Tag: spotlight

Social Work Spotlight: Safe Families for Children (SFFC) Quad Cities

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Safe Families for Children (SFFC) Quad Cities: A Lifeline for Families in Crisis

This month, we are turning our attention to an organization that is making a profound difference in the lives of families facing crisis in the Quad Cities region. Safe Families for Children (SFFC) Quad Cities. Since 2005, Safe Families for Children has provided a compassionate safety net for families in Iowa and Illinois, helping parents navigate hardships like homelessness, unemployment, medical emergencies, Incarceration, and other personal challenges.

At the heart of Safe Families for Children is a mission of family preservation. The organization aims to keep children safe while empowering parents to stabilize their lives. By creating a Circle of Support, SFFC connects children with screened and trained Host Families who provide temporary, loving homes. This allows parents to address their personal challenges without fear of losing custody of their children. This support is crucial, offering a lifeline enabling families to remain intact while they get back on their feet.

Established in 2003 in Chicago, Safe Families for Children is part of a national movement dedicated to keeping children out of the foster care system and changing how families in crisis are supported. Instead of promoting separation, SFFC focuses on preserving families, aiming to decrease the number of children entering foster care. Safe Families offers temporary, voluntary care, establishing a community-driven support system to empower families during challenging periods.

One of Safe Families’ key distinctions is that hosting is 100% voluntary. Parents retain full custody of their children throughout the process and can request their return anytime. Depending on the family’s needs, hosting can last as briefly as a few hours or as long as several months upon volunteer availability. During this time, parents can focus on overcoming their crisis, knowing that their children are in safe and caring hands.

Volunteers serve as Host Families and act as an extended family, providing children with a nurturing, stable environment. Communication between parents and Host Families is a cornerstone of the program, ensuring parents stay connected with their children throughout the process.

Safe Families’ success lies in its volunteer-driven approach. Volunteers are background-checked and well-trained, serving in several key roles:

  • Host Families: These families open their homes to children needing temporary care, providing a safe, nurturing environment.
  • Family Friends: These volunteers support parents and Host Families through friendship, encouragement, transportation, meals, and practical help during challenging times.
  • Resource Friends: These individuals donate essential items like groceries, household goods, clothing, and other necessities to help families meet their basic needs.
  • Family Coaches: These volunteers walk alongside parents, helping them set goals and offering guidance as they work towards regaining stability.

The Quad Cities chapter of SFFC has partnered with local churches, community agencies, and government organizations to build a robust network of support. Together, they provide a comprehensive system of care that ensures children are safe and families are kept together.

Safe Families for Children is more than just a temporary solution. It is a community-driven initiative rooted in kindness, compassion, and generosity. The Quad Cities Chapter of Safe Families offers reliable, unwavering assistance and support to families in crisis, ensuring children are safe and families remain together.

For more information about Safe Families for Children, to volunteer, or to seek help, contact the local office at 563-949-9803 or quadcities@safefamilies.net. Or visit their website at hpps://quadcities.safe-families.org

Social Work Spotlight: Gilda’s Club Quad Cities

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Cancer Support Community: Providing Comprehensive Support for Cancer Patients

Our resource spotlight shines on Gilda’s Club Quad Cities, newly known as Cancer Support Community Iowa and NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club. Since 1998, Gilda’s Club has been a pillar of hope and support for cancer patients and their families. From its beginnings at the Mansion with the Red Door on River Drive to its current locations inside the Genesis Cancer Center, Gilda’s Club Davenport, and the UnityPoint Health – Trinity Cancer Center, Gilda’s Club Moline has continually expanded its services, reaching nearly 4,500 individuals.

In line with its mission to provide comprehensive support, CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club has introduced two programs designed to enhance its services and positively impact the cancer patient’s journey: the Wig Salon and the Free Healthy Take-and-Bake Meals program. Understanding the emotional impact of hair loss during cancer treatment, CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club has established The Wig Salon to provide free wigs to those experiencing this difficult side effect. This compassionate service addresses a crucial, often overlooked aspect of the cancer journey, helping individuals maintain their self-esteem and sense of normalcy.

The Wig Salon is more than just a place to receive a wig; it’s a sanctuary of empathy and understanding. CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club team recognizes that hair loss can be a deeply personal and distressing experience. By offering free wigs, they aim to alleviate some emotional burdens, allowing individuals to face their diagnosis with confidence and dignity. Each wig is carefully selected and styled to meet each person’s preferences and needs, ensuring they look and feel their best.

In addition to The Wig Salon, CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club also offers the Free Healthy Take-and-Bake Meals program. These nutritious, home-cooked meals are prepared by Angerer Eats and are available once a week for anyone impacted by cancer in the Quad Cities community. The meals are frozen and ready to take home and bake at your convenience, offering a practical and heartfelt way to support families during challenging times. Cancer patients or their families can pick up meals once a week at Gilda’s Club Davenport or Gilda’s Club Moline.

These two programs complement the extensive range of services already provided by CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club, which include:

  • Support Groups: These are safe spaces for individuals to share their experiences and a place to connect with others who understand their journey. These groups are not just about sharing experiences but about building a community of understanding and support. There are groups for patients, caregivers, the bereaved, and specific types of cancer, fostering a supportive community.
  • Monthly Social Activities and Holiday Get-Togethers: These events promote fellowship and belonging while offering a break from the routine and a chance to celebrate life’s moments.
  • Programs for Children, Teens, and Families: Tailored programs support children and teens dealing with a loved one’s diagnosis and include activities that bring families together.
  • Healthy Lifestyle Activities: These activities are not just about physical health but also about promoting mental and emotional healing, which is essential for physical recovery. They include stress reduction techniques and healthy living practices, all contributing to a holistic approach to cancer care.
  • Educational Workshops: Workshops provide valuable information on living with cancer, addressing challenges, and thriving despite the diagnosis. These workshops are not just about providing information, but about empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to navigate their journey. Topics include nutrition, exercise, managing side effects, and understanding treatment options. CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club remains committed to evolving and meeting the community’s needs, striving to make its services more accessible and impactful.

For more information about CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club and its services and programs, please visit https://www.gildasclubqc.org/support-services/ or contact CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club at 563-326-7504 or email: gc@gildasclubqc.org. CSC Iowa & NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club physical locations are Gilda’s Club Davenport: 1351 W. Central Park Ave., Suite 200, Davenport, IA 52804. Gilda’s Club Moline: 600 John Deere Road, Suite 101, Moline, IL 61265

Social Work Spotlight: Prioritizing Your Mental Well-Being

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PRIORITIZING YOUR MENTAL WELL-BEING

May is Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness and promote the importance of mental health and well-being. Mental health is integral to our overall wellness, deserving as much attention as our physical health. Unfortunately, many misconceptions about mental health prevent people from seeking the help they need.

The reality is that mental health issues are widespread. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness annually. These issues span from anxiety, panic attacks, and depression to more severe conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The good news is that many effective treatments and self-care modalities can alleviate symptoms, and with proper support, individuals can and do recover.

Seeking help can feel daunting, often due to fears, shame, or misunderstandings surrounding mental health. However, it is essential to remember that you are not alone. Many resources are available to support your mental health journey, including professional help, therapy, support groups, and trusted loved ones.

Your primary care provider can be a valuable starting point in your mental health journey. They can offer guidance on whether a referral to a mental health specialist is necessary and provide that referral if needed. Additionally, local community mental health centers offer walk-in options that provide direct access to mental health professionals.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) organizes both in-person and virtual sessions to provide support for individuals and families dealing with mental health challenges. There are also local support groups available to help foster a sense of community and connection, providing a safe and supportive space for sharing experiences and emotions. Additionally, mental health hotlines are available for individuals who require immediate assistance and support.

In addition to seeking professional help, taking care of oneself is crucial for promoting mental well-being. Sleeping, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and practicing stress-reducing techniques like meditation or deep breathing can contribute to overall wellness.

Here are some suggestions for activities that individuals and families can engage in to prioritize self-care:

Remember, it’s okay to set boundaries and prioritize your well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help. Reach out by calling or texting 988 for support.

Social Work Spotlight: Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

- Stephanie 1 Comment

SENIOR FARMER’S MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAM

This month, our resource spotlight shines on the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP), an initiative dedicated to enhancing senior health and wellness. SFMNP offers eligible seniors a $50 voucher to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey from participating farmer’s market vendors.

Administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship in partnership with the Iowa Division of Aging and Disability Services, this program ensures seniors have convenient access to nutritious produce, promoting their overall well-being. SFMNP plays a vital role in fostering community health and wellness by supporting local farmers and encouraging healthy eating habits among seniors.

Area Agencies on Aging facilitate the distribution of vouchers to eligible seniors, with Milestones Area Agency on Aging serving as the administering organization for the seventeen counties in their planning and service area, which includes Scott County. To apply for SFMNP benefits, seniors must meet specific age and income criteria and complete an application. Seniors who received vouchers last year will automatically receive an application by mail by mid-May. First-time applicants are encouraged to contact Milestones Area Agency at (563-324-9085) to request an application. Applications will be accepted exclusively through the mail, and Farmer’s Market vouchers will also be sent to recipients via mail. Please be aware that no business transactions will occur at any Milestones office, and there are no distribution centers.

To be eligible for this program, you must meet the following criteria:

  • You must be at least 60 years of age or older.
  • Your annual household income should not exceed 185% of the Federal poverty level. This means an individual’s yearly income should not exceed $27,861 or $2,321.74 monthly, or $37,814 or $3,151.71 monthly for a two-person household. You can find the income guidelines at https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/sfmnp-ieg-2024-25-memo.pdf
  • Seniors must reside within the service area of the Area Agency on Aging.

For more information about the Farmers Market Nutrition program, please visit https://www.milestonesaaa.org/nutrition-programs/farmersmarket/ or contact Milestones Area Agency on Aging at 563-324-9085. You can also find a list of eligible Farmers’ Markets by visiting Eligible Farmer’s Market Locations.

Social Work Spotlight: Amani Community Services

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Amani Community Services

In March, we are featuring Amani Community Services, with a focus on highlighting resources that address the cultural needs of our community following Black History Month.

Amani Community Services, operating throughout Iowa, specializes in domestic violence and sexual assault assistance, offering culture-specific services tailored to the African American community.

Culturally specific services refer to initiatives designed to meet the needs of underserved and unserved communities. These services are culturally focused, aligning with the cultural community’s values, behaviors, expectations, norms, and worldviews at every stage of service delivery.

Amani Community Services is committed to empowering African American youth, women, and men, fostering healthy black relationships, and combatting violence.

Amani Community Services has a team comprising mobile advocates and prevention specialists working closely with clients and the community. The mobile advocates meet clients at locations that are convenient and comfortable for them, such as libraries, coffee shops, stores, or schools, providing one-on-one support to victims of domestic violence. This personalized approach empowers individuals to transition from victims to survivors, offering the necessary support and resources. On the other hand, prevention specialists work within the community to educate youth and families about sexual violence, with the ultimate goal of preventing future incidents. Their mission revolves around proactively fostering awareness and educating the community to avoid future occurrences.

Their comprehensive services include:

  • Medical Advocacy
  • Legal Advocacy
  • Housing Advocacy
  • Individual Counseling
  • Teen and Children Programming
  • Support Groups

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, help is available. Please call 888-983-2533 for immediate support. You can also contact Amani Community Services at 563-564-5392 to learn more or schedule an appointment. For additional information and resources, please visit their website at www.amani-cs.org

Health Care Option for Older Adults

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Health Care Option for Older Adults

In January, our social work spotlight will focus on healthcare options for older adults. As the new year begins, there’s a strong push for self-care and increased health consciousness. Recognizing the challenges older individuals face in accessing healthcare due to mobility issues and other constraints, we are highlighting an essential addition to Davenport’s healthcare landscape: the Oak Street Health Primary Care Center at 2217 Rockingham Rd in Davenport.

Oak Street Health specializes in primary care for older adults on Medicare with Part B benefits and Disability. They offer personalized wellness plans, comprehensive health services, educational programs, and social activities. The primary objective of Oak Street Health is to enhance healthcare outcomes for older adults in the community while ensuring each patient feels warmly welcomed. Their dedicated team of primary care doctors and care team focuses exclusively on meeting the needs of seniors, employing a preventive primary care model tailored to their unique needs. Service delivery is versatile, including behavioral healthcare, support for social determinants, and easy accessibility through a blend of in-center, in-home, and telehealth appointments, along with a 24/7 patient support line. Additionally, for those unable to visit the Oak Street Health Center, they offer home visits.

Services provided include:

  • Same-day/next-day appointments and a 24/7 patient support line
  • Conveniently located in your neighborhood
  • Assistance in understanding your Medicare benefits
  • Hassle-free transfer of medical records and health history
  • Transportation within a 10-mile radius

For further information or to schedule an appointment, please call 563-726-0155 or visit their website at www.oakstreethealth.com.