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Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program Is Now Offering Service In Rockland County

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2 months ago

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The Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board (WPWDB)
has been directing the “Volunteer Income Tax Assistance” (VITA) Program since 2004. Over the past 21 years, hundreds of people have volunteered their time and expertise to help low- and moderate-income individuals and families file their taxes for free, including people with disabilities, senior citizens, and those for whom English is a second language. To ensure the program delivers maximum benefits, VITA relies on dedicated volunteers to act as greeters, assist with language translation and call-center operations. Tax preparation is done by IRS-certified volunteers via electronic filing.

This year marks the first time WPWDB is collaborating with Rockland County to support individuals who may benefit from the program across the river. Stephen Papas, President and CEO of United Way of Rockland; Katie Pfeifer, Senior Director of Programs for Volunteer New York!; Maria Vanessa Cipolla the Finkelstein Memorial Library Head of Marketing and Communications and Marie Sturm, Yolanda Durant, and Tiffany Stuart from the IRS were instrumental in brainstorming an effective pathway for this first-time, intercounty collaborative effort.

The VITA program is available at select locations throughout Westchester County, Rockland, and the Bronx through Tuesday, April 15. Residents can call 211 or 1-800-899-1479 to schedule an appointment at one of nine locations listed below. Tax prep help will take place in Rockland County at the Finkelstein Memorial Library. 

Where: Finkelstein Memorial Library
24 Chestnut Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977
Dates/Times: Saturday, March 1: 9am–1pm
Sunday, March 16: 1pm–5pm
Tuesday, March 25: 9am–5pm
                                                   By Appointment Only

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Government

Rockland County Offers Free Mosquito Dunks® and Mosquito-Eating Minnows to Residents

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2 days ago

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April 17, 2025

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Protect your home and community from mosquitoes this spring and summer!

The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) is offering free mosquito control products to residents, including Mosquito Dunks® and fathead minnows, to help reduce the mosquito population and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.

Mosquito Dunks® – Available by Appointment

What they are: Small, floating “donuts” that release safe bacteria to kill mosquito larvae in standing water.

Who can get them: Rockland County residents for use in unused swimming pools, spas, and other water-holding containers.

How to get them:

  • Pick-up location: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, 50 Sanatorium Road, Building D, Pomona, NY

  • By appointment only – Reserve in advance by calling 845-364-3173 or emailing [email protected]

  • Required: Download and complete the order form from the Mosquito Control Program webpage and bring it with you to your scheduled pickup.

🐟 Fathead Minnows – One-Day Giveaway Event

What they are: Small fish that eat mosquito larvae—up to 200 larvae per day!

Event Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, Building D, 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona, NY
Important: Minnows must be released only within Rockland County

How to reserve:

  • Register online via the Mosquito Control Program webpage, or

  • Call 845-364-3173
    Note: The event date and time are subject to change. Signs will be posted to guide attendees to the correct location.

For more information, visit the Rockland County Health Department Mosquito Control Program webpage.

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Government

988: Three Numbers That Can Change a Life

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4 days ago

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April 14, 2025

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The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is here for anyone feeling overwhelmed, sad, stressed, or in a mental health crisis. It’s free, private, and available 24/7.

What happens when you contact 988?

  • You’ll talk with a trained counselor who listens and cares.

  • They’ll help you feel supported and work through what you’re going through.

  • You can call, text, or chat—whatever feels best for you.

988 is for everyone.

  • You don’t have to be in a serious emergency.

  • You can reach out for yourself or if you’re worried about a friend or family member.

Sharing 988 can save lives.
Let’s help more people know that support is just three numbers away.
You’re not alone—and no one else has to be either.

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