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RCDOH Is Proud To Announce PrEP Awareness Week From October 21-27th

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The Rockland County Department of Health is proud to participate in PrEP Aware Week from October 21-27, 2024, dedicated to increasing public awareness about PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), who it’s for, and how to access it. This year’s theme, “PrEP for All Ages,” emphasizes the importance of taking control of your health at any stage of life.

PrEP is a prescription medication, available in pill or injectable form, that is taken before potential exposure to HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) to significantly reduce the risk of infection. It is designed for adults and adolescents who are HIV-negative and may be exposed to HIV through sexual activity or injection drug use. Additionally, PrEP can be a valuable tool for protecting pregnant individuals and their babies from HIV during conception, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. It is important to have an open and honest conversation about PrEP with your healthcare provider before beginning PrEP to see if it’s right for you.

PrEP is available at the Rockland County Department of Health Sexual Health Clinic. Clinic hours are by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please call (845) 364-3771 to schedule an appointment. Visit the New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute Provider Directory to see other locations where PrEP is available in Rockland County. Many local providers also offer PrEP, so ask your medical provider during your next visit.

When taken as prescribed, PrEP is 99% effective at preventing HIV. However, since PrEP only offers protection against HIV, using condoms remains crucial in preventing other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and offering additional HIV protection if PrEP is not taken consistently.

For those concerned about the cost, Medicaid and most health insurance plans cover PrEP without co-pays or cost-sharing. Additionally, drug manufacturers and the New York State Department of Health’s PrEP Assistance Program (PrEP-AP) offers financial support to ensure access to this life-saving medication.

For more information, visit the PrEP Aware website and the New York State Department of Health.   

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Secure Shred Event: Safely Dispose of Personal Documents Near You

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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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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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