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National Grief Awareness Day on August 30: Rockland County Offers Mental Health Support

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8 months ago

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In observance of National Grief Awareness Day on August 30, the Rockland Behavioral Health Response Team (BHRT) is encouraging residents to acknowledge the many forms of grief and to seek support when needed.

Grief, often associated with the loss of a loved one, can also arise from separation, illness, job loss, or major life changes. Experts note that grief is a deeply personal experience and doesn’t follow a set timeline. Many individuals may cycle through various emotions—including denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—as described in the widely recognized Kübler-Ross model.

“Grief doesn’t always come with visible signs or outward expressions,” said Tim Egan, Executive Director of Rockland Paramedic Services, which operates BHRT. “It can hide behind daily routines. Our team is here to offer support to anyone struggling in silence.”

To help those coping with grief, BHRT provides free, 24/7 crisis response services, including on-site emotional support and connections to ongoing counseling, peer support, and community resources.

BHRT Services Include:

  • Free, on-site mental health crisis response

  • Non-judgmental emotional support and listening

  • Referrals to counseling, peer services, and local resources

  • Services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Anyone in need of help can contact the BHRT Crisis Hotline at (845) 517‑0400.

Community Engagement on August 30

In honor of National Grief Awareness Day, BHRT is also encouraging the public to participate in two community initiatives:

  • Spotlight on Stories – Residents are invited to share anonymous messages of remembrance or reflections on grief via direct message on BHRT’s Facebook page or by email at info@rocklandhelp.org.

  • Grief Check-In Prompt – Individuals are encouraged to reach out to someone with a simple message: “I’m thinking of you today.”

“Whether someone is navigating recent loss or unresolved grief from the past, support is available,” said Egan. “No one should have to go through it alone.”

About BHRT

The Rockland Behavioral Health Response Team (BHRT) is a county initiative providing mobile, community-based mental health crisis intervention. Staffed by trained clinicians and peer specialists, the team operates outside of traditional emergency services to offer compassionate, confidential care at no cost.

More information is available at www.rocklandhelp.org.

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Government

Secure Shred Event: Safely Dispose of Personal Documents Near You

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7 days ago

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April 11, 2026

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Residents are invited to safely dispose of sensitive documents at an upcoming Community Paper Shredding Event, designed to help protect against identity theft while promoting environmentally responsible recycling.

The event will provide a convenient and secure way for community members to shred personal documents such as old bank statements, tax records, medical paperwork, and other confidential materials. All documents will be shredded on-site by a professional shredding service, ensuring that personal information is fully destroyed.

In addition to helping residents safeguard their private information, the event supports sustainability efforts by ensuring that shredded paper is properly recycled.

Residents are encouraged to bring documents in boxes or bags. Please note that paper clips and staples are acceptable; however, large binder clips, folders, and non-paper materials should be removed in advance.

To allow as many residents as possible to participate, there may be a limit on the number of boxes per household.

This event is open to the general public, and no businesses will be permitted. See flyer for dates in your town.

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Government

Clarkstown Honors 2026 Women of Distinction for Leadership and Community Service

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3 weeks ago

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March 28, 2026

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The Town of Clarkstown proudly celebrated its second annual Women of Distinction Ceremony for 2026, honoring local women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to the community.

Supervisor George Hoehmann selected two honorees, while each Town Council member recognized one woman from their ward. The honorees were recognized for their contributions to volunteerism, public service, and nonprofit work across Clarkstown and Rockland County.

“This year’s honorees embody the very best of our community,” said Supervisor Hoehmann. “Their compassion, leadership, and commitment to service continue to inspire us all.”

2026 Honorees

Breda Lyons and Catherine Levins (Supervisor’s Honorees)
Owners of River Court On Main in New City, Lyons and Levins have combined entrepreneurship with philanthropy, supporting numerous local charities, organizing drives for children in need, and giving back to community organizations.

Roberta Bangs (Ward 3 – Councilman Don Franchino)
A dedicated volunteer, Bangs has served as President of Hi-Tor Animal Shelter and the Nanuet Civic Association, while supporting organizations such as People to People and the Nanuet Ambulance Corps.

Jane Provenzano (Ward 2 – Councilman Mike Graziano)
A longtime advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities, Provenzano founded PRO U ED, a program for adults with special needs, and serves as Vice President of the Congers Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.

Roxanne Perrone (Ward 4 – Councilman Bob Axelrod)
Perrone has played a key role in supporting New City’s small business community and serves as a trustee of the New City Library and member of the Clarkstown Planning Board.

Maura Donoghue (Ward 1 – Councilman Jon Valentino)
Donoghue oversees housing programs for the Rockland County Department of Social Services, managing initiatives that support vulnerable residents, including Section 8 housing and emergency services.

The Town of Clarkstown extended its congratulations and gratitude to all of the honorees for their lasting impact on the community.

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