get the most accurate map possible. The Maine Broadband Coalition will aggregate, document, and visualize the speed testing information to provide users and state officials with up-to-date service maps. Participants can view their results (while personal information remains confidential) and watch the public map of Maine grow in real time.
Q+ Youth connect on Discord
The Downeast Rainbow Alliance (DRA) and Healthy Acadia have joined together to create a new forum for LGBT2Q+ youth, ages13-22, to connect. “Downeast Q+ Discord” is available 24 hours a day for peer to peer support. Discord is a secure online server that is often used as a communication tool for gaming communities. There are youth and adult moderators present in the space for safety. Q+ youth need open and affirming environments and time and time again we find that our schools are not able to create a reliable network of Q+ youth,” says Anne Shields Hopkins, lead administrator for the DRA. “Being affirmed of your identity as LGBT2Q+ can literally be life saving. This project is being created out of that need.” Join the server or contact Corrie Hunkler with questions.
Narcan by Mail
Healthy Acadia is now offering free Narcan through the mail (or a person can schedule a time to pick it up). Use this link to a Google form to request this service. Please share this information.
Safe Harbor Accepting Applications
Safe Harbor, a recovery residential program in Machias, is now accepting applications! Safe Harbor was created in partnership with Healthy Acadia, The Community Caring Collective, Downeast Community Partners, and Aroostook Mental Health Center. Our mission is to provide safe, supportive, housing for women in recovery and their children. This program is appropriate for women (18 years or older) with or without children who self identify as in recovery from substance use disorder. We require a negative screen for alcohol, THC, and medications or drugs not prescribed by a doctor upon admission. We also require an ability to pay rent, however temporary scholarships may be available. Most importantly applicants are expected to show a commitment to recovery and personal growth as well as a willingness to actively engage in recovery goal settings. Our residence features 5 furnished units, 3 full bathrooms, and a kitchen fully stocked with cooking supplies and plenty of room for food storage. Thanks to community support, Safe Harbor is well stocked with supplies, furniture, food donations, and a helpful network of recovery resources. See flyer for details.
PTLA Tuesday Eviction Info Sessions
Join Pine Tree Legal Assistance online every Tuesday at 9 am to get your questions answered about eviction. Learn about the process and how it differs right now during the COVID lockdown. See flyer for more information.
Donations Needed for Shelter Guests
NextStep DV Project is gratefully accepting donations of new & unused household items for their shelter guests. See list of items needed. Please contact Marcie or Jasmine to arrange for drop-off of items or for more information.
Social Call Service
The COVID-19 pandemic has created many new challenges. It has also offered an opportunity for our community to come together in support of one another. Healthy Acadia’s Maine RecoveryCorps and MDI Hospital are partnering to respond to the isolation many community members are facing through a new Social Call service.
Social Calls are to be made by trained recovery coaches. Their recovery coach training and background has steeped them in a culture of empathy, support, compassion, and resilience. The callers are able to provide information on resources and offer reflective listening, encouragement, and honesty.
There are several avenues available to request a social call. One may discuss it with their provider who can send a referral on their behalf. The Healthy Acadia website has both on online form and one to print and return. Additionally Beth Alteri is available to 207 – 460 -2312 to take requests over the phone as needed. She can also be reached at socialcalls@healthyacadia.org or receive faxes at 207-331-5423.
Social calls offer an opportunity for connection and can serve to buffer the negative effects of physical distancing. These calls are not intended to replace an individual’s need to connect with their mental health professional, but rather be an additional service for them to tap into. If you or someone you know could benefit from a Social Call please reach out to us. We are here to help.
Sunrise Scholarship Fund
Has your job been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic? For the immediate future, Washington County residents who answer yes to that question are eligible to apply for up to $500 to assist with training that will increase your opportunities for employment regardless of prior income levels! Click here for an application. Visit www.sunrisecounty.org. Call Jen at 255-0983 with any questions.
DCT Offers Virtual Services to Support Opioid Recovery
As a result of new virtual services, same-day access to anyone with opioid use disorder (OUD) who wishes to begin medication assisted treatment (MAT) is now available to anyone across Washington and Hancock counties. In response to the unfolding COVID-19 crisis, the Downeast Treatment Center (DTC) in Ellsworth has begun offering immediate, virtual, rapid access to MAT for all in the Downeast region…. Patients can expect a virtual intake over phone or Zoom, prescriptions called to pharmacies near them; ongoing, remote access to a medical provider, and access to virtual group or individual sessions with a behavioral health provider. Anyone who does not have insurance or who cannot afford their insurance deductibles or copays can apply for financial support from Healthy Acadia’s Treatment Fund. Read the full press release from Healthy Acadia.
If you are Aware of a Senior in Need….
Healthy Acadia would like to share an Eastern Area Agency on Aging link to refer people for all services including the Meals on Wheels program. Please share this information widely!
Free Financial Coaching
Thanks to support from Downeast Community Partners, Joseph Connors has been able to continue offering free coaching on any financial matter to individuals and families in Washington County, following the termination of this program at the end of March by the Consumer Protection Bureau. To make an appointment with Joe, call him at 207-598-5657 or email joe.connors@downeastcommunitypartners.org.
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Favorite Resources
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Search. Find. Help.
Today, a new resource is available to help leaders and staff at organizations serving community-dwelling older adults and their caregivers find resources to support these populations during public health emergencies. Search. Find. Help. is a searchable online library that connects organizations to approximately 300 existing resources that can help older adults and caregivers—ranging from tip sheets to prepare older adults for public health emergencies to tools to identify individuals in a community who need support following a disaster. The resources focus on addressing social isolation, chronic conditions, elder abuse and neglect, caregiver support, delayed medical care and emergency preparedness. Explore Seach. Find.Help.
Us Against Alzheimer’s
On the latest Daughterhood Podcast, Rosanne Corcoran talks with Brooks Kenny the Executive Director of the Women’s Network of “Us Against Alzheimer’s” about their new tool, Brain Guide. Scientists believe that the brain changes seen in Alzheimer’s and dementia may begin many years before symptoms appear. So, it is more important than ever to treat our brains as vital organs and pay attention to our brain health. Brooks was also a long-distance caregiver to her mother-in-law and has practical and innovative tips on long- distance caregiving.
Children and Adolescents Managing Crohn’s Disease
The National Alliance for Caregiving is proud to present Circle of Care: A Guidebook for Caregivers of Children and Adolescents Managing Crohn’s Disease, a new resource designed to help caregivers navigate their journey caring for a child or adolescent with Crohn’s disease. The centralized guidebook offers effective information and tools that have helped other caregivers in similar situations. If you or someone you know cares for a child or adolescent living with Crohn’s disease, make sure to check out the guidebook at www.caregiving.org/guidebooks.
Tick Lab 2020 Surveillance Program
University of Maine Cooperative Extension Tick Lab 2020 Surveillance Program data is now compiled and available on the Maine Tick Data webpage. In 2019, the UMaine Extension Tick Lab began testing tick samples for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis; the three most common tick-borne diseases. In 2020, an additional testing panel was added to screen for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis and tularemia. Also included is new data related to personal protection as well as COVID-related behaviors. More information on different tick species in Maine, tick management, tick-borne diseases, and submitting tick specimens to the lab is available on the tick laboratory website, or by contacting 207-581-3880, 800-287-0279 (in Maine); tickID@maine.edu.
Cooperative Extension Gardening Bulletins
VA Maine Caregiver Support Program
VA Maine’s Caregiver Support Program has been hard at work building wrap-around services for Caregivers of all Veterans! Read our first quarterly newsletter for information about our team, our programs and some of the services we offer. A new newsletter will be coming out in April. The General Caregiver Support Program is similar to case management for caregivers – we check in with them yearly, perform risk assessments and offer services listed below. Please help us get the information and resource out to all staff and caregivers who desperately need support and encouragement! See this brochure for more information.
Daughterhood.org
Daughterhood.org’s mission is to support and build confidence in women who are managing their parents’ care. The daughterhood blog, website and social media links connect you — the care manager — to resources and a wholly unique perspective on our health and elder care systems. Through her writing and curation of resources, daughterhood’s founder, Anne Tumlinson, coaches women and men to insist on excellent care and a meaningful experience for their parents. Daughterhood is what happens when we put our lives on hold to take care of our parents. Unlike motherhood, we don’t expect daughterhood. And, even if we did, it’s shocking how hard and time consuming it is. Daughterhood.org is an incredible resource for caregivers offering informational podcasts with show notes you can download on topics such as Elder Law and 911 Emergency! Now what? The website also offers inspirational blog posts, recommended reading lists, and support on how to start a local support group “daughterhood circle” and private facebook group to stay in communication.
OPTIONS
The Overdose Prevention Through Intensive Outreach Naloxone and Safety (OPTIONS) initiative is a coordinated effort of the Maine Office of Behavioral Health and other state agencies to improve the health of Mainers using substances through harm reduction strategies, helping them on the road to recovery, and dramatically reducing the number of fatal and non-fatal drug overdoses. Visit the OPTIONS website for information on how to respond to an overdose, view data, search for resources by county and topic, listen to personal recovery stories or share your own story.
Connecting with Opportunities
Eastern Maine Development Corporation would like your help sharing the exciting news about Maine’s Connecting with Opportunities Initiative. It’s focused on addressing the opioid crisis by providing support, encouragement and financial resources to people impacted (personally or indirectly) by opioid use disorder. There are lots of resources right now. Participants are needed. This initiative is also available to unemployed workers who haven’t been impacted by opioid use disorder, but want to play a role in addressing the opioid crisis. For these non-impacted individuals, the career paths are focused in the substance use disorder treatment, mental health or recovery fields. Connecting with Opportunities complements Maine’s other workforce development offerings, such as the WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) program. If you know anyone who could benefit from financial assistance and a supportive team to start school, enter a training program or move directly into meaningful employment, please contact opporunitygrant@emdc.org. If you or your organization would like to receive a brief presentation, contact Doug Dunbar (ddunbar@emdc.org).
Seeds & Sprouts
Introducing “Seeds & Sprouts,” a family-friendly garden blog, collaboratively created and edited by Incredible Edible Milbridge and the Community Caring Collaborative. Seeds & Sprouts features monthly posts about family-friendly gardening activities, tips and tricks for your garden, and more. Check us out here.
Child Care Business Lab
CEI is starting an intensive 6-month program to help people interested in starting a child care business in selected counties, including Washington. The program, which starts in March, is called the Child Care Business Lab: we integrate small business start-up education with child care management techniques and coaching through the licensing process. Access to capital in the form of loans is also available. The Child Care Business Lab consists of formal workshops delivered via video, an online, on-demand component, live panels with existing child care providers who provide “been there / done that” insight – and participants work one-on-one with a business advisor and a child care mentor to tailor plans that work for them and their community. CEI Business Advisor Ruth Feldman encourages people to “take a look at the Child Care Business Lab website and let me know if you have any questions. (My colleague @Cynthia Murphy (cynthia.murphy@ceimaine.org), who runs the program, is also happy to answer questions.) I hope you’ll consider applying!” Ruth can be reached at Ruth.Feldman@ceimaine.org.
National Digital Equity Center Upcoming Webinars
What else would you like to learn? Most of our online classes are now offered at various times in the next month. Topics range from learning new devices, programs such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint and more, Using Online Games for Age 55+, Social Media platforms, Word Press, QuickBooks, Online Safety & Much More! Click here to register for upcoming online courses.
AMHC 24-hour Recovery Resource & Support Referral Line
AMHC has launched a 6-month pilot program providing a 24-hour recovery resource and support referral line: 1-833-NVR-GVUP or 207-454-1999. Read more about this here. Share this flyer.
Training and Technical Assistance Related to COVID-19
SAMHSA is committed to providing regular training and technical assistance (TTA) on matters related to the mental and substance use disorder field as they deal with COVID-19. Our TA programs are delivering great resources during this time. View the updated available TTA resources to assist with the current situation. Download flyer for more information.
Neighbor4Neighbor Fund
The “neighbor4neighbor” Fund (n4n) a program of Healthy Acadia, provides one-time mini-grants of up to $500 to seniors in Washington and Hancock counties who are facing any one of many life crises that can arise unexpectedly and for which they may not have adequate funds. n4n funds may be used for eyeglasses, dentures, medical equipment, emergency household repairs, or other one-time challenges which may undermine a senior’s ability to live independently and have a high quality of life. Learn more about n4n here. To apply for a n4n Fund mini-grant, click here.
Financial Planning for Memory Loss Caregivers
“Becoming a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is demanding. You’ll need to help your loved one with daily tasks as well as with financial decisions. Despite the challenges, being a caregiver can also be rewarding. It provides the opportunity to oversee important decisions and to ensure quality support for your loved one. This guide helps caregivers prepare for the expenses associated with caring for someone with memory loss and offers caregiver resources that can help make the journey easier.”
From: Insider.com | June 29, 2020 — See more.
Lois-Ann Kuntz has 2 free WiFi resources to share:
- An updated map of ‘Study-From-Car’ sites where WiFi guest access is available for outside of buildings is now available. For each site, please check the website information provided for availability and connection information.
- The Maine State Library has this on their website a list of libraries that have their WiFi on 24/7 with available parking within range. I don’t see how to sort this by county. https://www.maine.gov/msl/libs/directories/wireless.shtml
Maine Families of Washington County publishes a comprehensive list of free Wi-Fi access in their online community resource guide.
Washington County Recovery Resources
The CCC in collaboration with Healthy Acadia has created a comprehensive, up-to-date list of recovery resources with contact info for Washington County. As we know, services have shifted in light of COVID-19. We want to ensure providers and community members are aware of the current available resources to support individuals impacted by substance use disorder. Here is a link to a “live” document that will be updated regularly. Please keep checking back for the most up-to-date information. We will be adding a Hancock County resource list soon! If you are aware of other recovery resources in Washington County or believe an edit needs to be made to this document, please contact Abby Frutchey at afrutchey@cccmaine.org or Penny Guisinger at penny@healthyacadia.org.
Bolstering General Assistance
Under the Governor’s March 31 Executive Order, all applications for General Assistance will be processed as emergency applications for eligibility purposes, and certain other requirements are waived. The order also allows eligible individuals to reapply after 60 days rather than 30 days for ongoing assistance. General Assistance is funded through communities, with DHHS reimbursing 70 percent of municipalities’ costs. Under the Executive Order, DHHS will use existing funding to increase reimbursement to Maine Tribes to up to 100 percent. General Assistance can be used for basic necessities including food, housing, electricity and medical expenses. Assistance is not provided directly to eligible individuals, but rather it is issued in the form of vouchers used to pay vendors who provide goods and services to eligible individuals.
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About the Wednesday Communique
This is the Community Caring Collaborative’s weekly newsletter where we share announcements about trainings, meetings and other events, including announcements from our collaborative partners. Look for links to meeting minutes and agendas in the Meetings section, training registration forms and flyers in the One-Time Events section, and job postings and announcements about services and programs in the Needs & Offers section. Subscribe here to get the Communiqué. Make sure to add Community Caring Collaborative to your contacts at claurel@cccmaine.org. Gmail users, check for the Communiqué under the Promotions tab.Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list
This mailing goes out every Wednesday, so if you have announcements, please send them to Christine by 5 pm Monday to be included. Thanks!
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