Childcare for essential workers, sponsor a senior and more

Mental health support line

PENNSYLVANIA —  A 24/7 mental health and crisis support line for people dealing with anxiety or other difficult emotions has become available for residents of Pennsylvania . Callers will be able to speak with staff who are trained in trauma-informed principles and will listen, assess the person’s needs, triage and refer t other local supports and professionals as needed.

 This mental health support line can be reached toll-free anytime at 1-855/284-2494 from anywhere in PA.

It’s a difficult time, and it’s easy to feel alone and cut-off from the world, but we need people to know that they are not alone and support is available.

RCLS adapts for its patrons

ONLINE — The 47 libraries of the Ramapo Catskill Library System (RCLS) have opened its digital channels as a new way to reach patrons.

Many libraries are also reaching out to their patrons to check in on them and see if they need assistance connecting to resources, such as food delivery and mental health services.

For more information, visit www.rcls.org and your local library’s social media platforms. See page 17 for a list of library websites.

Childcare for essential workers 

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY — By executive order, the public school districts of Sullivan County have developed emergency childcare plans for essential workers: first responders, healthcare workers, food manufacturers, supermarket workers, food preparation workers, commercial truck drivers, transit workers, carriers of critical and essential materials, construction workers, manufacturing workers, specialized equipment workers related to health or safety of the public, and nonprofit and social service agencies providing support to families, and employees in related fields.

The plan calls for a service by appointment where children can be dropped off and picked up by their parents. The primary site for essential workers to bring their children will be the RISE Building at Catskill Regional Medical Center. The plan is meant to serve those essential workers for whom childcare has become a burden during the response to COVID-19.  

Completion of this survey (www.bit.ly/childcaresurveysc) is the first step to identify the need within the county. Participants will be contacted directly by the program coordinators with further information.

Sponsor a senior

PIKE COUNTY, PA — The Pike County Area Agency on Aging has suspended its senior center activities in response to the pandemic. However, it is still preparing meals for its meal program that delivers to homes. The number of those receiving meals has grown from 800 to 1,000 meals delivered weekly. 

The Pike County Area Agency on Aging is asking the community to sponsor a senior for $15 to cover the cost of meals for a week. Any size donations are welcome.

For more information or to donate, visit www.pikepa.org, call 570/775-5550 or send your donation to 150 Pike County Blvd., Lords Valley, PA 18428.