MONTGOMERY, NY — We all feel afraid and isolated. But now there is a chance to remind others that they are not forgotten.

This year, the Kingfisher Project launched “Hearten for the Holidays,” calling on people to fill care packages for those who are spending the holidays in a substance-use rehab facility.

Self-care products like toothpaste, body wash or lip balm were suggested, as well as writing paper and pens. Puzzle books. Journals. Anything that might help someone in rehab remember that the community cares how they’re doing.

“The response has been overwhelming,” said Julie Pisall, Kingfisher director. “We needed 45 bags filled for Dynamite Youth Fallsburg and 52 are being filled to date.” Bags will be delivered around December 21, and extras will be given to those going into rehab.

Meanwhile, there are the families.

 Addiction, Pisall reminds us, touches not just the person with the disease but also their loved ones. “There is no easy answer; they need to also know they are not alone.”

There is stigma, and it keeps families quiet. They think their child or loved one is the only one suffering, and so the subject is buried, “My advice is to talk about it and seek help,” Pisall said. “Once they do this, they will realize there are other families in similar situations and that can be a big help.” 

If you missed the chance to fill a bag for someone in rehab, you can still donate to the Kingfisher Project. Visit the donation page at www.cfosny.org/the-kingfisher-project-fund.

And if you know a family that is suffering... reach out and remind them that people care.