Regional task force to support K-12 reopening
The Finger Lakes Reopening Schools Safely Task Force was formed in July 2020 and consists of 40-plus leaders from public health, health care, education, government, non-profits, as well as parent representatives. The task force works to ensure the physical and emotional health and safety of students and their families, educational staff and the community as schools in 13 Finger Lakes counties reopen in the midst of a pandemic. One of the goals is to help all students adjust to wearing masks on a daily basis. We encourage you to share our new infographic. Download it here and get tips and resources for families here.
USDA extends free meals for kids
Kudos to the USDA for extending free meals for kids through December 31, 2020. This extension allows for Foodlink, RCSD and the City of Rochester to continue to offer grab & go meals this fall and winter. While this is an important first step, it is critical that these flexibilities are extended to the end of the school year. Healthi Kids recently joined nearly 1,400 organizations in signing onto asking the USDA to extend free meal service through June 30, 2021. Stay tuned for future advocacy alerts. For information on locations, dates and times, visit www.summermealsroc.org.
R-Center Learning Labs available for kids
Does your child need help with their remote school assignments and instruction? Help is available at the City of Rochester's R-Centers, Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Breakfast, lunch and dinner will also be available at selected locations. For more information, contact your local R-Center!
What we're listening to:
WXXI Connections: How to address children's social, emotional, and educational needs during the pandemic. Representatives from our partner organizations, ROC the Future and The Children's Institute discuss how parents and teachers can help children navigate through a pandemic.
We're hiring
Do you believe that all kids have the right to play? Do you have a background in public health or community planning? We are hiring a PlayROCs Project Coordinator. Learn more.
Upcoming events
October 22 - December 3, 2020 - UR Medicine Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness is hosting a series of free online webinars to discuss topics related to child and teen mental health care. Panelists include UR Medicine psychologists, representatives from community organizations, and parent representatives. Learn more and register here.
In the news:
Rochester Beacon Regional task force helps guide school reopening plans
Rochester First $100K grant aims to advance health related equity in Rochester Related: WHEC-10 WXXI News Spectrum News Campus Times
Patch Rochester to continue to provide free meals for children
Spectrum News New, walk-up COVID-19 testing site open in Rochester Related: WHEC-10
Monroe County COVID-19 resources/requests
The Monroe County public health department and Common Ground Health launched an online survey to track COVID-19 symptoms in the Finger Lakes region. Survey results will help health officials pinpoint "hot spots". Learn more.
