Center for Food Action: Action beyond the Bag: 2018 Impact

Posted on May 16, 2019 by jwatrel

Center for Food Action: Action beyond the Bag: 2018 Impact

Emergency Food:

Through a combination of donated goods, monetary donations, produce grown in CFA’s garden and the 447.792 pounds of food rescued from 12 area supermarkets, CFA supplies 6 area pantries serving thousands of local residents. ($5,000,000 worth of food distributed).

An emergency food package consists of seven days’ worth of food. In 2018, CFA assisted more than 4,600 household a month (64,046 Emergency & holiday food packages).

Several hundred volunteers gathered over two days to assemble more than 3,100 Thanksgiving packages (9,386) Thanksgiving meals).

Weekend Snack Pack and Smile Packs were distributed to children in 14 area elementary schools (32,215 Weekend Snack meals).

In 2018, CFA helped 823 households with rent, security deposits, utility and heating bills ($760,000 in rental, utility and heating assistance).

The impact we made in 2018 is a direct result of the hundreds of dedicated volunteers who gave so generously of their time (37,508 hours).

For more information, please contact Patricia Epsy, Executive Director/pespy@cfanj.org

192 West Demarest Avenue

Englewood, NJ  07631

(201) 569-1804

http://www.cfanj.org

Hackensack/Mahwah/Ringwood/Saddle Brook/Bergen Community College

CFA Programs:

Emergency Food: Once a month households receive food for about 28 meals, including a substantial amount of fresh produce, meat, frozen vegetables and dairy, along with other basics. Diapers, adult briefs, pets food and cleaning and personal care items are also given, as needed.

Thanksgiving Packages:  Turkeys and all the traditional Thanksgiving foods are given to families for the holiday.

Weekend Snack Pack: Each Friday during the school year, CFA delivers packs of nutritious  foods to area schools so that children who are eligible for free and reduced price school meals do not go hungry on weekends.

Smile Pack: A pack containing a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, etc. are given to children as part of the Weekend Snack Pack program each school year.

Dinner4Seniors: Provides low-income seniors an extra four complete dinners.

Diabetic Food: Low-sugar, low-salt packages for people who are on special diets.

Homeless Prevention, Heating and Utility Assistance: CFA prevents evictions and the disconnection of utilities by paying security deposits, rents and heating and utility bills on behalf of households in need of short-term assistance.

CFA Garden: As part of our effort to improve the quality of food our clients receive, CFA has a garden on site. Adult volunteers and school groups maintain the three-season garden.

Case Management:  CFA values the human connection we have with clients and provides them with individual support including information, referrals, counseling and advocacy.

Nutrition, Budgeting and Health: In conjunction with various health departments, local chefs and hospitals and the Englewood Community Chest CFA offers workshops on nutrition, budgeting and health.

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the CFA pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. Please call the above numbers for more information on the programs.

 

Posted in Center for Food Action Programming, Corporate Programming for the public, Food and Nutrition Programming, New Jersey State Program, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Center for Food Action: Weekend Snack Pack Program-Because Hunger does not take the weekend off

Posted on May 16, 2019 by jwatrel

Center for Food Action: Weekend Snack Pack Program-Because Hunger does not take the weekend off

CFA’s Weekend Snack Pack Program

Many children who receive free or reduced-price school meals are left without adequate nutrition on weekends and holidays breaks.

CFA’s Weekend Snack Pack Program is designed to fill this gap by providing healthy, kid-friendly and easy to prepare foods to children at risk of weekend hunger.

On Friday, a Ziploc bag of nutritious food is placed into the backpacks of children who participate in the free and reduced-price school meal program.

Center for Food Action:

CFA improves the lives of low-income families and individuals from over 100 towns in northern NJ by administering the following programs:

*Emergency Food Program

*Homelessness Prevention Program

*Weekend Snack Pack Program

*Community Garden Program

*Smile Pack Program

*Young Professional Action Network

*Hunger Free NJ

What’s in a Weekend Snack Pack?

1-2% milk box, 8 oz. non-flavored shelf stable

1 cold cereal-individual serving size box

1 fruit cup or peaches 4 oz.

1 Chef Boyardee or similar 7.5 oz. microwaveable bowl

1 macaroni and cheese 7.25 oz.

1 nutri-grain snack bar 1.3 oz.

How can I help?

  1. With a minimum order of  500 packs CFA will provide the product an materials and organize your packing event at the CFA Saddle Brook site or a location of your choice. CFA will bring the finished packs to our warehouse and deliver them to one of the 14 participating schools. Each snack pack costs $4.50.
  2. You can collect monetary donations and purchase the items from CFA. This is an efficient method because CFA purchases the items in bulk at a discount and you assemble the packs with family and friends at your convenience.
  3. You can collect or purchase the attached list of items, assemble the bags yourself and drop them off at CFA. We will distribute these packs from one of our five locations to families with school-age children in need. Please follow the assembly guidelines to maintain consistency.

Because hunger does not take the weekend off. You can help today!

$4.50 will send 1 child home with a weekend worth of kid-friendly foods.

$22.50 helps 5 children

$45.00 helps 10 children

$225.00 helps 50 children

$450.00 helps 100 children

Online: http://www.cfanj.org

Phone: (201) 569-1804 x25

Mail:

Center for Food Action

192 West Demarest Avenue

Englewood, NJ  07631

Please note: “WSPP”

Questions? lorioliff@cfanj.org

CFA-Center for Food Action

 

 

 

 

Posted in Center for Food Action Programming, Corporate Programming for the public, Food and Nutrition Programming, New Jersey State Program, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

YWCA Bergen County: Healing Space

Posted on May 13, 2019 by jwatrel

YWCA Bergen County: Healing Space

Support-Prevention-Advocacy-Counseling-Empowerment

A sexual Violence Resource Center

24 Hour Hotline:

(201) 487-2227

Eliminating racism empowering women YWCA-Bergen County.

24 Hour Hotline: (201) 487-2227

We provide a confidential 24/7 hotline to survivors of sexual assault and abuse, their families and friends. Support is available to anyone who has experienced sexual violence, whether it happened hours or years ago.

HealingSpace services are available to anyone with concerns about all forms of sexual violence.

Confidential sexual violence advocates are available 24 hours a day, seven day a week to provide:

*Short-term crisis intervention counseling.

*Medical and legal accompaniments to hospital emergency rooms, medical appointments, police/law enforcement agencies and legal proceedings within Bergen County.

*Information about all options including medical attention, reporting, the legal process and sources of support for survivors, family and friends.

*Referrals and community resources for survivors and family members seeking group counseling, long-term counseling, medical legal and/or financial information as well as other community resources.

Individual and Group Counseling:

Individual and group counseling is available for survivors and their loved ones. Separate groups for men and women are available free of charge and individual counseling is offered at a small fee for individuals ages 13 and older. All clinical services are provided by a Master’s level licensed professional with experience in working with survivors of sexual violence.

Community Education/Training:

Our speakers bureau is available to address schools, professional and community groups on issues surrounding all forms of sexual violence. Training is available to professionals and first responders who work directly with survivors and we offer a variety of informational brochures and handouts.

Prevention:

Our goal is to stop sexual violence before it starts and one way to accomplish this is through bystander intervention. Our primary prevention strategy works with local schools and other youth-serving organizations to educate key stakeholders on becoming active bystanders, while promoting a safe and healthy environment for all.

Volunteers:

Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks including office work, public speaking, letter writing, research and direct service provision.

To schedule a speaker or find out more about our service or volunteer opportunities call (201) 487-2227 or visit http://www.ymcabergencounty.org.

Awareness Events: healingSPACE sponsers events throughout the year to help raise community awareness of sexual violence. These include:

Bergen County Clothesline Project:  A powerful display of T-shirts, created by or on behalf of survivors that bears witness to sexual assault, sexual abuse, incest, child abuse, domestic  to violence and death as a result of violence. Call (201) 487-2227 to schedule a display in your school, business or community.

Denim Day: An annual observance held on April 28th dedicated to raising awareness and educating young women and men about consent and the prevention of sexual violence.

The Art of Healing: An Exhibit of Survivors Artwork & Poetry: An event featuring an art exhibit and poetry reading that seeks to acknowledge the pain of survivors of sexual victimization, celebrate their healing process and develop a sense of community among concerned individuals.

Sexual Violence is:

*Sexual activity where consent is not obtained or freely given.

*Perpetrated by someone the survivor knows. Approximately 70%-80% of survivors know their attacker in some way.

*The responsibility of the offender, not the survivor. No person “asks for” or provokes sexual assault by acting or dressing in a particular manner.

*Not an act of lust. The offender’s motive is not sexual gratification but to control, humiliate and/or degrade a person.

*The most under-reported crime. The FBI estimates that only 1 in 10 rapes are reported.

*A serious problem that affects survivors in significant ways over their lifetime, including long-term health problems. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and depression.

Sexual Assault Can Happen:

*At any time, night or day.

*Anywhere: at home, on a date, in a car or in a public place.

*To any person; regardless of sex, gender identity, age, race, sexual orientation, appearance, religion, occupation or educational level.

If you are sexually assaulted:

*Get to a safe place.

*Call healingSPACE for support and information.

*Consider obtaining medical attention to assess for and treat potential injuries.

*Consider notifying the police or activating the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART). (IF you plan to pursue prosecution, do not bathe, shower, douche, change clothes, eat, drink, smoke or urinate for the purposes of evidence preservation).

Myths and facts about Sexual Violence:

Myth: Most sexual assaults are committed by strangers:

In reality the majority of the time the offender is someone that the victim knows. Victims are someone that the victim knows. Victims are usually coerced, manipulated, tricked or threatened by someone they are acquainted with. One study found that 84% of women who were raped knew their attacker and for 57% of those women, the offender was a first date or romantic acquaintance.

Fact: Alcohol or drugs increase a person’s vulnerability to sexual assault.

Alcohol and drugs can increase anyone’s vulnerability. In one study, 75% of males and 55% of females were under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the sexual assault occurred.

Myth: Men cannot be sexually assaulted.

Anyone can be victimized. 1 in 6 boys under the age of 18 are sexually assaulted. It has also been estimated that 10% of all men have been sexually assaulted. Because of social stigma however, male sexual victimization is vastly underreported.

Fact: The most common place for sexual violence to occur is in the survivor’s home.

The second most common place is the offender’s home, because the offender is usually someone the victim knows. Many people think that sexual assaults happen in dark, abandoned places but the greatest risk lies where we feel the safest.

Fact: Most of the time, sexual assault is planned.

Sexual assault is not an impulsive act. It is a single offender, it is planned 60% of the time; gang attacks are planned 90% of the time.

Myth: Perpetrators are deranged, psychopathic, under-educated men from poor backgrounds.

Sex offenders are found in all socioeconomic classes. Offenders can be anyone: doctors, lawyers, the homeless, blue-collar workers, classmates, co-workers, etc.

For more information contact our 24 hour hotline: (201) 487-2227

YWCA Bergen County’s Healing SPACE

Mission: To empower survivors of all forms of sexual violence through support, advocacy, counseling and resources necessary to lay the foundation for the healing process and to prevent sexual violence through education, training and awareness to create a safe community for all.

214 State Street, Suite 207

Hackensack, NJ  07601

Office: (201) 881-1700

Fax: (201) 487-5990

Email: healingSPACE@ywcabergencounty.org

http://www.ywcabergencounty.org

YWCA: The YWCA Bergen County is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

Disclaimer: This information was taken from the YWCA pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. Please call the above numbers for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Depression Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Sexual Assault and Violence Help Programming, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Social Security: When someone misuses your number

Posted on May 9, 2019 by jwatrel

Social Security: When someone misuses your number

Your Social Security number is personal to you. It is the key to your Social Security earnings record and you’re the only person with that Social Security number. When someone misuses your number, it generally means they’re pretending to be you-they assume your identity. And when someone pretends to be you, they can wreak havoc with your life.

If you think you are victim of identity theft, this leaflet explains:

*how you can find out if someone is using your number to work

*what you should do to report this misuse

*what to do if you have credit problems because someone used your Social Security number to obtain credit

*how to get a new Social Security number

It may be easy to steal your number:

You may not realize how easy it is for someone to get access to information about you. Identity thieves get your personal information by:

*stealing wallets and purses, your mail (bank and credit card statements, pre-approved credit offers, telephone calling cards and tax information):

*stealing personal information you provide to an unsecured site on the Internet from business or personal records at work and personal information in your home.

*rummaging through your trash and business trash for personal data

*posing as someone who legitimately and legally need information about you such as employers and landlords

*buying personal information from ‘inside’ sources

Be careful with your Social Security number and card to prevent their theft. Show your card to your employer when you start a job, so your records are correct. Then, put it in a safe place-don’t carry your card with you.

Is someone misusing your number?

Do you suspect that someone is using your number? You may have noticed unexplained charges on your phone bill or credit card statement. Maybe your wallet or purse was stolen.

One way to find out whether someone is using your number to work is to check your earning record. If you’re age 25 or older and not already receiving Social Security benefits, you’ll automatically receive a Social Security Statement each year. The Statement lists earnings posted to your Social Security record and provides an estimate of benefits you and your family may be eligible to receive now and in the future. You should receive your statement about three months before your birth month.

If you don’t receive a statement, you can ask for one by submitting a Request for Social Security Statement (Form 7004). To get a Form 7004:

*Download the form from the Internet at http://www.ssa.gov/online/ssa-7004-pdf.

*Call our toll-free number 1-800-772-1213

*Visit your local Social Security Office

After you complete the form and return it to us, you can expect to receive your statement in 4 to 6 weeks You should call and tell us right away if there are any errors or if you have any of the problems listed below:

*You have missing or incorrect earnings. If possible, have your W-2 or tax return for those years available.

*Your name is listed incorrectly. We’ll need to see a document with your name spelled correctly.

*Your date of birth is listed incorrectly. We’ll need current identification and an original source document-such as your birth certificate indicating the correct date.

What should I do to report that someone is using my Social Security number?

You should report this information to the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. Depending on the circumstances of your particular care, we may open an investigation. Even if we don’t investigate, we’re interested in learning how your Social Security number has been used by someone.

What if I have credit problems?

If someone has used your Social Security number to get credit, Social Security cannot fix your credit record. To resolve your credit problems, you need to:

*Immediately contact the creditors who approved the credit (follow up with a letter).

*File a police report.

*Contact the fraud department of the major credit bureaus.

*Ask to have a flag placed on your record, requiring creditors to contact your before approving additional credit using your name and number. Ask how long the flag is posted on your account and how you can extend it, if necessary.

*Add a victim’s statement to your report; include your name, state the problem and provide a telephone number where you can be reached.

*Request a copy of your credit report from each major credit bureau and check for signs of fraudulent activity. If you’ve been denied credit, you may be entitled to a free copy of your report. If you haven’t been denied credit, the most you can be charged is $8.00.

The major credit reporting agencies are:

Equifax

http://www.equifax.com

Report fraud: 1-800-525-6285

Order a credit report: (800) 685-1111

P.O. Box 740256

Atlanta, GA 30374-0241

Experian

http://www.experian.com

Report fraud: 1-888-397-3742

Order a credit report:

(888) EXPERIAN (397-3742)

P.O. Box 1017

Allen, TX  75013-0949

Trans Union

http://www.tuc.com

Report fraud: 1-800-680-7289

Order a credit report: (800) 916-8800

Fraud Victim Assistance Department

P.O. Box 6790

Fullerton, CA  92834

To remove incorrect information from your records, you should contact and follow up with a letter with each involved:

*credit bureau

*creditor

*employer and

*government agency.

You’ll want to check your credit report annually for errors. Keep copies of:

*your correspondence

*records of your telephone calls and

*other documents showing your efforts to correct the problem.

Can I get a new Social Security number?

If you can prove that you’re being disadvantaged because someone used your Social Security number, visit your local Social Security office to request a new one. If you’ve done all you can yo fix the problem and someone is still using your number, under certain circumstances, we may assign you a new number. We can’t guarantee, however, that a new number will solve your problem.

A new Social Security number will NOT be assigned to you:

*intend to avoid the law or your legal responsibility.

*commit fraud or a criminal action.

*intend to avoid disclosing a poor credit or criminal record.

*file for bankruptcy.

*have lost your Social Security card or it was stolen but there is no evidence that your number is being used by someone and you’re being disadvantaged by that use.

Can I do anything else?

You can file a complaint about identity theft with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Information your provide can help the FTC and other law enforcement agencies track, investigate and prosecute identity thieves. You can file a complaint with the FTC by:

Internet-www.consumer.gov/idtheft

Telephone-1-877-IDTHEFT (438-4338)

TTY-(202) 326-2502

or write to:

Identity Theft Clearinghouse

Federal Trade Commission

600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington DC  20580

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Social Security Administration pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. Please call or email the above numbers for more information on what can help.

Posted in Estate Planning Programming, Federal Caregiver programs, Senior Services, Social Security Programs, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lodi, Hackensack & Teaneck: Great Futures Start Here

Posted on May 8, 2019 by jwatrel

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lodi, Hackensack & Teaneck: Great Futures Start Here

Administrative Offices:

460 Passaic Avenue

Lodi, NJ  07644

(973) 473-7410

http://www.bgcoflodi.org

http://www.bgcofteaneck.org

http://www.bgcotreaneck.org

*We are a 501(c) 3 Charitable Organization* Federal Tax ID#22-1632037

Clubhouse Locations:

Boys & Girls Club of Lodi

460 Passaic Avenue

Lodi, NJ  07644

(973) 473-7410 ext. 101

Boys & Girls Club of Hackensack

Located in the Oratam Housing Complex

170B Sussex Street

Hackensack, NJ  07601

(201) 880-7244 ext. 117

Boys & Girls Club of Teaneck

479 Maitland Avenue

Teaneck, NJ  07666

(201) 945-1236 ext. 501

What do we offer?

*After School Programs

*Summer Camps

*Swimming

*Field Trips

*Basketball

*Recreation

Visit our website for Employment Information:

https://www.bgcoflodi.org/employment-opportunities.html

Volunteer Opportunities:

We are always looking for Motivated & Passionate Individuals who will help us enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

Visit our Website for Volunteer Information:

https://www.bgcoflodi.org/volunteers—interns.html

Mission:

To enable all young people, especially those who need us most to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.

Vision:

Provide a world-calls Club Experience that assures success is within reach of every young person who on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future, demonstrating good character and citizenship and living a healthy lifestyle.

The Formula for Impact

The Formula for Impact is a road map for clubs to help ensure that members achieve our priority outcomes of Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship and Healthy Lifestyle.

It represent the five elements for positive youth development:

  1. A safe positive environment
  2. Fun
  3. Supportive relationships
  4. Opportunities and expectations
  5. Recognition

It also incorporates high yield learning activities, targeted programs and regular attendance.

Power Hour: making minutes count:

Power Hour:

Making Minutes Count helps Club members ages 6-18 achieve academic success by providing homework help, tutoring and high yield learning activities and encouraging members to become self-directed learners. Printed program materials include a resource guide for program coordinators, homework helpers and tutors and a poster sized Power Points chart for tracking and rewarding participants progress.

Tutoring Program: Assisting children in a one on one setting with homework help.

Literacy Leaders: Volunteers will implement story time with grade levels K-1.

Triple Play: Game plan for the body

The “Body” component of Triple Play promotes becoming more physically active through fun daily fitness routines. Curricula/programs include Daily Challenges and Triple Play Leadership Clubs (formerly Sports Clubs). These resources encourage youth to become more physically active through fun fitness routines. Triple Play Leadership Clubs infuse small-group leadership and service into active play.

Gym: Volunteers will assist the Gym Director with group activities in after school program.

Recreational Basketball League: Volunteers need as referees.

Healthy Habits is the “Mind” component of the Triple Play program. The Healthy Habits curricula is designed to teach young people about the benefits of developing healthy habits such as eating smart and being physically active; equip young people with skills to adopt healthier habits by participating in fun and engaging learning activities both at the Club and at home; and encourage young people to take small steps toward positive behavior changes. The program, for ages 6 to 15 is the Mind component of Triple Play: A Game Plan for the Mind, Body and Soul.

The “Soul” component of the Triple Play program encompasses the social recreation activities that are critical to positive youth development. This includes strengthening interpersonal skills, positive behavior and good character through social recreation programs.

National Fine Arts Exhibit:

National Fine Arts: This year round program encourages artistic expression among Club members ages 6 to 18 through drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, mixed media and sculpture displayed at local and regional exhibits.

Using the interactive National Fine Arts Program Guide, staff can guide youth through the various art projects with step by step instructions and instructural videos. A panel of distinguished judges selects works for inclusion in the National Fine Arts Exhibit, which is displayed throughout the ensuing year at BGCA events, including the annual National Conference. Visit our National Fine Arts Exhibit which highlights the artistic talents of our Club members. Enjoy!

Mentoring:

Mentoring Program: Become a positive adult in a child’s life and expand his/her world by spending time in the community together. Mentor and Mentee are matched based on interests, hobbies and compatibility. This mentoring program also has an academic component; mentors are expected to provide additional reading help to their mentees twice a month. Mentors are free to plan and implement their own reading strategies or work with the Educational Director to ensure that mentees are improving in their reading skills.

Passport to Manhood:

Passport to Manhood consists of 14 sessions each concentrating on a specific aspect of character and manhood through highly interactive activities. Each Club participant receives his own ‘passport’ to underscore the notion that he is on a personal journey of maturation and growth. The program includes a service project where boys learn the importance of giving back to the community. Passport to Manhood represents a targeted effort to.

Smart Girls:

SMART GIRLS: offers young women ages 8 to 17 guidance toward healthy attitudes and lifestyles, eating right, staying fit, getting good health care and more.

Encouraging young women to have healthy attitudes and lifestyles, SMART Girls helps them reach their full potential. Through dynamic sessions, group activities, field  trips and mentoring opportunities with adult women, Club girls enjoy the opportunity to build skills for eating right, staying  physically fit, getting good health care and developing positive relationships.

Other topics addressed include how the media influences attitudes about females; date rape and sexual harassment; sexually transmitted diseases; sexual myths and truths; getting regular gynecological care and physical and emotional changes girls’ experiences.

Smart Moves:

The program uses a team approach involving Club staff, peer leaders, parents and community representatives. More than simply emphasizing a “Say No” message, the program teaches young people ages 6 to 15 how to say no by involving them in discussion and role-playing, practicing resistance and refusal skills, developing assertiveness, strengthening decision-making skills and analyzing media and peer influence. The ultimate goal; to promote abstinence from substance abuse and adolescent sexual involvement through the practice of responsible behavior.

Positive Action:

Positive Action is a systematic educational program that promotes an intrinsic interest in learning and encourages cooperation among students. It works by teaching and reinforcing the intuitive philosophy that you feel good about yourself when you do positive actions. Out thoughts lead to actions and those actions lead to feelings about ourselves which in turn lead to more thoughts. This program empowers greatness through positive learning, in a growing environment. Positive Action takes into consideration all aspects of a person: Mental, Physical, Intellectual, Emotional and Social.

 

DIY Stem:

The STEM program allows our club members to use their creative and uniquely innovative minds to approach STEM. They are able to be inventive while being fully immersed in our next generations’ problems and aspirations to better our world. Through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics our children can see the world all around us in a different light. Our hands-on activities range depending on the topic of the week. A few of our activities that the club members have immersed themselves in are as follows: Waterbotics, Volcanoes, “The Egg Drop Challenge”, the APP project etc.

KEYSTONE: The Ultimate Teen Program

Keystone Clubs:

This unique leadership development experience provides opportunities for young people ages 14 to 18. Youth participate, both in and out of the Club, in activities in three focus areas; academic success, career preparation and community service. With the guidance of an adult advisor, Keystone Clubs aim to have a positive impact on members, the Club and community.

Torch Club:

TORCH CLUB

Torch Clubs are chartered, small group leadership and service clubs for boys and girls ages 11 to 13.

A Torch Club is a powerful vehicle through which club staff can help meet the special character development needs of younger adolescents at a critical stage in their life. Torch Club members learn to elect officers and work together to implement activities in four areas; service to Club and community; education; health and fitness and social recreation. The Staples National Torch Club Awards are presented annually to Torch Clubs with outstanding programs and activities in each area. Each year, Torch Club members from across the country take part in a service learning experience through the National Torch Club Project.

Disclaimer: This information was taken from the Boys & Girls Club pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. Please call the above numbers for more information on their programs. There is a lot to choose from.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Child Program Services, Corporate Programming for the public, Health and Life Support Services, New Jersey Children's Programs, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Bergen County’s Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ARDC)

Posted on May 8, 2019 by jwatrel

Bergen County’s Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ARDC)

http://www.co.bergen.nj.us/division-of-senior-services

https://www.co.bergen.nj.us/division-of-senior-services

https://www.agingcare.com/local/bergen-county-division-of-senior-services-hackensack-area-agency-on-aging-nj

Senior Services:

If you need help and you are:

*an adult 60 years of age or older

*an adult with a disability 18 years of age or older

*a family member-a caregiver-human services or healthcare professional

Call: (201) 336-7400/877-222-3737

Mission Statement:

The Bergen County Division of Senior Services was established in 1966 under Federal Legislation of the Older Americans Act. The Division of Senior Services is the primary planning, coordinating and funding agency for senior programs and services, promoting the well-being, health and independence of Bergen County’s more than 190,000 older adults. The Division targets especially those vulnerable and in greatest social and economic need.

As the lead agency for the Bergen County’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC), the Division helps older adults, individuals with disabilities over the age of 18 and their caregivers, access the complex, long term care, community-based, health and human services.

Resources:

The Division can provide information about links to and assistance with completing applications for available resources below:

*Adult Day Care

*Age-Friendly Community Initiatives (AFCI)

*Benefits Eligibility

*Care Management

*Food Pantries

*Home Care Programs

*Home Modifications

*Housing

*Long Term Care Facilities

*Meals on Wheels

*Medicaid/Other Insurance

*Medicare

*Mental Health

*Pharmaceutical Assistance

*Reverse Mortgage Counseling

*SAVVERS Discount Program

*Senior Activity Centers

*Senior Lunch Program

*Tax Relief

*Transportation

*Wellness Check Program

And much more.

**Many of these programs are mentioned in more length on the this blog, “BergenCountyCaregiver.com”.

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Bergen County’s Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ARDC) pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. Please call or email the above numbers for more information.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Depression Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Housing Programs, Legal Assistance Programs, Medicare/Medicaid Programming, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Prescription Drug Programs, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Driving Programs, Senior Rehabilitation Programming, Senior Services, Senior Transportation Programming, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) may be able to help keep you and your family safe and healthy

Posted on May 7, 2019 by jwatrel

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) may be able to help keep you and your family safe and healthy.

You  or someone you know may be eligible for help with home heating and/or cooking bills.

What is LIHEAP?

LIHEAP is a Federally-funded program that helps low-income households with their home energy bills.

LEIHEAP can help you stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. By doing so, you can reduce the risk of health and safety problems (such as illness, fire or eviction).

The federal government does not provide energy assistance directly to the public. Instead, LIHEAP operates in the 50 States, the District of Columbia, Indian tribes or tribal organizations and the US territories.

Who is eligible to receive LIHEAP assistance?

The LIHEAP program in your community determines if you household’s income qualifies for the program. The LIHEAP program may also require households to meet additional eligibility criteria to receive LIHEAP assistance.*

*The availability of LIHEAP assistance is not guaranteed. Often most of the Federal LIHEAP funds are spent during the winter.

What Assistance does LIHEAP provide?

Your LIHEAP program may be able to offer you one or more of the following types of assistance.

*Bill payment assistance

*Energy crisis assistance

*Weatherization and energy-related home repairs

If you can’t afford to pay your home energy bill, your home may not be safe and you may be at risk or serious illness or injury.

Stay healthy in your home:

Energy assistance is important to all that receive it but more so if someone in your home is elderly, disabled or a young child under 6 years old. These persons are especially as risk for life-threatening illness or death if the home is too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer.

Be safe in your home:

You can face safety risks if you are unable to pay your home energy bills. Some people resort to unsafe methods to keep their homes warm or cool. These include the use of fireplaces, stoves, improperly vented portable heaters, barbecue grills or overloading electrical circuits. These methods are not only fire hazards but also create the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

What information do I need to apply?

You may need the following:

*Recent copies of your utility bills.

*A recent payroll stub or other proof that shows your current gross income.

*Documentation showing income from Social Security, Unemployment Insurance, Pension Funds, disability, etc.

*Final Utility, Termination Notice (if you’ve received a shut-off notice from your energy company).

*Proof of present address (e.g. rent receipt, lease or deed, property tax bill).

*Social Security cards (or numbers) for all persons living in your household.

*Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence.

For more information about LIHEAP and where to apply:

You can call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) project. NEAR is a free service providing information on where you can apply for LIHEAP. You can speak to someone at NEAR Monday through Friday from 7:00am-5:00pm (Mountain Time).

Call the toll-free phone number at: 1-866-674-6327 or send an email to : energy@ncat.org or you can contact your local LIHEAP office at:

http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/liheap/grantees/states.html

The information presented by:

Administration for Children & Families

Office of Community Services

Division of Energy Assistance

Disclaimer: This information was taken from the LIHEAP pamphlet and I give them full credit on the information. Please call them for more information.

 

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Heightened Independence & Progress (HIP): Supporting Independence Living for People with Disabilities

Posted on May 7, 2019 by jwatrel

Heightened Independence & Progress (HIP): Supporting Independence Living for People with Disabilities

What is HIP?

HIP is a non-profit agency run by and for people with disabilities. Its purpose is to promote full inclusion and full accessibility for all people and to enhance the ability of every individual to live and work with maximum independence.

HIP was founded in 1980 as one of the first Centers for Independent Living in New Jersey. Two CILs comprise our umbrella organization, with locations in Bergen and Hudson Counties. We offer a variety of programs and services to people with disabilities through public and private funding. HIP’s work, extends beyond our two counties and several programs have multi-county, statewide and national impact.

HIP is governed by a Board of Trustees and staffed as well by people themselves have disabilities. They understand the needs of their peers and are constantly working within their communities on new approaches to enhance the independence of both individuals and families within our spheres of service.

What does HIP offer?

*Information, referral, advocacy and independent living skills training

*Resource on the Americans with Disabilities Act and other legislation

*Assistance with applications for transportation, housing, food stamps, home energy and other financial entitlement programs

*Funding for disability-related equipment and home modifications

*Care management, linking individuals and families to essential services

*Assistive technology demonstrations and “hands-on” instruction

*Peer support groups

*Leisure times activities

*Hispanic Outreach Program

*Providing Support Coordination services in partnership with the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)

*Multimedia Transcription Service (MTS), which transcribes braille textbooks for students nationwide and other essentials documents for the public and private sectors

What is Independent Living?

Independent Living is based on the philosophy that all people have the right to determine how they can best live, work and play in the community. Centers for Independent Living are consumer-controlled, non-residential organizations that work to make changes in their communities to benefit people with disabilities locally and in the larger society.

Support for Heightened Independence & Progress:

HIP’s services are available to people with disabilities, their families and friends in Bergen and Hudson Counties and beyond. A consumer does not have to be a member of HIP to receive our services. Nevertheless, HIP has actively pursued a membership enrollment effort since its incorporation to provide our participants with a sense of proprietorship and to enable those who benefit from our programs and services to join the effort to extend these services to others. HIP also welcomes as members the families and friends of people with disabilities, professionals and volunteers in the field of disability and members of the community at large.

HIP receives funding from a variety of federal, state and local government agencies and is also financed by contributions from corporations, foundations, member dues and donations and by the gifts of supporters and friends.

How can I participate?

Contact us to learn more about how HIP’s services can help you, your family or the community. You may wish to become involved in our varied activities. You can enhance your own independent living or promote the concept of full inclusion by becoming an active HIP participant.

Heightened Independence & Progress:

Bergen County Central Office

131 Main Street, Suite 120

Hackensack, NJ  07601

Phone: (201) 996-9100

Fax: (201) 996-9422

Email: ber@hipcil.org

http://www.hipcil.org

Hudson County Branch Office

35 Journal Square, Suite 703

Jersey City, NJ  07306

Phone: (201) 533-4407

Fax: (201) 533-4421

Email: hud@hipcil.org

Disclaimer: This information was taken from a HIP pamphlet and I give them full credit on the information. Please call the above numbers for more information.

 

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HIP: Heightened Independence & Progress-Care Management Programs

Posted on May 6, 2019 by jwatrel

HIP: Heightened Independence & Progress-Care Management Programs

For Bergen County, NJ Residents:

Let our team of professional care managers assist you in finding programs and services to meet your needs.

What we do:

Provide assessment direct services, referrals to community-based programs and coordination of services in the following areas:

*Linkage to: Home Care, Respite Care and Caregiver Support

*Assistance in applying for: SSDI, SSI, Medicare, Medicaid, Managed Long Term Support

Services (MLTSS)

*Assistance with applications for: Food Stamps, PAAD, Rental Assistance, Meals on Wheels, utilities and affordable housing.

Provide support for the individual and family. Call us for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Heightened Independence & Progress is a nonprofit Center for Independence Living that assists people to remain independent in the community. Our Care Management Programs are funded by the Bergen County Department of Human Services.

HIP: Heightened Independence  & Progress: A Center for Independence Living for People with Disabilities

http://www.hipcil.org

Bergen County Branch:

131 Main Street, Suite 120

Hackensack, NJ  07601

(201) 996-9100

FAX: (201) 996-9422

TDD: (201) 996-9424

Email:ber@hipcil.org

Hudson County Branch:

35 Journal Square, Suite 703

Jersey City, NJ  07306

(201) 533-4407

FAX: (201) 533-4421

TDD: (201) 533-4409

Email: hud@hipcil.org

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the HIP Program pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information.

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HIP: Heightened Independence & Progress-Rehabilitation Technology Programs

Posted on May 6, 2019 by jwatrel

HIP: Heightened Independence & Progress-Rehabilitation Technology Programs

The Modification Access Project (MAP)

Provides financial assistance to Bergen County residents who have disabilities or are over the age of 60 who require increased access to their homes in order to accommodate disabilities. Such projects can include ramps, widening of doorways, roll-in showers, lifts, automatic door openers and more. Where needed, MAP can also help pay for professional evaluations.

The Special Needs Assistance Program (SNAP)

Assists Bergen County residents with disabilities or those who are over 60 to purchase medical and non-medical equipment and services that can help improve their day to day lives. This type of equipment could include bathroom safety bars, bath benches, walkers, hearing aids, automobile modifications, air conditioners, as well as rental of wheelchairs.

MAP and SNAP are funded by the Bergen County Department of Human Services

New Jersey Polio Network

Aids individuals throughout the state who have been affected by polio. Individuals can apply for grants for such needs as medical evaluations, home modifications, assistive devices and medical transportation costs.

For more information, contact Maria Valentin (201) 996-9100 ext. 18.

Heightened Independence & Progress: A Center for Independent Living for People with Disabilities

http://www.hipcil.org

Bergen County Branch:

131 Market Street, Suite 120

Hackensack, NJ  07601

(201) 996-9100

FAX (201) 996-9422

TDD (201) 996-9424

email: ber@hipcil.org

Hudson County Branch:

35 Journal Square, Suite 703

Jersey City, NJ 07306

(201) 533-4407

FAX: (201) 533-4421

TDD: (201) 533-4409

Email: hud@hipcil.org

Disclaimer: This information was taken from the HIP pamphlet and I give them full credit for the information. Please call the above numbers for more information.

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