May 2020 Meeting Highlights:

The Legislature unanimously voted to recognize June as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month – Usually associated with veterans returning from military combat and/ or any other high stress related disasters, PTSD affects approximately 8% of Americans. Educating and reducing the stigma associated with PTSD is essential to help those affected to seek the necessary support and treatment.

However during these challenging times of COVID-19, PTSD may affect any of us and taking care of ourselves is now more important than ever. Feeling overwhelmed, please reach out to the NYS Office of Mental Health:  https://omh.ny.gov/?ftag=MSF0951a18 Tel: 1-844-863-9314 or the Rensselaer County of Mental Health Office covered 24/7 at 518 270-2800.

 Health – The Health Department accepted a Federal grant for the Healthy Neighborhoods Program. This funding provides the Health Department with the means to identify high risk housing, and provide the resources to eliminate risks that can cause hazardous living environments – such as reducing tobacco use, home contaminants and lead hazards with the goal to reduce asthma induced hospitalizations, home injuries and other hazardous living environments.

Civil Service Commission – The Legislature unanimously confirmed Mr. Alson J. Spain, Jr. to the Rensselaer County Civil Service Commission Board for a term lasting through May 31, 2026. We wish him the best and offer our Congratulations!

NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, June 9, 2020 in the Rensselaer County Chambers located on the 3rd floor of the Ned Pattison Government Center, 1600 7th Avenue, Troy.

Residents are welcome to contact our office at 270-2890.

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