What is your favorite part of summer? Travel? Sunshine? Sandy beaches? Ice Cream? Vacation? Whatever it is, make sure you take some time for self-care. Faith Leaders are called to be present physically and spiritually for others. While this vocation is purpose-driven and impactful, it can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and overworked. Take some time this month to focus on self-restoration and renewal. Practicing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for more effectively sustaining our ministries. By prioritizing our physical health, emotional resilience, and spiritual renewal, we not only fortify ourselves but also set a powerful example for our membership. Taking time for rest, reflection, and personal growth allows one to approach ministerial duties with renewed energy, empathy, and clarity. Remember, by nurturing ourselves, we gain strength to better serve those entrusted to our care. You are valued, and your holistic well-being is key to fulfilling your calling with authenticity and strength.
FREE SUMMER MEALS FOR YOUTH AND CHILDREN
Even when school is out, youth and children can still enjoy free breakfast and lunch! The NYC Department of Education’s 2024 Free Summer Meals Program is here for across New York City, and it’s totally free for anyone who’s 18 years old or younger. You can find these meals at specific places like select NYC Public Schools, community pool centers, parks, and libraries. And guess what? You don’t need to sign up, show any papers, or have an ID to get these meals. Just head to one of our spots and enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch. Have a great summer filled with good food and fun!
Service Information
- All dates, times, locations and menus are subject to change.
- Thursday, June 27, 2024 – Friday, August 30, 2024
- There is no service Thursday, July 4, 2024 (4th of July)
- There is service Friday, July 5, 2024 (Day after 4th of July)
- Breakfast Service Time: 8am – 9:15am
- Lunch Service Time: 11am – 1:15pm
- Text: NYCFood to 304-304 (standard text messaging rates may apply)
- Call 311
- Find A Free Breakfast & Lunch Location Near You
HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (HEAP) COOLING ASSISTANCE BENEFIT
The HEAP Cooling Assistance benefit helps eligible households buy and install an air conditioner or fan. Cooling Assistance benefits are provided on a first-come first served basis to eligible applicant. The benefit is worth up to $800 for a window, portable air conditioner, or fan; or up to $1,000 for an existing wall sleeve unit. To learn more about the benefit or to apply, click here.
SUMMER AT THE LIBRARY IN NYC
Join NYC libraries this summer for free programs and events for all ages. Explore book lists, activities, language classes, teen centers, and even career services for adults at your local library. You can also use your library card to get free passes to 90+ museums and attractions across the city. For more information on library resources click here.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Join us on Wednesday, July 17th to explore the art of self-care with our upcoming seminar tailored for faith leaders. This unique event offers insightful tools to cultivate personal well-being while navigating diverse spiritual responsibilities. Join us to foster resilience, deepen connections across faith traditions, and sustain your impactful leadership with renewed energy and mindfulness. Secure your spot today and invest in your holistic health as you continue to serve and inspire your community. Register here to attend.
NYC Mayor’s Office of Faith-Based and Community Partnerships Upcoming Events
Wednesday, July 24th, 10 AM -12 PM
NYC Mayor’s Faith Office Multifaith Tour (BROOKLYN)
LOCATION: 91 Walworth Street, Brooklyn, NY 11205
Monday, August 12th, 6 PM
An Evening of Faith with Mayor Adams (BRONX)
LOCATION: NEW LIFE BRONX, 2757 Morris Ave, Bronx, NY 10468
For more information about these events, please reach out to Rev. Gil Monrose at GMonrose@cityhall.nyc.gov or Fayth Henderson at FHenderson@cityhall.nyc.gov
MONTHLY HEALTH AWARENESS
It’s finally summer! With the close of the school year and the guarantee of warm weather, we have secured our travel plans or are in the process of securing them. As such, we need it is imperative that we deploy every possible measure to secure our efforts. Please be reminded that global travel includes the risk of communicable diseases rarely transmitted in the United States. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that all routine immunizations are up to day. American’s or those residing in America, planning to travel abroad should consult their doctors at least six weeks before traveling if they are unsure about whether they are up to date on their vaccines, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now says, in order to avoid catching a highly contagious virus during their trip. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist that takes place at least one month before you leave. They can help you get destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and information. Discussing your health concerns, itinerary, and planned activities with your provider allows them to give more specific advice and recommendations. Check CDC’s Travel Health for your destination to see what vaccines or medicines you may need and what diseases or health risks are a concern at your destination.
BIPOC Mental Health Month originated as “National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month,” BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Mental Health Month was created to bring awareness to the unique mental health challenges of historically disenfranchised and oppressed racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) experience mental illness at similar rates as white people, but they’re less likely to get treatment due to cultural barriers, stigma, and lack of access to care. These disparities can have a serious impact on BIPOC mental health. According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA), BIPOC often experience increased levels of mental health struggles due to the compounding impacts of racial trauma, socioeconomic gaps, and a lack of representation and access to care within the mental health industry.
Vision loss can have a major impact on every part of life. Having a visual impairment can create challenges in performing everyday tasks, and the stigma around losing vision can be isolating — causing feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, or grief. According to the CDC, more than 3.4 million Americans aged 40 years and older are blind or visually impaired. Other estimates of vision problems go as high as 21 million people. Additionally, about 80 million Americans have diseases that can cause blindness. Research shows that early detection and treatment can prevent blindness and vision impairment. Screening and treatment for common eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma are available. Help yourself and others live their healthiest lives.
For an appointment for Vision Care or all other health issues NYC Health + Hospitals is here to help:
Call for an appointment 1-844-NYC-4NYC
Talk to a Doctor Now Make an Appointment Online
In Faith & Partnership,
Rev. Dr. Ann Marie Bentsi-Addison
Senior Director, Faith Based Initiatives Team
NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS
For the latest feature stories, pictures, videos, and more, visit the NYC Health + Hospitals website:
www.nychealthandhospitals.org
