Behavioral Health Services North announced Dec. 23 the launch of Together Totes, a new community initiative providing essential hygiene and seasonal care items to individuals and families in crisis in the North Country.
The program is supported through grant funding from The Foundation of CVPH. The collaboration hopes to bring much-needed support to our community when it is needed most, according to a press release from BHSN.
The program is expected to reach over 1,000 individuals annually, with at least 500 care packages distributed in its first operational year through local community partners and multiple BHSN-run community programs.
Three deliveries of the totes already took place Dec. 22, 23 and 24 to JCEO, the Interfaith Food Shelf in Plattsburgh and NAMI’s crisis center at MHAB.
Together Totes are filled with toiletries, basic hygiene products and winter essentials, such as hats and gloves. These items will be distributed to BHSN clients experiencing urgent needs, including those fleeing domestic violence, transitioning out of hospitalization or homelessness.
In addition to supporting BHSN programs, Together Totes will be shared with community partners, including JCEO, the Interfaith Food Pantry and other regional service providers, to strengthen collaboration and ensure equitable access to essential items across the community.
“The Foundation of CVPH’s support allows us to meet people at pivotal moments when a small act of care can make a major difference,” Kevin Cooney, marketing director at BHSN, said in the press release.
“Together Totes are about promoting dignity, stability, and wellness by making sure no one goes without the most basic essentials.”
Read on the Plattsburgh Press Republican
Coverage from WNBC5
Coverage from ABC22/FOX44
https://www.mychamplainvalley.com/video/plattsburgh-together-totes-help-people-get-by/11385207
Assembling and Delivering the Totes