Uncategorized

Rockland County Executive Ed Day – “Help is Here Through The New Year”

Published

3 years ago

January 2, 2023

As we round-out the holidays and welcome 2023, I recognize that this time of year can be
especially difficult for those suffering with mental health issues. I want to take a moment to
remind families that help is always available in our Department of Mental Health, including our
Children’s Community Assistance, Response, and Engagement Team or Children’s CARE
Team for short.

The CARE Team is mobile and consists of a behavioral health worker as well as a family peer
advocate who can meet a family at home, school, or elsewhere in the community. The team
will work closely with a youth and their family to stabilize the situation, assist with follow-up,
make appropriate referrals, and can stay involved with the family for up to eight weeks. Just
this year the CARE team assisted over 180 people.

They respond to help any individuals under the age of 21 experiencing non-life-threatening
behavioral and/or emotional challenges 7 days a week, including holidays, from noon to 8 p.m.
Best of all this service is FREE and funded through Rockland County’s Substance Abuse and
Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) grant with NO COST to local taxpayers.
You can call 845-517-0400 to connect with the CARE Team.

We remind families that in Rockland we also have the Behavioral Health Response Team
(BHRT), which provides mobile behavioral health services and crisis intervention 24/7, 365
days a year to individuals, families, and agencies in Rockland.

The team will respond to any mental health situation needing immediate intervention. This
program is also free of charge to residents thanks to a grant from the New York State Office of
Mental Health.

Anyone needing mental health outreach services is encouraged to call the BHRT at 845-517-
0400 or toll-free at 1-844-255-BHRT (2478).

Rockland has long been ahead of the curve at tending to our resident’s mental health, and we will continue to create programs that are free to use for our residents and offer a
comprehensive response.

There is no shame in utilizing these services and working with these dedicated professionals to
navigate any crisis you face. I urge those who are enduring challenges this year to reach out because this administration is here to help.

Uncategorized

Update: Rockland County YouthFest Returns March 29 at RCC

Published

4 weeks ago

March 28, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Rockland County will host its annual YouthFest on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rockland Community College.

The free, family-friendly event is one of the largest community gatherings in the county, bringing together more than 150 local agencies, organizations, and service providers focused on youth and family programs.

YouthFest offers a wide range of activities, including interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, performances, and hands-on experiences for children and teens. Families can also enjoy entertainment, games, and attractions throughout the day while learning about resources available across Rockland County.

The event is held in conjunction with Rockland County Government Day, giving residents an opportunity to connect with county departments and learn more about public services and programs.

Organized by the Rockland County Youth Bureau, YouthFest draws thousands of attendees each year and serves as a one-stop destination for families seeking information, support services, and recreational opportunities.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Uncategorized

Frozen Toilet During Extreme Cold? What Homeowners Should and Shouldn’t Do

Published

3 months ago

January 29, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

With freezing temperatures expected across Rockland County, Fire and Emergency Services is reminding residents to take steps to prevent frozen and burst pipes, which can cause significant property damage and even lead to fires.

Officials recommend allowing faucets to drip slightly, especially overnight, to keep water moving through pipes. Residents should also open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.

Fire and Emergency Services advises keeping homes heated to at least 55 degrees, even when away, and insulating exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Residents are warned never to use open flames or unsafe heating devices to thaw frozen pipes.

If a pipe does freeze, officials recommend using a hair dryer or warm air to thaw it safely. Torches or other open-flame methods should never be used. A frozen toilet is inconvenient, but rushing the fix can turn a minor problem into major damage. Slow, careful warming is the safest solution, and professional help should be sought if the issue persists.

In the event of a burst pipe or water emergency, residents are urged to shut off the water immediately and contact emergency services or a licensed professional if needed.

Officials remind residents to stay warm, stay safe, and take preventative steps to protect their homes during extreme cold weather.