The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is amending the 1915 (c) Comprehensive Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver to include the rate-setting provisions outlined in the approved 2020-2021 New York State Budget and make additional operational changes.

This amendment includes:

1. Rate setting changes which include reductions to or elimination of the Occupancy Adjustment for Supervised Residential services, as well as other actions to limit reimbursement where individuals are not in residence.
2. Realignment of the rate setting regions for Community Prevocational Services with the rate settings regions already in use for Community Habilitation services. 
3. Clarification of review process for Community Habilitation service authorization. 
4. Clarification of language regarding service limits for Assistive Technology, Environment and Vehicle Modifications to specify calendar year.
5. Removal of the Regional Office signature from the Documentation of Choices form.
6. Removal of the Care Coordination Organization Consent Form from the Life Plan review.

OPWDD would appreciate your feedback on the changes during the public comment period which will be available from June 1, 2020 through July 1, 2020.  Once your comments have been reviewed and any necessary adjustments incorporated, New York State will submit the amended waiver to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for approval.  A copy of the waiver amendment is available for your review on the OPWDD website at: https://opwdd.ny.gov/providers/home-and-community-based-services-waiver. 

OPWDD will be hosting two WebEx sessions on June 4, 2020, to provide an overview and outline the proposed changes.  The WebEx sessions are open to the public and all interested parties are welcome to participate.  

To participate in the presentation regarding the HCBS Waiver, you will need to register at the following link: https://opwdd.ny.gov/providers/home-and-community-based-services-waiver.

You will need a computer to connect to the visual presentation and a telephone for the audio connection.  Software programs on tablets are not compatible with the WebEx system. Please direct any questions or concerns regarding the WebEx session to: peoplefirstwaiver@opwdd.ny.gov.

We welcome your feedback and thank you for your continued advocacy for New Yorkers with developmental disabilities.

Magellan Healthcare is pleased to announce the opening of a crisis text line for all first responders and healthcare workers who are serving on the frontline of the coronavirus pandemic. The crisis text line will support our crisis telephone hotline, launched in April. Critical workers can now reach us both by phone and text message to get help.

Magellan Healthcare will provide free, confidential mental health services and access to other resources such as community-based support to help those responding directly to the pandemic. These resources are provided free of charge to support critical workers as they try to manage feelings of fear, sadness, anger and hopelessness associated with the situations they may be experiencing during the coronavirus pandemic.

How critical workers can access the crisis text line

Text SUPPORT to 78137 from anywhere in the United States to connect to a certified, licensed mental health clinician via our secure mPulse Mobile platform. The crisis text line is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern. Texts received outside of these hours will be forwarded to the crisis telephone hotline. If critical workers wish to call the crisis telephone line directly, the toll-free number is 1-800-327-7451 (TTY 711).

To learn more about how Magellan Healthcare is responding and offers support during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit MagellanHealthcare.com/COVID-19.

The Institute has mailed a copy of the revised New York State Early Learning Guidelines  to every licensed center and every early childhood faculty member throughout the state.

The revised New York State Early Learning Guidelines is a child development resource for all early childhood educators working with children from birth through age eight. The Guidelines provide information about children's development as well as specific instructional, environmental and family engagement strategies to use to support young children’s development. The Early Learning Guidelines and the New York State Core Body of Knowledge: Core Competencies for Early Childhood Educators, along with the New York State Early Learning Standards comprise the early learning framework in New York State.

The New Early Learning Guidelines provide:

• A comprehensive guide to child development for children from birth through age 8.
• Specific sample instructional, environmental and family engagement strategies to support young children’s development.
• A companion to the state’s early learning standards developed by the New York State Education Department and the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework.

The Early Learning Guidelines are also available in Spanish.

The Institute is committed to the health and safety of our staff. We will process your order but shipping may be delayed.

Questionnaire: Professional Learning about the Revised Early Learning Guidelines

We are planning small-group targeted online professional learning sessions on the Revised NYS Early Learning Guidelines. If you'd like to participate, fill out the questionnaire and let us know your preferences for sessions.

New Synthetic Opioid, Mixed With Cocaine, Detected in Overdose Cases
Health officials in Illinois and Indiana say a new synthetic opioid appears to be linked to some overdose cases, USA Today reports. Read More

Sources of Illegal Drugs Change During Pandemic, Leading to New Overdose Risks
The coronavirus pandemic is impacting the supply chain of illegal drugs, leading to new overdose risks, experts tell NPR.
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Number of Opioid Deaths May be Much Higher Than Previously Believed
The number of deaths due to opioid overdoses may be much higher than previously thought, according to a new study. Read More

COVID-19 Pandemic Makes Mental Health Treatment Harder to Obtain
The COVID-19 pandemic is making it more difficult for people to obtain mental health treatment, the Associated Press reports. Read More

During this time of uncertainty, we're still here to support families.

The Developmental Disabilities Planning Council wants to help you stay informed during the coronavirus crisis. Below we have compiled a list of resources, tools, and information. You will find information for individuals, parents and families, providers, and opportunities for you to help by filling out informational surveys. Stay safe and healthy during this ongoing pandemic.

FOR INDIVIDUALS:

Administration for Community Living: What do Older Adults and People with Disabilities Need to Know? Guide
 
Autism Society Corona Virus Response and Resources
 
California DD Council Self-Advocate COVID-19 Video Series
 
COVID-19 Visual Communication Card
 
Financial Resources for People with Developmental Disabilities During the COVID-19 Crisis
 
Plain Language Information on COVID-19 (In 11 Languages)
 
The Rose F. Kennedy Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (RFK CERC)/The University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) Resource Guide
 
Special Olympics Virtual Exercise Program and Resources

FOR PARENTS AND FAMILIES:

NYSRC Webinar: Mindfulness For Families Of Children With ASD: Focusing on The Present Moment In Stressful Times  
 
CDC Household Guide
 
COVID-19 and at Home Resources for Children
 
Guardianship in the Time of COVID-19
 
Protecting Your Mental Health During the Coronavirus Outbreak Podcast
 
Sign-up for Text4Caregivers (English)
            Versión en Español

FOR PROVIDERS:

COVID-19 Webinars for Providers
 
Guidance for Behavior Health Facilities
 
How to Lead Through the COVID-19 Crisis in a Resilience-Oriented Trauma-Informed Way
 
National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP)
 
OPWDD Resource Guide

Are the Kids Alright? COVID-19 and Youth Forum June 2-5, 2020

Organized by the NYS Youth Justice Institute, this series of web-based panel discussions will explore the pandemic’s current and foreseeable impacts on children, teens, and young adults, as well as innovative approaches to the present crisis.

Each panel will focus on a key environment affected by the pandemic and relevant to justice-involved youth: their homes, schools, communities, justice systems, as well as detention and placement settings.

Experts from diverse fields will examine these issues while centering on the disparate impacts of COVID-19 on historically marginalized populations. Join us in reimagining a more equitable, compassionate, and empirically-driven youth justice system.

Family Discussion for Parents/Caregivers of Children and Youth (ages 0 – 21) with Physical, Medical, Emotional and Learning Needs

Westchester Institute for Human Development (WIHD) and The Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities at University of Rochester Medical Center are recruiting families to participate in discussions about how to best support families in New York State (NYS) who have a child or youth with physical, medical, emotional or learning needs. In addition, we are working with local health departments (LHDs) to compile a regional resource directory and training materials that LHDs can use to support children and youth and their families in the future.
 
WIHD and The Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities at University of Rochester Medical Center are engaged in this project through a grant from the NYS Department of Health.
 
We will be holding virtual small group discussions and individual interviews with eligible participants from May 2020 through June 2021.

Who is eligible?

• Any person who lives in NYS; and is
• A parent/guardian with caregiving responsibility of a child or youth (0-21) with physical, medical, emotional or learning needs; or
• An individual (18-21) with physical, medical, emotional or learning needs.

Discussion Group Details:

• 90 minute virtual group discussion; $75 compensation
• 60 minute individual phone interview; $50 compensation

 
Interpreters available and sessions in Spanish available

For more information:

In the Hudson Valley and Upstate Region of NYS
Visit: https://bit.ly/2S5sJ8p
Call or Email:
Susan at 914-719-7774 or sburlazzi@wihd.org
Jeannie at 914-719-7761 or jrisucci@wihd.org
 
In the Western Region of NYS
Visit: https://bit.ly/3dyV7Ih
Email: Melissa at Melissa_Parrish@urmc.rochester.edu

AUGUST 18, 2020 | 11:00 AM - 01:30 PM

The Recovery Art Festival is open to all New York State artists in recovery from an addiction. This year’s submissions should depict the theme, “Owning Our Recovery.” Please submit one (1) form of art in one (1) of the following categories via a photograph and/or a video. Please note that due to the current situation, ONLY ELECTRONIC SUBMISSIONS OF ART WILL BE ACCEPTED. Any entry submitted through the US Mail will be refused. • Poetry • Drawing (graphite, pen & ink, colored pencil) • Painting (oil, acrylic, pastel, watercolor) • Photography • Mixed Media A person may submit in more than one category, but only one submission per person per category will be accepted. 

NYeC shares how the SHIN-NY is being leveraged by the QEs, the DOH, and providers statewide in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

New York State is using a portion of federal CARES act funding to provide free child care for income eligible essential workers. The CARES funding will also be used to purchase supplies for child care providers statewide who remain open, including masks, gloves, diapers, baby wipes, baby formula and food. Both programs are being administered through the state network of Child Care Resource and Referral agencies (CCR&Rs). CCR&Rs are the child care experts and the conduit to accessing child care in New York State. CCR&Rs serve all 62 counties.

If you meet the definition of an essential employee and have child care needs, register here.  If you are a child care provider that has openings for essential workers, please fill in your information here.

If you have additional questions, please contact your local CCR&R agency. https://earlycareandlearning.org/our-members/

Your Friends are here for You...

You Are Never Alone!

During this time of high anxiety with the uncertainty of the pandemic, we know it is especially hard for those in recovery.  However, Friends of Recovery - New York is here to remind you that YOU ARE NEVER ALONE!  

FOR-NY has been and will continue to send these updated lists of immediate general and more regional resources for you to have readily available should you need assistance.   We also encourage you to reach out to your local Recovery Community Organization.  You can find RCOs here.

General Resources

Find a Treatment Facility Near You

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or call 1-800-273-8255

NYS Domestic Violence Information and hotline 1-800-942-6906

Behavioral Health Services Locator

Phone App to Support People in Recovery

OASAS Advocacy Unit email and call 1-800-553-5790 or download brochure

CHAMP Helpline Information

Problem Gambling Resource Centers

Medication Assisted Treatment Information

Harm Reduction Information

CDC Coping with Stress

Health & Wellness through Yoga & 12 Step

FOR-NY COVID-19 Resources

NYS Good Samaritan Law

NYC and Long Island

PILLARS NYC

Samaritian Village

Odyssey House

Community Health Action of SI Recovery Center- STOP

Long Island Recovery Association

Thrive Suffolk

Thrive Nassau

Elmcor Youth Clubhouse

Rockland Narcotics Anonymous

Mid-Hudson, Capital District & Mohawk Valley

Virtual Mental Health & Substance Use Urgent Care

Rensselaer County Recovery Helpline 1-833-467-3123 and Information on Narcan Curbside PickUp

Second Chance Opportunities, Inc Zoom Meetings

Healing Springs

SAMADHI

Project Safe Point

Northeastern Community Action Partnership

Our Wellness Collective

The Apogee Center

Columbia County Pathways to Recovery and and 12 hour Helpline at 877-467-3365

Greener Pathways Mobile Outreach

Onward Recovery Commmunity Outreach

Rob Constantine RCOC & 24 hour Peer Hotline 518-705-4627

RISE Recovery Center

Hope and Healing RCOC

North Country

Anchor Recovery Center

Seaway Valley Prevention Council Peer Support

Horizons Youth Clubhouse

Champlain Valley Family Center

Western New York

In His Name Outreach

ROCovery Fitness

Best Self

Voices Binghamton

Sparks of Hope Recovery Support Center

Addict2Addict of Niagara County

Horizon Health Services

Central New York & Finger Lakes

Nicks Ride 4 Friends Cayuga Co

Friends of Recovery Delaware Otsego

ROCovery Fitness

Recovery Coach University

EPIC Zone Youth Clubhouse

The SPOT Youth Clubhouse

Reach Out...

Even though technology is helping many of us stay connected through virtual resources, please remember that not everyone has access to the Internet to seek virtual assistance to help cope or even see this email.  Therefore, please consider picking up the phone and calling someone that you know who may be struggling.

#InThisTogether

Globally, COVID-19 is more than a public health challenge — it has laid bare the consequences of persistent systemic inequality for all to see, and is threatening our social fabric, mental health, trust in institutions, and the economic security of billions of people.

This is a critical time for all of us to support each other. In this moment of obligation, we have a responsibility to act with care and caution, both towards ourselves and each other. And as a global community, we know that this is a key moment to take action.

That’s why Peace First is launching a rapid response grant process to help young people around the world lead projects that address community impacts of COVID-19, from providing meals to elderly neighbors to launching digital mental health campaigns to support youth feeling isolated. Rapid response grants are open to young people between the ages of 13-25, anywhere in the world, starting today. Learn more.

Deadline: Ongoing

Action Needed for Social Security Beneficiaries with Dependents and Who Do Not File Tax Returns to Receive $500 Per Child Payment

Social Security beneficiaries and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients who don’t file tax returns will start receiving their automatic Economic Impact Payments directly from the Treasury Department soon.  People receiving benefits who did not file 2018 or 2019 taxes, and have qualifying children under age 17, however, should not wait for their automatic $1,200 individual payment.  They should immediately go to the IRS’s website and visit the Non-Filers: Enter Payment Info Here section to provide their information.

Social Security retirement, survivors, and disability insurance beneficiaries with dependent children and who did not file 2018 or 2019 taxes need to act by Wednesday, April 22, in order to receive additional payments for their eligible children quickly. SSI recipients need to take this action by later this month; a specific date will be available soon.

By taking this proactive step to enter information on the IRS website about them and their qualifying children, they will also receive the $500 per dependent child payment in addition to their $1,200 individual payment.  If beneficiaries in this group do not provide their information to the IRS soon, their payment at this time will be $1,200.  People would then be required to file a tax year 2020 tax return to obtain the additional $500 per eligible child.

The Rose F. Kennedy Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (RFK CERC)/The University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) put together a Resource Guide that contains information related to the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

Resources are listed by area: NYC - Local, NY - State, and National. Each resource is listed by its target audience: Children/Youth, General COVID, Individuals with Disabilities, Older Adults, and Plain Language. Plain language is for all reading levels. Resources are in English unless otherwise noted.

TIES stands for Increasing (T)ime, (I)nstructional Effectiveness, (E)ngagement, and State (S)upport for Inclusive Practices.

Funded by the Untied States Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs, is the national technical assistance center on inclusive practices and policies. It works with states, districts, and schools to support the movement of students from less inclusive to more inclusive environments. Its purpose is to create sustainable changes in kindergarten–grade 8 school and district educational systems so that students with significant cognitive disabilities can fully engage in the same instructional and non-instructional activities as their general education peers while being instructed in a way that meets individual learning needs. The TIES Center provides a number of resources specific to assist in engaging students with significant cognitive disabilities in distance learning.

2020 Census Participation Impacts Your Community

The 2020 Census is here, and your representation in Congress and the federal funding your state receives for schools, health care, roads, meals on wheels, senior services, and other vital programs are riding on everyone participating. Every person missed costs communities tens of thousands of dollars over the next decade.

Participation is Easy!

Online       My 2020 Census.gov

By Phone  1-844-330-2020

By Mail     Paper forms arrive in mailboxes April 8-16 (for those who have not already participated)

Your personal information is kept safe and confidential; by law, it cannot be shared with anyone.

Already completed your Census? What about your favorite aunt? How about that one friend that probably ignored it? The homebound woman down the street? The co-worker who always waits until the last minute? Be a Census Champion, remind them to Define Their Decade, and complete their 2020 Census.

Learn more about Census impact, Census jobs, and staying safe from Census scams.

We are creating our 2022-2026 State Plan. The state plan outlines the direction of our work.

While the NYS DDPC does not provide direct services, we do pilot new programs across the state to improve the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and people that support them.

We want to make sure our work reaches the things which are important to you! That is why we are seeking input from individuals with disabilities, family members, caregivers, providers, staff, advocates, and others. We would greatly appreciate your input in our survey which asks what areas we should work in and what type of projects we should focus on in the coming years.

Help us create the next state plan by filling out our survey: The survey should take about 5-10 minutes.

Thank you!

The field of Recovery Peer Support Services needs you now more than ever.  If you are inspired to use your lived experience with Addiction Recovery to become a peer professional and need financial assistance to complete your training, FOR-NY and OASAS has funding available for you!!!!

Please take a look at the information below and contact Shannon if you have further questions on the application process: sschielke@for-ny.org

These awards will go to individuals who take their training with a Best Practice Trainer.

VIRTUAL CRPA training with Best Practice trainers TBA on Upcoming Trainings page of our website.

Note:

• These are limited funds but all are encouraged to apply.
• Selection will be widespread to ensure all regions of New York have fair distribution.
• Eligibility will be determined, but not limited to, lived experience, appropriateness / assessment
  of training readiness and financial need.
• Individuals who are veterans and bilingual are encouraged to apply.

We hope that you and your family are healthy and safe during this challenging time. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyone's lives in a variety of ways including the temporary closure of schools across New York State until at least April 29th.

We are reaching out to share the latest updates from the New York State Education Department (NYSED). On April 6th, NYSED announced the cancellation of the June 2020 Regents Exams and issued guidance on Graduation and Course Requirement Changes Due to the COVID-19 and Ongoing Statewide School Closures. Also, issued is a related and helpful Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Document. This document and NYSED's dedicated COVID-19 Information site will be updated on a regular basis, as additional questions arise and more information becomes available.

Whether you have a question about an upcoming Committee on Special Education (CSE) meeting or have a different special education related question or concern, the School Age FACE Center wants to hear from you. You may contact the FACE Center by calling 518-640-3320 or emailing schoolageface@wildwoodprograms.org. We look forward to assisting you and wish you and your family continued good health!

During this difficult time, we are all facing challenges that seem daunting and that we may feel unprepared for. But there are people that rely on us--in some cases, both our children and our parents are looking to us for assurance, support, and guidance during these uncertain times. In addition, we need to take care of ourselves, so that we can be there for them. But no one ever told us how to do that! How do we know the right answers? 

At Prevent Child Abuse, we are not claiming to have all of the answers, but we are happy to use our collective resources to provide you with the NYS Resource Guide for Caregivers: Caring for Your Family During the COVID-19 Crisis. 

This Resource Guide is intended to help navigate life with children through the pandemic and the days that follow. It is rooted in the Five Protective Factors. The Five Protective Factors serve to mitigate the negative impacts of trauma. This Guide is organized by each of the Factors and gives you tips and concrete resources (links) to information you can use when YOU have questions. 

We hope that you will use this guide to help you get through this difficult and unprecedented challenge, and that we will all be better for it on the other side.

Wishing your loved ones safety and wellness.

Timothy Hathaway, Executive Director

During this COVID-19 public health crisis, we wanted to share with you an informational form created by Michelle Ballan, PhD, Professor, School of Social Welfare & Family, Population and Preventive Medicine Stony Brook University to collect and summarize vital information about an individual that can be provided to the care team in the hospital.

This form was developed in conjunction with Emergency Room (ER) and hospital physicians, individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and parent advocates. It is designed to be an informational support tool for individuals with I/DD who may need to go to the ER or be hospitalized due to symptoms of COVID-19. Please keep the following important information in mind:

• Although this form is optional, Care Design NY encourages Members and Families to complete this information proactively in case it is ever needed. Please let your Care Manager know if you would like them to assist you or complete this form on your behalf. 
   
• Care Design NY Care Managers will assist with completing this form for anyone they support living in the community (non-residential) who does not have a family member or natural support to complete this on their behalf. 
   
• In the event someone needs to go to the ER/Hospital, this form will help to alert ER/Hospital physicians and medical staff to the best ways to communicate with the person according to their needs and wishes.    
   
• All Care Coordination Organizations (CCOs) are utilizing this universal form to best support individuals with I/DD across New York State at this challenging time. Please refer any questions to your Care Manager or you can send an email to memberfeedback@caredesignny.org.

Chancellor Richard Carranza kicks off our new exciting feature series, #DOEconnected, in celebration of the DOE staff members across the City who are working hard to keep students safe, healthy, and learning throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Click here to learn more.

Every county in New York State now has confirmed cases of Coronavirus. Our "New York on PAUSE" policy remains in place. Non-essential workers must stay home except for essential activities like going to the grocery store. When you're not at home, you must practice social distancing, and we also encourage you to wear a face covering in public (but do not purchase surgical masks — we must reserve those for healthcare workers and first responders). These are extraordinary times, and it will take all of us working together to beat this vicious virus.

Stay Informed: Get nightly updates from New York State with the latest news on our response to the pandemic by signing up here.

Tragically, we continue to lose New Yorkers to this invisible enemy. More than four thousand of our brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, friends and neighbors have died after contracting COVID-19. Each and every one of them is in our hearts. We must continue to socially distance to prevent the virus from spreading and taking more lives.

Here are some other important updates:

• New York launched a new COVID-19 tracker, with detailed county-by-county information on confirmed cases. The website is updated daily with the latest data.
• Thousands of therapists have signed up to offer free emotional support to New Yorkers who are struggling with the mental health impact of this pandemic. Call the state's hotline at 1-844-863-9314 to get free emotional support, consultations and referrals to a provider.
• More than 85,000 volunteers from New York and across the country have answered our call to join New York's surge healthcare force. We are awed by the heroism and selflessness of these volunteers. If you are interested in joining, enlist here.
• NYS has a message for victims of domestic violence during this stressful time: You Are Not Alone. If you are in a dangerous domestic situation, NYS will help you find safe shelter. You are not trapped just because of Coronavirus. Call 1-800-942-6906.

"I wish I could promise you that this period will be over soon. I can't. What I can promise you is that I will continue to share the facts with New Yorkers and I will make decisions based on all the available science and data with one goal in mind: save lives. I know that this is a painful, disorienting experience. It's important to remember that we will get through this. Now we must do what's necessary to win this battle."

Ever Upward,

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

Updates:

Youth Recovery Program Specialists Lori Teaney and Carlee Hulsizer are hosting a SMART Recovery meeting on Tuesday April 28, 2020 at 7:00 pm.

Survey Time!

Let us know what forms of social media you're using HERE

Youth Voices Matter-NY has been working virtually to continue to reach out to youth and young adults in recovery. We wanted to let everyone know of different ways young people across the state are staying connected.

Social Media:

#YVMTuesdayTalks & #TuesdaysWithCarlee

Join Carlee as she talks about overcoming some of the challenges we are facing with social distancing.

Online Meetings:

Join Lori and the rest of the team for meetings throughout the week. Look on our Facebook and Instagram pages for times/dates.

• Clubhouse and Programming Changes -

JOIN OUR YOUTH CLUBHOUSE CALL CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Many of the OASAS Clubhouses across the state have changed up their programming and what they are offering during this time. Below is a list of some things clubhouses are doing to stay connected with their youth. #NYSClubhouseConnects

Downstate:

Housing Works - Through April 2nd, all programming will be moving to Instagram Live from 1-2 pm Monday-Thursday. On Instagram Live, folks can ask questions, make comments and engage in the programming. For more information, visit them on social media.

YMCA Yonkers Clubhouse - They have created templates for their Instagram stories for users to add to and share with friends.

Capital Region/North Country:

Horizons - Currently closed due to Covid-19. They have open hours to chat with clubhouse members from 1-3 pm on Snapchat every day. Snapchat names for clubhouse staff are "HorizonsKristin", "HorizonsJake", and "HorizonsClub." For more information, contact khill@svpc.net 

Creative Connections - They are having weekly calls with clubhouse members to check in. Creative Connections is also helping out families in need by preparing supplies to bring to them. They're also providing craft supplies in drop offs so that members can participate in #518RainbowHunt via Facebook. Please reach out to Alyssa for more information alyssa@hfm-preventioncouncil.com

Columbia & Greene Youth Clubhouses - All mutual aid group and regular group programming is suspended. The sites will be available to provide in person or telephonic individual supports (i.e. homework, mental health/recovery support, food, transportation, Trax Program/recording) on a limited and scheduled basis. Staff is also providing check-in calls with members and working on utilizing virtual platforms. For more info contact Kai at khillmann@mhacg.org

Finger Lakes/Western NY:

The SPOT - Their clubhouse has gone virtual and is "open" 5-10 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday. They've been hosting group activities on Facebook Live such as budgeting, mindfulness, yoga, and trivia. The SPOT has been checking in with members via messenger. They have also been preparing and distributing food kits and hygiene kits. For more information reach out to Ellen at elazarek@oco.org

NYS OASAS began a "Virtual High Five" Initiative to inspire young people to "Stop The Spread" Post you pictures and use the hashtag #VirtualHighFive

Please do not hesitate to reach out to anyone at Youth Voices Matter. We are here and we are with you. Stay Safe!

We wanted to let you know that resources from New York State are available to help answer your questions and concerns.

New York State Department of Health has set-up a 24/7 hotline to answer any of your Coronavirus-related questions. To reach them, please call 1-888-364-3065. You can find the latest information at their resource site:
https://coronavirus. health.ny.gov/home.

New York State Department of Labor is working tirelessly to handle incoming claims. If you have been unable to get through our phone and/or online system this week, please keep trying. Once filed, all benefits will be retroactive to the day you were out of work. For more information, please contact 1-888-4-NYSDOL (888-469-7365). Or visit http://labor.ny.gov. Below are some helpful tips. 

New York State Office of Mental Health - If the pandemic is impacting your mental health or creating anxiety - there are resources available to help. Please contact the our Emotional Support Hotline: 1-844-863-9314. Or visit omh.ny.gov.

Isolation can be dangerous. If you're experiencing domestic violence during this unprecedented time, critical services are available for you and your family.

If you are in immediate danger - call 9-1-1. If you need help with how to be safe, please call the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline at 1-800-942-6906. 

Below are additional resources:

• Price Gouging hotline: 1-800-697-1220.
• If you believe an employer is in violation of either existing labor laws or recently issued executive orders, please contact the New York State Attorney General's Office at (212) 416-8700 or Labor.Bureau@ag.ny.gov.
• For information regarding State business regulations and general guidance related to the coronavirus, please visit Empire State Development (ESD) FAQ'S at https://esd.ny.gov/novel- coronavirus-faq-businesses.
• If your question is not answered there, please contact ESD at our website at: https://esd.ny.gov/covid-19- help.

As the Governor mentioned this week, it's not the easy times that forge character, it's the tougher times - and no one is tougher than New Yorkers.

Please stay safe, stay in, and stay healthy.

Lieutenant Governor

Kathy Hochul

ProActive Caring Program

As we are all navigating these present times - there are tools, resources and supports that can be helpful. We have sent this message out to the individuals, families, community-based agencies and social-media sites that are involved in our statewide ProActive Caring Program funded by the NYS Developmental Disabilities Planning Council (NYS DDPC). The ProActive Caring Program provides Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) strategies and training to individuals, families and staff.

In times of stress - internal or external - staying in the moment with a focus on one breath at a time - can be calming and reassuring. We ask that you take a glimpse at the information we have shared with you (https://www.msmc.edu/proactive) about the “ProActive Caring Program” and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), with an intent on: “staying in the moment."  https://www.msmc.edu/About_MSMC/centers/center-on-aging-and-disability-policy/proactive-caring-program/resources

Stress is a learned response and it can be unlearned. By using simple but powerful techniques of breathing and imagery, all things are manageable. We know it works - and so will you!

Be safe....be calm....be kind....be stress free

Also, here is the link to a Zoom-Cast that we created this week. The title is: “Pro-Active Caring - School Exchange”. This format will be created on a weekly basis on Wednesday at 10 am - the future video formats will run for 15 minutes and then open for questions, thoughts and exchanges.

The intent is to immediately be available for Parents, Families and Staff - to provide resources, presence and support.

Please feel free to share this link throughout your networks. Also, please feel free to contact us at 845-569-3164.

Be safe. Thanks.

https://zoom.us/rec/share/wvc2EInp3TNLZYnP-VDQWJ4HO63dX6a8gSNPqfBZyEuH7QCYsmFEnkC7R__OwBWs

Best wishes,

Larry Force, Jeffery Kahana, and Elaine Sproat

The Center on Aging and Disability Policy

SAMHSA has a number of resources to assist you in getting help, access treatment, and connect to a crisis counselor.

They include:

FindTreatment.gov

Millions of Americans have a substance use disorder. Find a treatment facility near you.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Free and confidential support for people in distress, 24/7.

Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator

Find treatment facilities confidentially and anonymously, 24/7.

National Helpline

1-800-662-HELP (4357)

Treatment referral and information, 24/7.

For those who prefer texting/social media (Facebook Messenger) to seek help. This resource is supported mostly by private companies such as Netflix and YouTube.

Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text

741741

from anywhere in the US to text with a trained Crisis Counselor. Crisis Text Line trains volunteers to support people in crisis. https://www.crisistextline.org/about-us/faq/

Visit www.samhsa.gov / 1-877-726-4727

NYS Office of Mental Health encourage you to check out our guidance released. Here, you can find all guidance, including the COVID-19 related guidance from OMH.

If you have any questions related to how your agency should proceed with specific aspects of operation during COVID-19 interruptions, please submit to transformation@omh.ny.gov.

As we all continue to navigate our way through this pandemic and abide by the Governor's guidelines of social-distancing for the safety of ourselves, our families and others, FOR-NY continues in working to bring you updated COVID-19 information and how it may affect the Recovery Community statewide.

We have added a special page to our website that can be accessed through this link or when you visit our website at FOR-NY.org, you will find it in a tab on the top right titled "COVID-19 Information."  Here you will find online recovery resources, the latest updates from OASAS, the NYS Governor, as well as CDC guidelines.

We will be updating this information regularly so be sure to visit often and use this as a resource tool as needed.

We are in this together!

The NYS Parent Portal (www.nysparenting.org) has launched a "Coronavirus - Resources for Parents" web page with parenting tips, activities and information on how to talk to your children about the Cornavirus.

National Parenting Education Network (NPEN)

Resources to support parents, children, families and caregivers during current Coronavirus period. Information was shared at a recent NPEN Zoom meeting. 

Resources for Helping Parents and Children around Coronavirus 

https://sparkandstitchinstitute.com/talking-to-children-about-coronavirus/

Understanding coronavirus and how germs spread (for kids)

https://childmind.org/article/talking-to-kids-about-the-coronavirus/

https://www.chkd.org/Blog/COVID-19-Uncertainties--Caring-for-Yourself,-Caring-for-Your-Kids/ 

https://www.chkd.org/Blog/COVID-19--Tips-to-Help-Parents-Support-Children/

Platform for Running Virtual Online Classes

https://www.schoology.com/ 

Podcast for Recognizing, Respecting and Allowing Children’s Healthy Emotions 

“Unruffled" by Janet Lansbury

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/respectful-parenting-janet-lansbury-unruffled/id1030050704

Activities Parents Can Do With Kids

https://www.kidsacookin.org/ is a great web site for cooking with kids

For Parents Who Are at a Distance From Their Children (e.g. co-parenting)

"Moms over Miles" and "Dads at a Distance" have good suggestions and ideas for activities that may be useful especially for parents not together.

http://www.fambooks.com/moms.htm 

http://daads.com/

NEW COVID-19 RESOURCE

Here is a link to our latest resource, a publication written in conjunction with our partners at The Hope Center for College, Community and Justice and SchoolHouse Connection.

Beyond the Food Pantry: COVID-19 Response for Students Who Are Homeless or With Experience in Foster Care is meant to be a resource for caseworkers, social workers, students themselves, and those who care about them in these difficult times. We hope you will read and share in your networks.

We will continue to advocate for youth in the child welfare and justice systems facing unique challenges with the current situation.

NY State Updates on Coronavirus and Operation of Federal Nutrition Assistance Programs

Hunger Solutions New York is following the development of emergency plans for the continued operation of federal nutrition programs as New York communities work to slow the spread of COVID-19.

School Meals

NYS Education Department Guidance: "Operating Child Nutrition Programs when Schools are Closed due to COVID-19" encourages schools to prepare now to be able to continue to provide “critical support services” like school meals in the event of a school closure.  Highlights include: 

• School districts and sponsors in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) may provide reimbursable meals to low-income children during school closures related to COVID-19.
• To provide meals to children in areas affected by school closures, schools must complete a one page application and submit to CNCOVID@nysed.gov for review and approval, prior to commencing meal operations.
• Upon Child Nutrition’s approval of their application, schools may provide up to two meals per day per child through the SFSP or the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) of the National School Lunch Program.  
• Meals may be provided and consumed at schools or other locations in the community or provided for consumption at home. 
• This memo also includes a Q&A to clarify guidance for operating child nutrition programs when schools are closed due to COVID-19.

We encourage any school with questions to please contact your Child Nutrition Program Representative directly, or email CNCOVID@nysed.gov if you have additional questions or concerns.

SNAP

On March 12th, OTDA issued a notice on COVID-19 to social service districts.  
Highlights include:

• No waivers and no special provisions have been approved or offered to the states in the operation of SNAP, and the program continues to operate normally. Local social service districts should continue to plan to ensure safe and continuous access to SNAP.
• Local districts are reminded of the requirement to grant good cause when a participant's failure to meet program requirements is due to factors beyond the participant’s control. The COVID-19 pandemic may result in the inability of individuals to attend agency appointments, including work activity assignments, due to factors such as lack of transportation, lack of child-care, or worksite closures.

Districts are reminded that telephone interviews at both application and recertification are permissible for all SNAP households and are encouraged to utilize or implement this process. For SNAP cases due for recertification, districts also have the option to extend the certification period up to the maximum allowable certification period of 12 or 24 months, or up to 48 months for NYSNIP cases.

These additional websites are providing updated information as it becomes available.

• NYS Education Department Coronavirus Information for Schools
• Food Research and Action Center  - Preparing for the Impacts of the Coronavirus on Health, Well-being, and Food Security
• USDA FNS Program Guidance on Pandemic Response including the USDA SNAP Pandemic Planning Guidelines

As a statewide organization dedicated to alleviating hunger, our mission is more important than ever. We will continue to keep you updated on developments.

COVID-19 Outbreak

The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) is providing this guidance to New York State Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) providers serving children/youth under the 1915(c) Children’s Waiver, pertaining to the current novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. 

Please click learn more to view the Guidance documents fo HCBS providers and Health Homes, and visit the Novel Cornoavirus Information for Providers page for additional information. It is important that providers continue to monitor the Department of Health website and all Medicaid Updates, as the situation is changing rapidly.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment to serving our most vulnerable Medicaid members.

With the spread of the Coronavirus and other types of diseases on people's minds, parents, teachers, and clinicians are looking to find ways to calm the anxiety and the best preventative measures to teach children. What if your child is diagnosed with anxiety/OCD and is already washing “too much”? Or maybe your child with ADHD is impulsive and can’t stop touching and does not easily follow directions? What happens when these preventative measures cause more hurt than help for children with Anxiety, OCD, ASD or ADHD?

In this 1-hour webinar, Dr. Lori Evans and Dr. Kathleen Camacho will focus on how to help children cope with the Coronavirus information when diagnosed with behavioral disorders and will provide ideas by diagnosis and developmental level.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 - CDC

STRESS AND COPING

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations.  How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and  the community you live in.

People who may respond more strongly to the stress of a crisis include

• Older people and people with chronic diseases who are at higher risk for COVID-19
• Children and teens
• People who are helping with the response to COVID-19, like doctors and other health care providers, or first responders
• People who have mental health conditions including problems with substance use

Click the Learn More Link below for tips for parents, responders, people who have been released from quarantine, and links to additional resources.

Hunger Solutions New York has released its annual statewide report, Bridging the Gap: Reaching Undeserved Students with Breakfast After the Bell. The report, which includes state and district-level statistics for New York State’s public schools, is based on 2018-19 school year data. The report analyzes school breakfast participation to provide a better understanding of, and potential solutions for, the state’s historically stagnant participation in free and reduced-price school breakfast.

Help us educate and spread the message about the power of school breakfast. Please share this report with your networks and on your social channels. Together we can make a difference in making sure more low-income children have access to the nutrition they need for their health and learning.

Read Our Press Release Here

WGiOS Social Media Resources and Events

WGiOS has been postponed to October 15, 2020.

Our planning committee is maintaining the WGiOS Facebook page leading up to the event by posting mental health resources and other events related to children's mental health.

We are reaching out to request any resources or events related to children's mental health to post and share.

If you know of any, you can:

1. Send the resource and/or event links to the WGiOS Facebook page via messenger

2. Tag the WGiOS Facebook page in your posts related to children's mental health

Make sure to like and follow the Facebook page to stay up-to-date on WGiOS 2020 and children's mental health!

For more information please contact Kate Provencher

Mental Health Crossroads

An exploration of the many intersections between mental health issues and intellectual and developmental disabilities. You are invited to learn more about these issues from our monthly interview episodes with professionals, self-advocates, and experts.