THE HOLIDAYS ARE NO EXCUSE FOR VIOLENCE

 

   As the year comes to an end, GATHER DV, New Hope and SEMA-VAV once again collaborate to raise awareness about domestic violence and abuse as co-sponsors of an informational campaign, The Holidays Are NO Excuse For Violence. 

What: Press conference/reception

When: December 6^th, 2004, 3:30 – 4:30 PM

Where: Pilgrim Congregational Church, 45 Broadway, Taunton MA

   The agenda includes:

·         The publication debut of the booklet, Through My Eyes: Voices Against Violence, Voices of Hope.  This compilation of essays, poems and stories is the result of a National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 18-24, 2004) project.  Contributors, including several students from Hingham High School and friends and family of Jason Burgeson, a victim of a brutal car jacking, will receive certificates of appreciation for their support of this project.

·         A Gift of Hope Action Kits will be on display.  These kits are available to the community at large to use to generate discussions from the kitchen table to the corporate boardroom about violence education and prevention as well as how to reach local resources.  Materials include brochures, videos, bumper stickers, posters and more, appropriate for ages 6 to 70+, and for those with disabilities.

·         Volunteers from October’s National Make a Difference Day’s A Gift of Hope projects will receive certificates of appreciation.

·         Recognition that SEMA-VAV has been awarded a Verizon Wireless Hopeline Grant to help underwrite the Gift of Hope Action Kits.  SEMA-VAV will be collecting used cell phones for recycling. The HopeLine grant uses these funds to support domestic violence victims in a number of ways, such as cell phones for DV victims to use in an emergency and funding community outreach and education.

   Everyone is invited to attend.  We hope for a positive demonstration of community solidarity.  Those representing agencies or organizations will be asked to identify that agency/group and will receive a Gift of Hope Action Kit and a copy of Through My Eyes.

   For information, contact Annemarie Matulis at 508-922-7278 or email to matulisannie@msn.com

CHRISTMAS DINNERS, BASKETS, AND GIFTS

AVAILABLE IN GATHER AREA

(United Way of Greater Attleboro/Taunton)

   Christmas dinner will be held on December 25, 2003. All phone numbers are in the 508 exchange.

City/Town:	Dinners:	Baskets:	Gift Programs:
Attleboro	Call United Way for further information: 223-4636	Self Help, 226-4192 St. John’s Church, 222-8400 South Attleboro: St. Theresa’s Church, 243-4386 Holy Ghost Church, 222-3266	Council for Children’s Christmas Is For Kids, 226-2336, or www.councilforchildren.org
Berkley	Coyle & Cassidy High School, Breakfast 8:30, Dinner 11-1	St. Bernard’s, 644-5585	Operation Christmas, Citizens for Citizens, ages 0-12, 823-6346
Dighton	Coyle & Cassidy High School, Breakfast 8:30, Dinner 11-1	N. Dighton: St. Joseph’s, 822-1425 S. Dighton: St. Peter’s, 669-6463	Operation Christmas, Citizens for Citizens, ages 0-12, 823-6346
Mansfield	Call United Way for further information: 223-4636	Mansfield Social Services, 261-7464 Westside Benevolent, 339-3397	Christmas Is For Kids, Westside Benevolent, 339-3397
N. Attleboro	Call United Way for further information: 223-4636	Ann Marie Flemming, Town Nurse, 699-0104	Council for Children’s Christmas Is For Kids, 226-2336, or www.councilforchildren.org Enchanted Elves: 695-8299
Norton	Call United Way for further information: 223-4636	St. Mary’s, 285-4462	Council for Children’s Christmas Is For Kids, 226-2336, or www.councilforchildren.org or pick up applications at Norton Public Library, Norton Fire Department. Judy: 285-0248
Plainville	Call United Way for further information: 223-4636	Call United Way for further information: 223-4636	Enchanted Elves: 695-8299
Raynham	Coyle & Cassidy High School, Breakfast 8:30, Dinner 11-1	St. Ann’s, 823-9833	Citizens for Citizens’ Operation Christmas, 823-6346 St. Anne’s Church Giving Tree, Ages 0-16, 823-9833
Rehoboth	Coyle & Cassidy High School, Breakfast 8:30, Dinner 11-1	Rehoboth Helping Hands, 252-3263	Council for Children’s Christmas Is For Kids, 226-2336, or www.councilforchildren.org Rehoboth Helping Hands, 252-3263
Seekonk	Call United Way at 223-4636 for further information.	Seekonk Human Services, 336-8772	Council for Children’s Christmas Is For Kids, 226-2336, or www.councilforchildren.org
Taunton	Coyle & Cassidy High School, Breakfast 8:30, Dinner 11-1	St. Vincent DePaul, 823-6676 Parish of the Annunciation Church: 823-9577 Or any Catholic Church	Council for Children’s Christmas Is For Kids, 226-2336, or www.councilforchildren.org

 Did You Know That…?

Morton Hospital & Medical Center Calendar of Events offerings include Healing Through Humor, 12/09/04, 6:30 pm, FREE, Margaret Stone Conference Room. Preregistration required; Anger Management, 1/7/05, 8:00 am, Free, Silver City Galleria Community Room; Making Goals and Sticking to Them, 1/18/05, 6:30 pm, FREE, Margaret Stone Conference Room. Preregistration required; What You Should Know About Personal Finances, 1/25/05, 6:30 pm, FREE, Margaret Stone Conference Room. Preregistration required. To preregister, call 508-828-7777.

Practice Guidelines for Treating Gambling-Related Problems, An Evidence-Based Treatment Guide for Clinicians is available through the MA Council on Compulsive Gambling at 617-426-4554. Shipping and handling is charged based on the number ordered. It is also available online at www.masscompulsivegambling.org/resources

Garden of Peace is a memorial for all Massachusetts victims of homicide, regardless of circumstance, and is a visual reminder of the number of people lost to senseless violence every year. The central design piece of the garden, located in Boston adjacent to the 100 Cambridge Street Building, is a dry streambed containing large river stones engraved with the names of victims. To submit a name for a river stone or for more information, log on to www.gardenofpeacememorial.org.

The Men’s Initiative of Jane Doe, Inc. works to encourage men and boys to speak up about stopping sexual assault and domestic abuse, and to connect and support male leaders of all ages and backgrounds with projects to end violence and oppression. Their new website is located at www.mijd.org/news. You may contact the initiative by emailing Craig at cnorbergbohm@janedoe.org, or call 617-557-1802.

The United Way of Greater Attleboro/Taunton offers a volunteer directory which can be downloaded at www.uwgat.org. They also have a club and organization book for sale.

Resource Directory is available online at www.MassCares.org. It contains an eligibility tool, with resources both local and beyond, updated regularly by call centers.

Early Experimenters are More Likely to Become Adult Smokers – According to the Chapel Hill Center of the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation in N. Caroline, children who smoked only one cigarette by 5^th grade were twice as likely to be current smokers at age 17 as those who never smoked as children. For information on this study, see Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, November 2004 edition.

Massachusetts Nonprofit Housing Association Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) provides short term, limited financial assistance which will enable families to retain housing, obtain new housing or otherwise avoid homelessness. The population targeted is homeless families that lack a permanent primary residence and families at risk of becoming homeless because they cannot afford housing costs without financial assistance. For information, contact Kay Eldridge at 781-422-4271.

COALITION/COMMITTEE MINUTES 

Discussion Highlights:

Highlights from the (Online) Professional Training Conference on Abuse of Children and Adults with Disabilities – What Attitudes, Skills and Knowledge Are the Keys to Making a Difference? (PowerPoint Presentation by Lorraine Rosa)  – This first conference workshop stressed that most of the time we don’t even know what attitudes we are experiencing, yet they are there. And they actually have an effect on how we conduct ourselves with people who have disabilities. We may unthinkingly use words or facial expressions (looks) that are painful to the individual with a disability. Positive behavioral examples include talking directly to the person, rather than about the person with their family or assistants, using words and phrases that people with disabilities have agreed is most pleasing to them, and recognizing when we are entering an area that is outside our knowledge and/or skill or expertise. Next month’s presentation is Research Update on Children & Adults with Disabilities.

Informational Outreach / Action Kits are presented in white or lilac bags, large and small size, and address different audiences. Some contents include a video & workbook on victims of crimes with disabilities, brochures for youth, brochures from the Office of Victims of Crime dealing with elder issues, an informational piece from Associates for Human Services, New Hope resource cards, and Turning Point Brochures. Information on “No Bullying” was suggested.

The Holidays are NO Excuse for Violence – A press conference & reception will be held 12/6/04, 3:30-4:30, Pilgrim Congregational Church, 45 Broadway, Taunton

·         Introduction of informational Action Kits for families, faith-based groups, & businesses, etc. that contain domestic violence and abuse education & prevention materials

·         Debut of 2004 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week booklet, Through My Eyes – Voices Against Violence, Voices of Hope

·         Recognition of 2004 National Make a Difference Day Volunteers

·         Verizon Wireless HopeLine Grant Project – Donate old cell phones to benefit domestic violence victims. The Committee suggested that drop off place for cell phones would be convenient if it were at a location such as the police station.

·         The event is co-sponsored by SEMA Voices Against Violence, GATHER, New Hope, Inc, and Verizon Wireless HopeLine Grant. All are encouraged to attend, including any officials.

Announcements:

·         National Sexual Assault Awareness & National Crime Victims’ Rights Week will be held in April 2005.

·         Coping with Children Who Witness Violence is a conference to be held 12/1/04, 8:30-2:00, at Bridgewater State College.

·         Legal and Psychological Information for Mandated Reporters is scheduled for 1/18/05. A springtime “Take Back the Night” is also planned. For information, see www.bridgew.edu/marc.

·         Mentors in Violence Prevention now has 20 participating members. The group does instructional presentations on issues such as being an empowered bystander.

·         Safe Neighborhood Initiative – Taunton is exploring a new phone system that has the ability to multicall large numbers of telephones in a short time, in the event of a crisis. The Mayor has a technology committee exploring this. They are also beginning a Neighborhood Watch group in the Weir. The next meeting is 12/1/04. SNI members examined legislation that deals with student assaults against school personnel. Another piece of legislation deals with school notification of students who commit crimes in cities or towns outside of their school of attendance.

·         District Attorney’s Domestic Violence Roundtable met yesterday. They discussed issues of Portuguese speaking victims of domestic violence. The group plans to create a resource book of Portuguese speaking providers.

·         Arbor-Fuller works collaboratively with New Hope. On 12/1/04, AF starts the new Elder Care Program.

·         Grants – Annemarie is writing a UPS grant, and a Jimmy Buffet “Sing for Change” grant. Members will also consider the OVC reimbursement grant for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 10-16, 2005.

·         Taunton High football players will be at many retail sites around Taunton/Raynham on Sunday, 11/21/04, as part of a community service project. Team members, supported by the THS Gridiron Club, were slated to be giving out New Hope hotline/resource cards and accepting donations to benefit New Hope.

Next Steps:

Contact the District Attorney’s Office for “No Bullying” brochures and information

Next meeting presentation: Research Update on Children & Adults with Disabilities.

Next Meeting: 12/16/04 (3^rd Thursday of the Month), 3:30, New Hope, 39 Taunton Green

Contact Person:

Dan LeBrun, 508-226-4015

Discussion Highlights:

Top 10 Ways to Save A Child’s Life – An 8 ½ x 11 poster/flyer will be distributed throughout the community, to educate parents to prevent unintentional injury or death. Suggested venues include pediatricians offices, childcare centers, public housing, library story hours, Associates for Human Services, Headstart, Kindergarten registration, health fairs, and GTHHSC member agencies through The Advocate newsletter inserts.

Next Steps:

Create a letter to pediatricians and other providers with concerns for young children, to market the Top 10 Ways to Save a Child’s Life flyers/posters.

Assess the cost of production and mailing of letters and posters.

Look for funding for the poster project.

Contact fire departments for information on window guards.

Next Meeting: 12/21/04, 9:00, A.H.S.

Contact Person: Lorraine Rosa, 508-823-4822 

Discussion Highlights:

Criminal Justice Committee – Fast track has 12 adults and 1 juvenile. The next meeting is scheduled for 12/9/04.

Crisis Intervention Team training occurred in November, and was attended by police, mall security and health care professionals.

Treatment and Prevention:

·         A presentation of Project YELL was held at the October meeting.

·         A survey has been conducted at Middleboro High School.

·         The Substance Abuse Round Table X topic will be Juvenile Prevention and Treatment.

·         Red Ribbon Week’s theme is Working Toward a Drug Free Community.

·         Project ALERT will not be offered during the school day, but at alternate times and locations, such as after school and/or summer. 

Community Crisis Spiritual Response Team – A tabletop drill was held in October. The next drill will be a live drill. About 15-18 clergy are ready and available to respond.

Education Committee

·        Copies of Bristol Plymouth’s desk reference crisis flipchart were presented.

·        Discussion occurred regarding a new telephone system which could inform families of a potential crisis situation.

Announcements:

·         Ten additional students were trained in the Mentors for Violence Prevention peer leadership program on teen dating violence.

·         The Taunton Police Department is working with the Sheriff’s office to provide tracking bracelets for people with Alzheimers.

Neighborhoods Committee

·         David attended two meetings regarding workforce development issues.

·         The Weir Neighborhood Watch had 85 in attendance. A follow-up meeting will be held 12/1/04, 7:00pm, at Our Lady of Lourdes. A Neighborhood Watch was held for Shores and Clifford Streets.

·         A fundraiser for the homeless will be held 12/9/04. Contact Mary Ellen at ProHome at 508-821-1092 for tickets. Discussion occurred regarding homelessness issues.

Program Update

·  Legislation previously submitted by Rep. Fagan was distributed. The wording may be revised for the representative to resubmit.

·        Jobs for Youth has one youth actively working and three in the hiring process.

·        The next abandoned property was chosen.

·        SNI will continue to meet at Fairfax Gardens

·        Assistance District Attorney Dan Igo will attend future meetings.

Next Steps:

All committees will work on needs to address safety concerns in the target neighborhood.

Rev. Sweet and Lorraine Rosa will work on positive public relations for SNI

 Next Meeting: 12/22/04, 8:00, Fairfax Gardens Community Center.

Contact Person: Robert Cammarata, 508-821-1420.

 

Discussion Highlights:

Homelessness

·         A speaker from South Shore Housing will talk about the RAFT program at a GATCH meeting. A number of people have expressed concern about difficulties families are having obtaining assistance.

·         Recommendations from last month’s meeting of Attleboro Homeless Coalition included  having a fund “For Hours of Warmth” to be used to shelter homeless individuals in area hotel/motels on extremely cold nights.

·         In Taunton, there will be a fundraiser at Benjamin’s restaurant with proceeds going to TEMA to assist homeless; Tickets will be $20.

·         The annual “Point in Time” count will take place 1/29/05. Information will be sent out after Thanksgiving.

·         The only city building staffed 24hrs X 7 days per week that is willing to accept homeless on extreme weather nights is the Taunton Police Department.  The Samaritan House also expands accommodations from 17 to 22 during cold spells.

Fuel Fund/Emergency Services - Fuel assistance has started at CFC.  The highest allotment amount will be $565.  After December, CFC will begin working with Kennedy Oil.  Agency is hoping FEMA money will come through.  United Way has granted ETF $18,500 for non-fuel emergency assistance which will be paid out quarterly. 

Agency Sharing:

St. Vincent de Paul has about 150 coming to Wednesday distributions. There are concerns about the individuals standing in line in the cold weather. Less food available through Boston Food Bank due to increased demand. More food is being bought to stock pantry.  Requests are up for utility and fuel assistance. Please share any ideas about how to help.

Board of Health – No flu clinics being held due to lack of vaccine caused by a manufacturer’s shut down. BOH and Morton Hospital are doing teaching and providing information in public schools, nursing homes, adult day cares about other flu prevention strategies.

CFC - Applications and fundraising for Operation Xmas (for Taunton, Dighton, Raynham & Berkeley) has begun.

People call first to get information and set an appointment for fuel assistance. Deb will keep people informed about coat/hat/mitten donations

Associates for Human Services is accepting applications for two openings. The Annual Spaghetti Supper was a huge success.

Triumph Head Start is full. Applications are being accepted.

Department of Human Services – The Dental Program at the Senior Drop-in Center had a kick-off event. Efforts will be made to duplicate the program in Attleboro.

American Red Cross Boston office is reorganizing.

United Way – Area Target stores will give away completely decorated Christmas trees. See page 2 for information on Christmas meals, baskets and gift programs.

Church at the Crossroads – The Lord Cares Food Pantry has taken over 200 requests for holiday baskets. A few more can be accepted.

MLK Counseling and Learning Center is facing the possibility of an office closing. They are seeking new space and grant funding.

Next Meeting: 12/07/04, 9:30, TEMA Office

Contact Person: Millie Burrows, 508-880-0202