Written on 23 June 2022.

20220621 - Stigma Free Committee Minutes

June Stigma-Free Meeting 6/21/22

Meeting start 3:04pm End 3:43pm

Attendees:

Notes:

Danielle P:

COVID-19 UPDATES regarding vaccines for ages 6+ and booster recommendations for children 5-11 and individuals 12+ (immunocompromised and adults 50+)
Everyone 6 months of age and older can now be protected against severe COVID-19 illness following the recommendation by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
CDC approved children 5-11 for boosters.
CDC approved those 12 and older who are immunocompromised and those 50 and older to receive a second booster dose at least 4 months after their first.
Youth Camp Guidelines have not been updated, but will be posted on https://www.nj.gov/health/cd/topics/covid2019_schools.shtml

*Call the Ridgewood Health Department or visit https://covid19.nj.gov/pages/finder to find a local healthcare provider near you!* Visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html for more information about vaccines.

PRIDE Event was awesome. Dawn and her family, Denise, Margie, and Deanna attended. Speakers were great and it was well attended
Older Americans Month – about 60 cards were shared with SHARE and Family of Caring
Reminder – Dial 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline started July 16 (https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/current-events/the-lifeline-and-988/)
(833) 223 – 0011 - You will be offered phone support, referrals for ongoing treatment and resources to help you through these difficult time - this is from Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care

Jan Botcher:

Asked about bussing rules or capacity as its related to the Citizens for Swimming program. Jan will ensure that participates follow the protocol. Deanna mentioned that her senior bus/ charter has their own rules, and one of the rules is for mask to be worn.
Citizens for Swimming has been running for 50 years, looking for further donations. Social Services, Ridgewood Health Department, and more are donating. Is looking for wrist bands to be donated from 100-200 that are neon colored. As of right now there are 20 kids registered. 08/02 is the first date, and it will run for a couple days a week. The kids are kindergarten through second grade. The kids involved are provided with transportation. R
Ridgewood’s Moms and Dads Facebook page has a strong following. Jan encourages us to share our resources with them. Also, suggested printing large QR code for tabling/ exhibiting purposes (Ridgewood Health Department) to build a following.

Paul V:

Inquired if Ridgewood DOH is able to answer questions regarding to vaccines. Danielle P, suggested they reach out to their primary care physician, Ridgewood is not providing vaccine to those aged 6 months to 5 years of age.
Individuals can call Ridgewood Health Department for locations where to get vaccinated and other COVID-19 resources.

Gabrielle:

Mentioned Lauren her co-worker partnered with Parks and Rec for the step-up event on Friday, June 10. It was very successful. It was well received by students. Mentioned that this Friday at 6:30 pm, Lukin Center for Psychotherapy will host an Instagram live for PRIDE.
IG handle @lukincenter

Danielle F:

Paramus Health Department is partnering with Valley Hospital for virtual LGBTQ event on June 29. Register here: https://www.valleyhealth.com/events/lgbtq101-understanding-sexuality

Lisa Trent:

Ridgewood Cycle shop donated helmets and more for adult summer readings. Virtual Medicare program Tuesday, 6/28/22 6:30pm, Sheila Brogan will be hosting the event. All 65 years+, who people not covered by insurance may find this useful.

Mary Davey:

Mentioned West Bergen has been overwhelmed with influx of clients, but will be participating in the Music Under the Stars partnership. Mary will look into what giveaways she can provide for the Jan’s Citizens for Swimming program.

John T. Judge:

Due to the recent fire there is a need for smoking cessation. There is a member who is open and wants to share his journey with smoking. Will connect Ridgewood DOH for smoking related programs.

For previous/upcoming events:

Danielle mentioned that Dawn suggested maybe next year for Pride we can start the planning process earlier and collaborate with local organizations.
Ridgewood DOH is looking to partner with Valley, Ridgewood Fire and Ridgewood Police on smoking cessation, and fire prevention.
Fall planning has begun!
- School Fair in September
- Senior Fair in October
- Mental Health Program with West Bergen - TBD
- Balance and Thrive repeated event in November – TBD

Next meeting July 19 at 3 PM