To all of our program participants and volunteers,
We are currently living in a very stressful world as we try to cope with the coronavirus and all of the consequences of the pandemic. I wanted to take a few moments to share with you our thoughts and response to the current health crisis. We have suspended all of our group meetings (all Nurturing Parenting Programs and Circle of Parents Support Groups) for the weeks of March 16 and March 23. Given recent developments, it appears that the health crisis is likely to go on so we may need to suspend any gatherings for a longer period of time.
We expect that everyone is taking appropriate precautions to protect their own health and the health of others. We at PCAVT are trying to keep up to date and are abiding by evolving guidance provided by the CDC and Vermont Department of Health to help "flatten the curve" and prevent a huge spike of cases all at once. Many of us may be feeling anxious, frustrated, and stressed during this time and in the coming weeks. Now is a very important time for all of us to support each other and demonstrate empathy and kindness to family, friends, and neighbors. To help promote and support this, we will be sharing a variety of resources over the coming weeks. We invite you to take a look at what we post and share with your loved ones. This can be quite stressful for even young children so please check out some tips to comfort and support children.
Despite the suspension of group meetings, our staff is continuing to work remotely. We are available to discuss parenting concerns and questions. You are welcome to contact the Family Support Coordinator in your region or call the Parent's Helpline at 1-800-CHILDREN (800-244-5373).
Let's all try to stay healthy and support each other!
Steven Ness, Family Support Programs Manager (802-498-0623) (sness@pcavt.org)
Heather Niquette, Family Support Programs Coordinator for Chittenden, Addison, Franklin & Grand Isle Counties (802-498-0607) (hniquette@pcavt.org)
Cindy Wells, Family Support Programs Coordinator for Caledonia, Lamoille, Orleans & Essex Counties (802-498-0611) (cwells@pcavt.org)
Cindy Atkins, Family Support Programs Coordinator for Rutland, Bennington & Windham Counties (802-498-0608) (catkins@pcavt.org)
Amber Menard, Family Support Programs Coordinator for Washington, Orange & Windsor Counties (802-552-4274) (amenard@pcavt.org)