Author: Timothy Barre

2019 National Association Of Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

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Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive

Is your United Way participating in the 2019 National Association of Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive? Every second Saturday in May, letter carriers in more than 10,000 cities and towns across America collect the goodness and compassion of their postal customers, who participate in the NALC Stamp Out Hunger National Food Drive — the largest one-day food drive in the nation.

Led by letter carriers represented by the National Association of Letter Carriers (AFL-CIO), with help from rural letter carriers, other postal employees and other volunteers, the drive has delivered more than one billion pounds of food the past 25 years.

Carriers collect non-perishable food donations left by mailboxes and in post offices and deliver them to local community food banks, pantries and shelters. Nearly 1,500 NALC branches in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands are involved.

United Way is proud to support the Stamp Out Hunger Fund Drive.

Download the flyer HERE.

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Eating Healthy In The Summer

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​VT’s Annual Count of Homelessness Shows Mixed Results

MONTPELIER, VT – 1,291 Vermonters were found to be literally homeless on a single night in January, an increase of 66 people, or 5%, compared to the 2017 one‐day count. The 2018 Point‐in‐Time (PIT) Count Report, released today by the Vermont Coalition to End Homelessness and the Chittenden County Homeless Alliance, shows an overall increase in homelessness.

Read the full press release here. 

Vermont 2-1-1 Monthly Contact Statistics

A message from the Director, MaryEllen Mendl

May’s contact volume of 1,737 reflects the more financially manageable period that the warmer months provide for many here in Vermont. The annual increase in contact volume that the fall and winter months always bring, with requests for home heating assistance and emergency shelter, always taper off in May. For many Vermonters the summer season means time for catching up on overdo utility bills, making much needed vehicle repairs, and setting aside whatever they can in anticipation of another long cold winter. Although all Vermonters can well appreciate the relief and relative comfort that our summer weather brings, historically, contact volume will begin to climb again after just a brief lull.  The summer months can present their own, albeit less threatening, set of issues for many Vermont families with children. The day-to-day rhythm of the school year has been broken, and with “summer vacation” can come the need for additional child care and a well-stocked pantry.

Each year, the onset of summer brings with it the types of requests for information and referral that reflect a heightened anxiety about the typical day-to-day struggles that some Vermont families continue to face. This year’s May data already reveals that for the first five months of 2018 an average of 254 referrals a month were made to Public Assistance Programs like 3SquaresVT, Medicaid, and most frequently,  the State of Vermont’s General Assistance program, which primarily provides emergency assistance in the form of temporary housing for people who are experiencing homelessness. Throughout July and August Vermont’s community food pantries, free summer lunch programs for children, locally sponsored community meals, fresh food distribution programs, and community gardens will do their best to respond to the rise in demand for supplemental food support. Thankfully, many Vermonters understand the food insecurity that summer may bring to many of their neighbors’ households, and they are volunteering to positively impact as many lives as possible through their volunteer efforts of planting, picking, rescuing, and delivering free fresh produce to food pantries, meal sites, and local distribution points.

The numbers are in! Vermont’s participation in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day was a huge success. Vermont 2-1-1’s contribution to the effort is noted by the sudden increase in Community Planning and Public Works. A total of 88 contacts were made to 2-1-1 (via phone, email, text) looking for programs that accept and safely dispose of unwanted or outdated medication. This was a thirty percent increase over 2017. Additionally, 541 searches were made in May on the Vermont 2-1-1 website for medication disposal. This represents forty-eight percent of the searches for the month of May.

Read Vermont 2-1-1’s monthly contact volume report here.

​Eating Healthy in the Summer

Who doesn’t like to get outside, explore, and enjoy the fresh air! In the month of June, the sun is shining and the temps are rising. In Vermont, a popular and well enjoyed outside activity is to explore the farmer’s markets all over the state. Farmer’s market offer an array of locally grown produce, farm goods, savory treats, fresh flowers and handmade crafts. Some farmer’s markets even offer activities for children and musical entertainment. Look here to find a farmer’s market near you.

Refreshing Summer Snack Recipe

STRAWBERRY CHIA WATERMELON SMOOTHIE (2 servings) 

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups (240 g) fresh watermelon, cubed (black seeds removed)
1 cup (120 g) frozen strawberries
1/2 ripe banana (50 g), previously peeled, chopped and frozen
1/2 – 3/4 cup (120-180 ml) unsweetened plain almond milk (DIY recipe)
1 lime, juiced (~30 ml)
1 Tbsp chia or hemp seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until creamy and smooth, adding more almond milk to thin, or more frozen strawberries or ice to thicken.

2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more lime for acidity, banana for sweetness, or watermelon for a more intense watermelon flavor.​ Serves 2 – top with additional chia seeds to mock watermelon seeds!

Best when fresh, though leftovers keep covered in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.[Serving size: 1 smoothie (1/2 of recipe) Calories: 182 Fat: 6.2g Saturated fat: 0.8g Carbohydrates: 30g Sugar: 14g Sodium: 48mg Fiber: 9g Protein: 5g]

(From the Minimalist Baker)

​Emergency Housing in Vermont

Through a partnership with the State of Vermont’s Economic Services Division, Vermont 2-1-1 administers the After Hours Emergency Housing Program beginning at 4:30pm weekdays, throughout weekends and on state/federal holidays. Housing in Vermont has reached a critical need.

Vermont 2-1-1 Information and Referral (I&R) Specialists responded to 156 calls regarding housing needs. I&R specialists provide needs assessment, problem-solving support, and information and referrals to a wide range of services to each caller. Review Vermont 2-1-1’s Emergency Housing Report for May here.​


​Vermont 2-1-1 Web Statistics

In addition to the contact statistics, the following data is from the 2-1-1 website and shows how the public used the database search engine during the month of May:

Top Services: Medication Disposal (424 searches); Homeless Intake (formerly homeless motel vouchers) (167 searches); Pet Care Services (143 searches); Assistive Technology Equipment Loan (112 searches); Mental Health Evaluation (86 searches)

Top Agencies: Salvation Army (Rutland); Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO); Center for Restorative Justice; Vermont Department for Children and Families – Economic Services Division; Good Samaritan Network

Top Search by City: ​​Lincoln; New Haven; Burlington; Bridport; Hancock

Total Site Visits: 6086

Unique (First-Time) Visitors: 1716

 

Welcome Nanci!

Nanci Gordon, the newest Outreach Specialist for Vermont 2-1-1 in Rutland and Bennington Counties, was most recently the Director of Development and Alumni Relations for College of St. Joseph in Rutland from which she graduated summa cum laude and still serves both as an adjunct instructor in Communications and the Vice President of the Alumni Association.

She is also a graduate of the New School Center for Media in Albany, NY — which launched her nearly thirty years in broadcasting, serving stations in Middlebury, VT and Glens Falls, NY, as well as in Rutland. Because of her passion and experience, she operates a small business — Nanci Gordon Media Services — which boasts its own new studio in Middlebury.

Nanci also has fifteen years’ experience in the non-profit sector — with Housing Trust of Rutland County, Rutland County Women’s Network and Shelter, Community Care Network, Vermont Association of Business, Industry and Rehabilitation, and United Way of Rutland County.

​

Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

Did you know…?

• Alzheimer’s Disease is the 6th leading cause of death in Vermont.

• More than 13,000 Vermonters are living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia.

• 6.1 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of  dementia.

• Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia will have cost the nation $277 billion in 2018.

Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. There are 10 warning signs and symptoms.

  1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
  2. Challenges in planning and solving problems
  3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure
  4. Confusion with time or place
  5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
  6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
  7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
  8. Decreased or poor judgement
  9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
  10. Changes in mood and personality

To find resources, search these Taxonomy Terms in the Vermont 2-1-1 database

Throughout June you will find Alzheimer’s Association — Vermont Chapter events happening across the state. Visit www.alz.org/vermont for information.

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Introducing our NEW Volunteer Connection!

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We’ve just launched our new Volunteer Connection and are working harder than ever to connect volunteers with their passion to help our community!



Hello,

In the past few weeks we have launched our brand NEW Volunteer Connection platform through our website! Check it out to learn more about the many volunteer opportunities in our communities and find a way to give back that engages your passion and helps your community! There are tons of incredible ways to help, so take a look at our nonprofit partners, the new opportunities, and some of the incredible events that these organizations put on to help them accomplish their mission! This is the best and easiest way to be part of the change that makes our communities thrive!
And, TODAY is Vermont Gives Day! This is the perfect time to support us or your favorite Vermont nonprofit organizations. Check out more about VT Gives Day or donate now. 

In gratitude,
Carrie Stahler
Director of Funding and Program Development

Green Mountain United Way Updates & Events

 
United Way Day of Caring 2018 
Join us to help clean-up, paint, and landscape at Heaton Woods Senior Residence in Montpelier. There are just a few spots left – Learn more or Register for Day of Caring Now!
 
Congratulations to our NEW K.E.E.P. Financial Coaches!
On May 2 our second class of Financial Coaches completed Intro to Financial Coaching and they are now working with clients in the community. We congratulate each of them for their hard work and thank them for joining us to improve the financial stability of our communities! Read more…

 
Diaper Drive, Saturday, May 19 at The Family Center of Washington County

Did you know that 1 in 3 Vermont families struggle with diaper needs? Support families in the community by dropping off diapers between May 7 – 20.

  • Diaper drop-boxes can be found at Montpelier Shaw’s, Berlin Shaw’s, and at the Green Mountain Transit Office (6088 VT Route 12).
  • If you are unable to donate at these locations, consider a one-time or recurring donation on-line at: fcwcvt.org/donate/
  • Stop by The Family Center of Washington County on Saturday, May 19 to drop off your diapers and enjoy the Family Flea Market!

Nonprofit Partners: Join us for our Quarterly Volunter Coordinator Meeting on Wednesday, May 23 in Barre – RSVP Now!

We are holding a series of quarterly meetings to help share best practices for volunteerism, resources, and encourage networking among volunteer coordinators in our communities. Meetings will alternate between Central VT and the Northeast Kingdom. Please RSVP if you are able to attend.

Community Updates

 
14th Annual Golf Classic
Registration Now Open!

Come golf with us at the Barre Country Club on Friday, August 24 from 10:00am – 5:00 pm. Registration includes cart, meal, and greens fees! Register Now!
Or, consider sponsoring and get complimentary registrations with certain sponsorship levels!
 
Vermont Gives Day 2018 is May 17
All Day TODAY, until midnight tonight, you can support your favorite nonprofit organizations as part of Vermont Gives. Green Mountain United Way is hoping to raise $1000 for our K.E.E.P. Financial Coaching Program to help more families get financial knowledge and support they need to thrive! Learn more about VT Gives here or donate now!

Upcoming Courses for Financial Coaches

 
Advanced Financial Coaching

June 7, 2018 from 8am – 4pm at Capstone Community Action. Find the details and Register now.

Please NOTE – This Course is open to current FINANCIAL COACHES ONLY. If you have not yet taken Intro to Financial Coaching you will not be able to attend this course.
 
Debt Management &
Credit as an Asset

June 19, 2018 from 9am – 4pm at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital. Find the details and Register now.

Please NOTE – This Course is open to current FINANCIAL COACHES ONLY. If you have not yet taken Intro to Financial Coaching you will not be able to attend this course.

The Community Campaign closes in June, help us hit our goal of $500,000!
We are so close and need your help to make our goal! Help those in your community and make a lasting impact in health, education, and financial stability!

 

Copyright © 2018 Green Mountain United Way, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:

Green Mountain United Way

73 Main Street, #33

Montpelier, VT 05602

Phone: 802-613-3989


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Spring Worksite Wellness Activities

Timothy Barre Leave a comment
 

Happy Spring!

This spring feels particularly hard earned. Fortunately, there are several activities coming up that will get us outside. Here are just a few suggestions:

  • May is National Bike Month which features an ever-expanding diversity of events in communities nationwide, including:
  • Vermont State Parks open May. Many open Memorial Day weekend, but this schedule has the opening date for each park.
  • May is also when the outdoor Farmer’s Markets open. Find the Market closest to you on the Northeast Organic Farming Association of Vermont website.

Spring Worksite Wellness Activities

~ Ashwinee Kulkarni, MPH 

The warm weather has finally arrived! Spring is a great time to get started with a worksite wellness program or re-energize an existing one. Check out the Health Department’s Worksite Wellness Page for tips and resources on how to get started or to get new ideas. We also have new section with resources specific to several different occupations. Here are five worksite wellness activities that you can try this summer to promote healthy eating and an active lifestyle:

  • Partner with a local farm or food hub to have Community Supported Agriculture shares (CSAs) delivered on-site.
  • Promote walking meetings or walking groups.
  • Plant a worksite garden.
  • Support active commuting to work.
  • Don’t forget about sun safety.

More…. 

Unraveling the Mystery of the

Farmer’s Market

~Rebecca O’Reilly, MS, RD

As the weather begins to warm and the landscape begins to green, our thoughts inevitably turn toward spring and summer and taking in all that these seasons have to offer. For me (and I don’t think I’m alone here), food is among the greatest assets that warm weather brings. Fresh produce is available, the grill is fired up, and I am more than happy to set aside my arsenal of warm winter favorites to embrace the cool flavors of summer. Along with great flavor, comes opportunity for great nutrition. Fruits and vegetables that are picked fresh not only taste better, but they pack more key nutrients than those that have been trucked from thousands of miles away. Community farmer’s markets are a great place to support local growers while taking advantage of fresh, flavorful, nutritious fruits and vegetables.

For many of the consumers we see in our daily work, farmer’s markets are a new concept and shopping at one may not be entirely comfortable prospect. Do you remember the last time you tried out a new market? Every time I’m in an unfamiliar shopping environment, I am so overwhelmed by finding what I need and learning the norms of the new space, I forget to buy half of the items on my list (once again, I don’t think I’m alone here). The good news is, we can help make the new experience more enjoyable for individuals and families. Here are some helpful tips and resources for successfully navigating the farmer’s market and getting the most out of a tight food budget.

More…

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The New and Improved FamilyWize Medicine Cabinet!

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APRIL, 2018 

FamilyWize logo

Latest news and updates from FamilyWize

Medicine Cabinet

The New and Improved FamilyWize Medicine Cabinet!

FamilyWize is excited to announce that new features have been added to the FamilyWize Medicine Cabinet. Now available both as a free online tool and within our mobile app, the medicine cabinet helps you to better manage your family’s prescription drug costs, store important information about each prescription, and price compare across local pharmacies in your area.

A Powerful Prescription Drug Price Comparison Tool
The Medicine Cabinet makes it easy to store all of your family’s prescription information in one secure location. Use the Medicine Cabinet to:

  • Create a personal profile to save and track your family’s prescription drug price searches
  • Search and compare prescription drug prices within a designated zip code
  • Compare pricing between generic and brand name prescription meds
  • Instantly access your FamilyWize Prescription Discount Card

With our latest updates, you can also use the FamilyWize mobile app to:

  • Set prescription refill reminders
  • Save dosage information for each prescription
  • Set and save your favorite local pharmacy for faster price checks
  • Receive a reminder to use your FamilyWize Prescription Discount Card every time you enter your favorite pharmacy

Keeping your family’s prescription drug information in one place enables you to save valuable time and money – without ever having to call or visit multiple pharmacies or conduct multiple online searches.

Manage All Your Prescriptions With One Tool
Imagine “Samantha,” a working mother juggling the healthcare purchases for herself, her husband, and their daughter, who was born with a heart condition. After her daughter’s most recent check-up, Samantha logs into the FamilyWize Medicine Cabinet.

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FamilyWize Prescription Savings Card

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Access even more cost-saving features by creating a free account.


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Drug Price Look-Up Tool
Search for the lowest price on your prescription medication.


Drug Price Lookup Tool

Featured Blog Post

3 Things to Know About Switching Pharmacies

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4 Easy Self-Care Tips to Support Your Mental Health

5 Everyday habit to Improve Your Health

Ask an Expert Managing Your Maintenance Medications

Ask An Expert What Your Pharmacist Wants You to Check When You Pick Up a Prescription

Copyright © 2018 FamilyWize, All rights reserved.

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Our mailing address is:

FamilyWize

1720 Spillman Drive, Suite 100

Bethlehem, PA 18015

 

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April Is National Stress Awareness Month

Timothy Barre Leave a comment

 

Vermont 2-1-1

Did You Know…?

In 2017, the 2-1-1 network handled over 12.9 million calls and almost 1 million contacts by text, web chat, and email (82% more than in 2016) for a total 13.8 million transacted contacts. 2-1-1 websites also saw over 16.5 million visits and searches.

Vermont 2-1-1 Monthly Contact Statistics

A message from the Director, MaryEllen Mendl

March Weather Impacts 2-1-1 Contact Center Volume

Vermont’s typically unpredictable March weather and dreary 31 day slog towards spring is largely responsible for the second highest number of 2-1-1 contacts this year. Temperatures that ranged from highs in the 50s to as low as 18 degrees, along with the typical month of March precipitation in the forms of wet snow, sleet and rain, meant that this year’s need for seasonal sheltering from inclement weather remained high. The contact volume of 5,425 clearly shows that the hazards of winter responsible for pushing Vermonters experiencing homelessness to the safety of our seasonal shelters did not subside in the month of March. This month’s After Hours Emergency Housing Report, available for review in this e-newsletter and on the 2-1-1 website, shows that the majority of callers looking for emergency housing and shelter in March were single individuals and single females with children.

Our Contact Specialists provided their customary professional needs assessment, problem-solving support, and information and referrals to a wide range of services, including: homeless shelters, housing organizations, rent and security deposit assistance, food, clothing, transportation, health and mental health services, and domestic violence services.

While monthly totals continue to prove that Vermonters’ reliance on the 2-1-1 service has continued to grow, especially during the winter months, analysis of our data from previous years shows March numbers reflect the end of the winter season and the decrease in contact volume that the spring and summer months bring. An example of the seasonal impact on requests for assistance with basic needs is the demand for utility assistance. Vermonters, while still required to heat more during this colder than usual March, seemed to be able to conserve on warmer days in anticipation of those “few more cold nights.” However, the annual need for Utility Assistance does not decrease for many; it is simply temporarily eased by each April’s warmth.

The most encouraging note during this month, and fast becoming Vermont 2-1-1’s harbinger of spring, is the growing awareness of free tax filing assistance programs that help the low- and moderate-income taxpayers. This valuable resource has meant that each year more Vermonters have retained valuable discretionary income for everyday essentials, such as food and housing. In March, 568 requests for tax filing assistance and tax information were made to 2-1-1 and, in tune with the times, a growing number of Vermonters are now accessing this information by texting the zip code to 898211, an even more efficient way to receive information regarding their tax appointment.

Read Vermont 2-1-1’s monthly contact volume report here.

2018 Help Me Grow National Forum

Since implementing Help Me Grow in Vermont in 2015, each year we have been fortunate to attend the Annual HMG National Forum. The Annual HMG National Forum, hosted by the National Center, is an opportunity for affiliates and partners to network and create new partnerships.

Each year, the event provides increasing national visibility of the Network’s collective efforts and accomplishments and solicits promising ideas and innovations from across the Network. Distinguished speakers facilitate and contribute to general sessions, panel discussions, and keynote addresses, offering insight into the direction and aspirations within the field of early childhood health and system building.

This year Help Me Grow VT staff and partners will be heading to Seattle! Help Me Grow VT will not only be attending, but also presenting four sessions at the forum:

  • Building Strategic Partnerships for System Outreach, Innovation, and Sustainability
  • Bringing Help Me Grow into State Health Care Reform Conversations
  • Enhancing Early Learning through the Dissemination of HMG Innovations
  • HMG Centralized Access Point 101

For Help Me Grow VT, the forum is an amazing opportunity for us to strengthen our work with key partners around the state. Vermont continues to show its dedication to supporting families and children from the State House to local community agencies and we are excited to continue to be part of that effort.

For more information about the Help Me Grow National Center, Help Me Grow affiliates and their work, visit the Help Me Grow National Center website.
To learn more about Help Me Grow VT, visit HMG VT’s website.


Emergency Housing in Vermont

Through a partnership with the State of Vermont’s Economic Services Division, Vermont 2-1-1 administers the After Hours Emergency Housing Program beginning at 4:30pm weekdays, throughout weekends and on state/federal holidays. Housing in Vermont has reached a critical need.

Vermont 2-1-1 Information and Referral (I&R) Specialists responded to 592 calls regarding housing needs. I&R specialists provide needs assessment, problem-solving support, and information and referrals to a wide range of services to each caller. Review Vermont 2-1-1’s Emergency Housing Report for March here.


Vermont 2-1-1 Web Statistics

In addition to the contact statistics, the following data is from the 2-1-1 website and shows how the public used the database search engine during the month of March:

Top Services: Homeless Intake (formerly homeless motel vouchers) (264 searches); Pet Care Services (193 searches); Community Meals (192 searches); Dental Care (150 searches); Assistive Technology Equipment Loan (147 searches)

Top Agencies: Champlain Valley Office for Economic Opportunity (CVOEO); Salvation Army (Burlington); Salvation Army (Rutland); Joint Urban Ministry Project (JUMP); Vermont Department for Children and Families – Economic Services Division

Top Search by City: Burlington; Hancock; New Haven; Rutland; Bennington

Total Site Visits: 4416

Unique (First-Time) Visitors: 1619

April Is National Stress Awareness Month

Stress is a natural part of life; it keeps us on our toes, but when it takes over, it may contribute to physical and mental health issues.

Most Americans experience stress on a daily basis. In a 2017 national survey, 61% of Americans reported that they feel stress about money, and 62% said they feel stress about work.

National Stress Awareness Month seeks to bring attention to measures anyone can take to reduce stress, such as these suggestions from the American Psychological Association (APA):

  • Identify what’s causing stress and develop plans to address it
  • Build strong relationships to serve as a positive resource and buffer
  • Walk away when you’re angry by counting to 10 or getting away from the immediate situation
  • Rest your mind by taking care to get a good night’s sleep
  • Get help if you need to deal with excessive and chronic stress

You can read the complete article here, and another helpful article on stress can be found here.

Vermont 2-1-1 can help put you in touch with resources for handling stress. You can search our database for the following:

Financial Difficulties: A common source of stress – and taking action to address money problems can be one way to help.  Search for either of these terms:

Or, if your financial stress is due to the fact that you are unemployed or underemployed, search for any terms containing the words: Employment or Job. 

Exercise Away Stress: Check out recreational opportunities in your area. Vermont 2-1-1 lists town recreation departments.  Search for the term: Recreational Activities/Sports.

Mental Health Issues: When stress seems like a constant presence, it’s important to take time for yourself, and perhaps consider mental health assistance. Search for any of these terms:

Remember – for personal service you can connect with one of our professional Information & Referral Specialists by dialing 2-1-1 (24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year), or by texting your zip code to 898211 (Monday-Friday 8:00 am to 8:00 pm). Help Me Grow Vermont Child Development Specialists are available to help with stress around issues of children’s development and behavior by dialing 2-1-1 x 6 (Monday-Friday 9:00 am to 6:00 pm) or by visiting their website.

 

  Vermont 2-1-1 · PO Box 111 · Essex Junction, VT 05453 · USA

 

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The 26th Annual Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger® Food Drive is on Saturday, May 12.

Timothy Barre Leave a comment

Letter carriers’ 26th annual food drive set for Sat., May 12 throughout nation

WASHINGTON – The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) will conduct its 26th annual national food drive on Saturday, May 12. The Stamp Out Hunger® Food Drive, the country’s largest single-day food drive, provides residents with an easy way to donate food to those in need in the community.

Customers simply leave their donation of non-perishable goods next to their mailbox before the delivery of the mail on Saturday, May 12. Letter carriers will collect these food donations on that day as they deliver mail along their postal routes and distribute them to local food agencies. Visit www.nalc.org/food to learn more.

The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is the nation’s largest single-day food drive and is held annually on the second Saturday in May in 10,000 cities and towns in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam.

With the economic struggles many Americans face, the Letter Carriers’ Food Drive is as critical as ever. Not only do millions of Americans go hungry, organizations that help them are in need of replenishments.

Hunger affects about 50 million people around the country, including millions of children, senior citizens and veterans. Pantry shelves filled up through winter-holiday generosity often are bare by late spring. And, with most school meal programs suspended during summer months, millions of children must find alternate sources of nutrition.

Letter carriers see these struggles in the communities they serve, and they believe it’s important to do what they can to help.

On Saturday, May 12, as they deliver mail, the nation’s 175,000 letter carriers will collect donations left by residents near their mailboxes. People are encouraged to leave a sturdy bag—paper or plastic—containing non-perishable foods, such as canned soup, canned vegetables, canned meats and fish, pasta, peanut butter, rice or cereal, next to their mailbox before the regular mail delivery on that Saturday.

Letter carriers will take that food to local food banks, pantries or shelters. Several national partners are assisting the NALC in the food drive: the U.S. Postal Service, the National Rural Letter Carriers’ Association (NRLCA), the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), Valpak, United Way Worldwide, the AFL-CIO, the AARP Foundation and Valassis.

This year’s effort includes a public service announcement with award-winning actor and director Edward James Olmos. Television networks and stations can use this link to find and download high-quality versions of the PSA, in English and Spanish.

Since the first national Food Drive in 1993, the Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has collected more than 1.5 billion pounds of food; last year’s drive brought in a record 80 million pounds of food.

People who have questions about the drive in their area should ask their letter carrier, contact their local post office, or go to nalc.org/food, facebook.com/StampOutHunger or twitter.com/StampOutHunger.

 

The 280,000-member National Association of Letter Carriers represents letter carriers across the country employed by the U.S. Postal Service, along with retired letter carriers. Founded by Civil War veterans in 1889, the NALC is among the country’s oldest labor unions.

This poster can be downloaded from HERE

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Vermont Kids Day

Timothy Barre Leave a comment

 

This Saturday, March 31 – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
ALL INDOORS – in Burlington!

Enjoy adorable 802 Reptiles & puppies from Passion for Paws!
Mermaid Dalni – meet and take photos with her in her grotto! 

Bouncy Houses, Train Rides on the Big Blue Express,
Breyer Model Horse Paint & Sip (free juice box, too!)
Face Painting, Arts and Crafts, Theater Improv, Music, Photo Booth, Ball Pools, Inflatable Obstacle Course,
Giant Games with The Big Blue Trunk, Circus Smirkus and MORE!
Free Ramunto’s Pizza slice (under age 12 while supplies last)
Interact with favorite Costumed Characters!

TWO FLOORS OF FUN!

Doubletree by Hilton (formerly called Sheraton), 870 Williston Road, South Burlington, VT 

www.VermontKidsDay.com
Tickets are only $8 per person – age 1 and up
$10 per person at the door
Price includes ALL activities! 

Giant games, ball pools, reptiles, photo booth with costumes! 

Bouncy Houses – Dora the Explorer, obstacle course, castle slide & more! 

Big Blue Express indoor train rides free with your admission ticket!

Copyright © 2018 Event Moguls

Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 1158
Williston, VT 05495

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March is National Nutrition Month®

Timothy Barre Leave a comment

 

Vermont 2-1-1

Vermont 2-1-1 Monthly Contact Statistics

A message from the Director, MaryEllen Mendl

February 11, 2018 marked Vermont 2-1-1’s 13th Anniversary, and the entire 2-1-1 team would like to take this occasion to express its sincere appreciation for the United Ways of Vermont’s continued commitment to the Vermont 2-1-1 program! Over the past thirteen years, our delivery of professional information and referral services to Vermonters has grown in strength, expanded in scope, and increased in reputation, in large part due to the steadfast support of each of Vermont’s local United Way agencies! Our direct response service has been provided to over 444,961 callers and our online resource directory has assisted many more!

The beginning of our fourteenth year is prefaced by the over 11,000 requests for assistance that have come in during the first two months of 2018 5,402 of which were made in February. This means our 2-1-1 contact center averaged 193 incoming calls per day.

Each year more and more Vermonters are calling Vermont 2-1-1 to find out where they can receive free income tax preparation services. In February, referrals to Tax Organizations and Services totaled 992, showing the largest increase in contact numbers over January than any other sub-category.  All Vermonters can dial 2-1-1 to get accurate information about local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and MyFreeTaxes sites closest to them.  Individuals who live or work in Windham, Southern Windsor, and Chittenden Counties, have been able to dial 2-1-1 to get transferred directly to a tax scheduler for appointments. Contact Specialists also provide information about income eligibility guidelines to callers requesting this free service.

This winter has been milder than normal, on average, with above-normal precipitation and snowfall. This, in combination with the State of Vermont’s investment in local community shelter initiatives, may well account for the slight decrease in the number of housing/shelter referrals thus far this year. Crucial to Vermont’s ability to house so many of its most vulnerable population during the winter season is the longstanding commitment of local, volunteer-run emergency warming shelters throughout the state. In the first two months of 2018, a total of 204 callers were referred to alternate shelter (other than motel voucher) during Vermont 2-1-1’s contracted after-hours emergency housing response time.

In the sub-category of Mental Health Assessment and Treatment provision of hotline numbers ranked high. More than half of contact referrals were to Domestic Violence Hotlines, and the remainder of the referrals were to Mental Health Hotlines, including Suicide Prevention Hotlines, Gender Identity Counseling Programs and Runaway/Homeless Youth Helplines.  Vermont 2-1-1 not only responds directly to suicide calls for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline during week days, but our contact specialists also make finding appropriate shelters and resources less difficult for individuals who find themselves in extremely stressful situations.

Read Vermont 2-1-1’s monthly contact volume report here.


Temper Tantrums

We’ve all seen it: crying, screaming, kicking, throwing things and (the sometimes dramatic) collapsing onto the floor. It’s a tantrum. They don’t happen because a child is spoiled or a parent isn’t good at their job; it’s actually a normal part of child development.

Temper tantrums or meltdowns are common for both boys and girls from the ages of 1-3 years and they are how young children express anger and frustration. They happen most often when a child is tired, hungry, overwhelmed or they can’t get something/someone to do what they want. Tantrums are most common during a point in a child’s development when they are starting to develop language skills. Children this age have big feelings and ideas but not always the words to express them. They are also starting to explore their independence and how to control their environment – they want to do things for themselves, which sometimes is harder than they think. The good news is, as their language skills grow and they gain skills to handle and express emotions the tantrums decrease.  When possible, preventing a tantrum is often the best strategy for dealing with them.  Here are a few tips:

1. Get in the habit of catching your child being good; give praise and attention for positive behavior.

2. Offer minor choices that give them some control, such as “Would you like a banana or an orange for snack?” Remember to keep options limited and simple.

3. Use distraction. Young children have short attention spans; try a change in environment or activity to avoid a meltdown.

4. When a tantrum is brewing, don’t respond with your own frustration and anger. Staying calm helps to teach your child how to calm down.

5. Know when your child has reached their limit. If they need a nap, a snack or quiet time, take care of their needs first instead of trying to get one more errand done.

6. Practice naming emotions and feelings with your child.

7. Have a schedule. Transitioning from one activity to another can be difficult for young children. Consistency and knowing what to expect and when to expect it helps.

8. After a tantrum and once your child is calm, offer praise for calming down and assurance that they are loved.

For more information on child development and parenting tips and resources, contact Help Me Grow VT.


Vermont 2-1-1 Web Statistics

In addition to the contact statistics, the following data is from the 2-1-1 website and shows how the public used the database search engine during the month of February:

Top Services: Homeless Intake (formerly homeless motel vouchers) (253 searches); Community Meals (149 searches); Pet Care Services (134 searches); Assistive Technology Equipment Loan (109 searches); Dental Care (92 searches)

Top Agencies: Salvation Army (Rutland); Champlain Valley Office for Economic Opportunity (CVOEO); Vermont Department for Children and Families – Economic Services Division; Capstone Community Action; Good Samaritan Network

Top Search by City: Burlington; Bennington; Essex Junction; Hancock; New Haven

Total Site Visits: 4043

Unique (First-Time) Visitors: 1592


Don’t Forget to Support Your Local United Way!

Each year we see United Way volunteers and staff put on their campaign hats and venture out to raise money for the organization. Your local United Way is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people in your local communities by addressing critical human needs in the critical cornerstone areas of education, financial stability, and health. By bringing people and organizations together around innovative solutions, our local United Ways impact thousands of lives every year. These collaborative, community-based, community-led solutions advance the common good and strive to create a good quality of life for all. The United Way delivers the solutions needed to drive change, but the change starts with each of us. Together we are stronger!

As a program of the United Ways of Vermont, Vermont 2-1-1 asks you to join us in living united! Your contributions will be working year-round building a brighter future for our children, enriching the lives of our elderly, giving hope to those who are hurting, strengthening families, and so much more.

Please join us in helping to build a better future! Thank you.


March is National Nutrition Month®

National Nutrition Month® is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. On their website, you will find articles and videos specifically geared toward parents, seniors, kids, men, and women. Articles include tips on reducing “plate waste,” ensuring men’s bone health, and safe sources of Omega-3 fats for pregnant women.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a colorful and interactive website that contains a vast amount of helpful information about nutrition for kids, teens, college students, adults, families, and professionals. Included are tools and resources such as videos, songs, and activity sheets on a MyPlate Kids’ Place page, MyPlate Quizzes for teens, Resources for Healthy Eating on a Budget, and MyPlate Message Toolkit for Professionals.

Vermont 2-1-1’s database contains a large variety of food and nutrition-related resources for Vermonters of all ages. In general, you can search on the terms Food, Nutrition, or Meals. Some of the specific terms you will find are:

In addition, primary care providers in Vermont offer General Health Education Programs, which include nutrition information and resources. The Vermont Department of Health periodically runs nutrition education campaigns, and the VDH district offices and website have tons of information and often run healthier eating seminars and workshops. And did you know that Medicaid pays for three consultations with a licensed nutritionist?

Remember – you can dial 2-1-1 to reach one of our Information & Referral Specialists who will help you find health, community, government, and human services resources you need, including for nutrition, 24 hours a day 365 days a year.


Emergency Housing in Vermont

Through a partnership with the State of Vermont’s Economic Services Division, Vermont 2-1-1 administers the After Hours Emergency Housing Program beginning at 4:30pm weekdays, throughout weekends and on state/federal holidays. Housing in Vermont has reached a critical need.

Vermont 2-1-1 Information and Referral (I&R) Specialists responded to 578 calls regarding housing needs. I&R specialists provide needs assessment, problem-solving support, and information and referrals to a wide range of services to each caller. Review Vermont 2-1-1’s Emergency Housing Report for February here.

 

 

 

 

 

Vermont 2-1-1 · PO Box 111 · Essex Junction, VT 05453 · USA

 

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