NCPH Reports First Confirmed Case of COVID-19

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Nevada County Public Health Reports First Confirmed Case of COVID-19

Wash Hands_NewsFlash

Highlights:

  • Nevada County is announcing its first laboratory confirmed case of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.
  • The person is an adult, resides in Eastern County, and has been isolated at home.
  • There are ways to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.
  • Testing is available though limited, and those with severe illness or vulnerabilities will be prioritized at this time

Nevada County Public Health Reports First Confirmed Case of COVID-19

The person recently traveled outside the country, and at this time it appears the disease was acquired during international travel, but we are still in the earliest stages of investigation. The person’s close household contacts are under quarantine and have no symptoms at this time. The person was not out in the community while ill.

“Our team has been planning to see COVID-19 in Nevada County and we have been working with local partners such as local health providers, schools, and business community to prepare,” said Nevada County Public Health Officer Dr. Ken Cutler. “We have seen how the virus has been transmitted through the community in other states and in parts of California, and we recommend the public prepare for community transmission in Nevada County, unrelated to this case, as well.”

“We are working around the clock to make sure residents have the best information possible and are informed to help slow the spread of this disease. There are actions community members can take to help protect themselves, their families and coworkers. By taking simple, but effective steps together we can slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Dr. Cutler.

How To Protect Yourself and Others

  • Self-isolate if you are 65 years of age older OR if you have a compromised immune system or a serious underlying medical condition. This effort will help protect those most vulnerable to serious illness caused by this disease.
  • Wash hands with soap and water.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay away from work, school or other people if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough.
  • Follow guidance from public health officials. Find local coronavirus information at www.mynevadacounty.com/coronavirus.

In addition, Nevada County Public Health states that with increased community transmission across the state and increasing numbers of cases in nearby counties, we should assume that there are likely undetected cases and act as though there is community transmission occurring in Nevada County, so everyone should be aware and practice the recommended steps to keep themselves healthy, including social distancing. Public Health is working with partners in health care, education, business, law enforcement and others to prevent and slow the spread of this illness, and every community member will need to do their part as well if we want to preserve the public health and safety of our county’s residents.

COVID-19 Testing

While the novel coronavirus and COVID-19 is in the headlines and is a genuine public health threat, the community should know that there is still quite a bit of flu activity and other health emergencies continue to happen on a regular basis. People have other serious respiratory illnesses, heart attacks, broken bones, etc., and while our small, rural community has an excellent local health system, it can easily be saturated and overwhelmed if people try to access unnecessary care. Public Health is in regular contact with our hospitals and other health care partners, and we are working collectively to inform concerned community members about how to care for themselves while remaining sensitive to the capacity of our local health care systems.

One of the most common questions being asked of us all is, “Can I be tested for coronavirus?” Here is what we want everyone to know:

  • The demand for COVID-19 testing continues to exceed capacity, though expanded testing remains a high priority.
  • In general, testing for the COVID-19 virus is not helpful if you do not have symptoms.
  • Most people will get better with rest and self-care, so there is no need to see a doctor if you have mild symptoms. If you have symptoms similar to a cold and you feel like you can manage them with over-the-counter medications from the comfort of your home, that is what you should do, regardless of whether or not it could be COVID-19. Also, please stay home to limit exposure to others.
  • If you are sick, your health care provider may decide to do a test for coronavirus. At this time only health care providers can order tests for COVID-19. Again, since most people will get better with rest and time, there is no need to see a doctor if you have mild symptoms. If you are sick and think you should be tested for COVID-19, call your doctor before going in for care. If you don’t have a provider, call 2-1-1 (or 833-342-5211) for help finding a clinician near you.
  • Certain patients such as the elderly, those that are immune compromised or have underlying medical conditions should contact their doctor earlier if they have symptoms. Again, they should contact their clinic or provider before going in.
  • Please do not call 911 to request testing for COVID-19 and please do not go to emergency rooms unless you are seriously ill and require emergency care.

Protecting our local health care system will require prudence and commitment from us all. Please help us ensure that care is available for those most in need of it.

Free Drive-Thru Flu Shots

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The Nevada County Public Health Department wants to help you Fight the Flu. Get your free flu shot on October 21st from 12:00-4:00 pm without ever leaving your car. Flu shots will be available for adults and children 3 years and older.

The free drive-thru clinic will be held in the parking lot of Twin Cities Church, at 11726 Rough & Ready Highway in Grass Valley. Enter the lot via the westbound entrance only. This is a drive-thru event only; no walk-ups, please.

Please wear clothing that allows for easy access to your upper arm.

For more information, call 530-265-7265.

Details

What: Free Drive-Thru Flu Shots

When: October 21st from 12:00-4:00 pm

Where: Twin Cities Church, at 11726 Rough & Ready Highway in Grass Valley

Cost: Free!

 

Census 2020: Gearing Up for a Complete Count

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Be Counted California!Every decade since 1790, the United States has attempted to count the country’s population. This nation-wide head-count plays an extraordinarily important role in shaping our communities for years to come.

Why the Census Matters

The next Census will take place in April 2020. There is a lot on the line, including funding for essential safety net programs and representation in Congress. Census data is used to:

  • Draw Congressional districts (not to mention school districts!)
  • Distribute billions of federal dollars to states
  • Inform the decisions of government, businesses, and non-profits

An undercount could cost California more than $1.5 billion across all Federal programs. These are dollars that fund housing, education, healthcare, roads, and emergency services in Nevada County.

The Challenge

It is vital to the future of our community to ensure that every person in Nevada County is counted. Connecting Point and the County of Nevada are collaborating to “get out the count,” with the goal of achieving a complete count for Census 2020. That means counting every person living in Nevada County. There are significant barriers to meeting this goal:

  • The 2020 Census will be the first to rely heavily on online responses. Internet access is limited in many areas of our county.
  • S. Census Bureau outreach will not go to P.O. Boxes. Many residents may not receive information about the Census.
  • There is widespread mistrust of the government and potential for misinformation about the Census in our community. People may choose not to participate, even though Census data is protected.

The State of California estimates that there are 48,370 “hard-to-count” individuals living in Nevada County (learn more about the Hard-to-Count Index here).

What’s Next

Connecting Point is currently reaching out to community organizations, faith-based groups, local agencies, businesses and others who work closely with demographic populations considered least likely to respond. These include:

  • Latinos
  • Immigrants and Refugees
  • Farm-workers
  • People with disabilities
  • Seniors
  • Children ages 0-5
  • Veterans
  • People with low/no broadband access
  • Households with limited English proficiency

Achieving a complete count requires us to work together to find the best ways to reach our hard-to-count neighbors. If you serve any of the above “hard-to-count” populations, we want to hear from you. Please contact Heather Heckler by email or by phone at 530-274-5601 to let us know if you’d like to be involved.

The Census begins April 1st. LET’S MAKE NEVADA COUNTY COUNT!

Learn more about the 2020 Census and Nevada County’s Complete Count.

Volunteer Opportunity Spotlight, September 9th – 15th

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Connecting Point’s new Volunteer Hub is growing quickly! Having launched just over a month ago, we already have 44 organizations in our database and over 80 posted volunteer opportunities, with more being added every day. The Volunteer Hub is a free service to connect Nevada County residents of all ages to volunteer opportunities in our community. Each week we will feature a selection of upcoming opportunities at local organizations.

Nothing connects you to the community quite like volunteering your time to a great cause and this week’s handpicked featured opportunities are just a sampling of what the Volunteer Hub has to offer. For more information on any of the following opportunities, please visit ConnectingPoint.org or call 211.

Connect to your cause:

  • Dog Handling at Scooter’s Pals Adopt-A-Thon, Saturday September 28th – Scooter’s Pals
    Come help find homes for pups in need. Scooter’s Pals provides foster and forever homes for abused or abandoned dogs scheduled to be killed in local and nearby shelters. They also assist local dog owners who are no longer able to properly care for their dogs in finding a new “best fit” home so they do not reach a shelter. Come and sit with adoptable canine fur babies, meet other volunteers, take a dog for a walk and see what the adoption process is like. The Adopt-a-Thon is held on the 4th Saturday of every month from 11 am to 2 pm at Petco on Freeman Lane in Grass Valley.
  • Fix-It Program, Skilled Carpenters, Plumbers & Handypersons – FREED
    Donate your valuable skills. FREED’s mission is to promote independence and self-determination for people with disabilities through person-driven services, collaborative community partnerships and education, and leadership that advocates for fully inclusive communities. FREED’s Fix-It Program is volunteer-driven and focuses on addressing the health and safety needs of Nevada and Sierra County residents so they may remain independently in their own home. As a Fix-It volunteer you will be serving seniors and people with disabilities addressing minor home repairs or modifications that fit your skill set. You will be offered the opportunity to work on a variety of services such as installing grab bars, railing, or transfer poles, repairing steps, placing portable ramps, building new ramps, and making minor plumbing repairs. FREED is recruiting people with appropriate skills willing to contribute a minimum of three hours per month, and possibly larger amounts of time (less frequently) to co-work on more involved projects or to fulfill an urgent request.
  • HPC Board of Directors – St. Joseph’s Cultural Center
    Be a part of history! St. Joseph’s Cultural Center is a California Historical Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1865 and maintained by the Sisters of Mercy as both an orphanage and a school, it sustained itself until the 1960’s when it was sold to the Historic Mount St. Mary’s Preservation Committee (HPC).  The complex consists of the main three-story building, the hall (St. Joseph’s Chapel, built in 1894) and the historic 150-year-old rose garden. The HPC needs to boost their Board of Directors membership and are looking for folks interested in preserving this historic Gold-Rush gem and helping keep her a viable part of Grass Valley’s future. Board meetings are every second Tuesday of the month from 7:00pm to 9:00pm.
  • Space Steward – The Curious Forge
    Help nurture the creative spirit! The Curious Forge makerspacewas created to allow people of all backgrounds, ages, and skill levels to create the things that matter to them. They have all the equipment, mentors, space and time to enable you to succeed at your pace, your style, your passion. They have classes, one-on-one, peer to peer, and volunteers to help you learn and grow as an artist, techie, tinkerer or entrepreneur. The Space Steward serves as a resource for members, watches the front desk, answers the phone, greets visitors, gives tours, helps keep the space tidy, is occasionally available to support workshops or other events, and supports The Forge in general by following procedures and being a model member. A time commitment of 4-6 hours a week is required.
  • Various Positions – Wildlife Rehabilitation & Release
    Do you love animals? Wildlife Rehabilitation & Release is dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of injured and orphaned wildlife. Each year our team successfully releases over 100 different species of native wildlife, including mammals, songbirds, raptors, waterfowl, reptiles and amphibians. In addition to experienced rehabbers working directly with the animals, volunteers work tirelessly helping to raise funds, write and share news stories, transport animals, and organize special events.  They are also looking for volunteers to become part of their education team.

To find these and many more opportunities, please call 211 or 1-833-DIAL-211 or visit us at ConnectingPoint.org.

Volunteer Opportunity Spotlight, August 26th-September 1st

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Connecting Point is excited to announce the launch of Nevada County’s new Volunteer Hub. The Volunteer Hub is a free service to connect Nevada County residents of all ages to volunteer opportunities in our community. Each week we will feature a selection of upcoming opportunities at local organizations.

This week we’re highlighting a wide variety of organizations that are committed to making Nevada County a better place. Whether it’s helping conserve our natural resources, protecting the most vulnerable in our community, or supporting local arts and culture, there’s something for everyone! For more information on any of the following positions, please visit ConnectingPoint.org or call 211.

 

Intake and Referral Specialist – Welcome Home Vets

Help those who have served our country find the support they need. Welcome Home Vets contracts with local psychotherapists who are experienced in military culture and in treating combat-related trauma to provide individual, group, couples, and family therapy to veterans and their families at no cost. The intake and referral specialist will meet the immediate needs of veterans and their families by providing referrals, online registration help, hand-offs to agencies, and more.

 

Tutors, Music Teachers, and More – PARTNERS Family Resource Center

School is back is session and there are students who need your help. PARTNERS Family Resource Centers engage and partner with families, educators, and the community to better support children’s development, create connections, and increase access to local resources. Serve the children and families in our community by becoming a tutor, music teacher, ESL teacher, or help at an event.

 

Court Appointed Special Advocate – Child Advocates of Nevada County

Play an important, positive role in the life of a child. The goal of Child Advocates of Nevada County is to decrease the maltreatment of children in our community. Court Appointed Special Advocates are trained community volunteers appointed by Juvenile Court judges to speak for the best interests of children who are brought before the court for reasons of abuse or neglect. After an initial training, each CASA is supervised and supported by CASA staff and is provided with resources and guidance to aid in effective advocacy.

 

General Volunteer – Grass Valley Police Department

Promote peace and safety in the community. The Grass Valley Police Department is actively seeking citizen volunteers interested in joining the GVPD Volunteer Program. Accepted applicants will be issued a GVPD Volunteer uniform and badge. Duties include assisting the Records Department and working the front lobby window, assisting with patrolling the downtown parking lots with the authority to issue courtesy warnings, conducting residential vacation house checks to prevent burglaries and break-ins, and much more.

 

Trail Ambassador – Bear Yuba Land Trust

Are you an experienced hiker? Bear Yuba Land Trust is a private, non-profit, membership-supported organization that works to promote voluntary conservation of the region’s natural, historical and agricultural legacy. Trail Ambassadors commit to a season of outreach on one local trail to gather recreational use data and promote BYLT. This volunteer opportunity is excellent for those who have a passion for hiking and getting out onto the land and want to promote a local trail.

 

Various Positions – InConcert Sierra

Help bring extraordinary classical music to our community. Join our amazing team of InConcert Sierra volunteers for our 2019-20 Third Sunday Concert Season! InConcert Sierra presents exceptional classical and choral performances that inspire and enhance the cultural life in Nevada County. Volunteers participate in every component of concert production, from managing ticket sales to assistant stage managing.

 

To learn more about these and many more volunteer opportunities, call 211 or 1-833-DIAL211 or visit us at ConnectingPoint.org. Connecting Point is a public agency dedicated to supporting the health and independence of the people in our community.

Suicide Prevention Week Starts September 8th

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Suicide Prevention Week is September 8th-14th, 2019

During this week individuals and organizations around the country join their voices to broadcast the message that suicide can be prevented, and to reach as many people as possible with the tools and resources to support themselves and those around them. The theme of Suicide Prevention Week is Finding Purpose: Caring for Ourselves and Others. It truly takes whole communities joining together to make a difference – from individuals and families to workplaces, government agencies, and community organizations.

Is Suicide Preventable?

In the last couple of years several well-known figures in the food and entertainment industries, died by suicide, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that suicide rates rose in nearly every state in the U.S. Many of us have been personally impacted by the death of someone we know or someone we love. The problem can sometimes seem insurmountable.

You may have heard people asking, or asked yourself: “Is suicide preventable?”

The causes of suicide are complex, and so are the solutions. Asking “why” when we lose someone is natural, but suicide can’t be attributed to a single cause. Preventing suicide requires sustained, broad-based efforts involving many sectors of the community and reaching into people’s relationships with friends and family. Working together, we can develop a comprehensive safety net for ourselves, friends and loved ones that includes prevention, early intervention, and support for those who are struggling, have attempted, or have lost someone to suicide.

There are Reasons for Hope!

The next time you hear someone ask “Is suicide preventable”, or you ask this question yourself, the answer lies partly in recognizing how much we do know about preventing suicide.

Did you know that:

  • Effective suicide prevention strategies exist that can reduce suicidal thinking and behavior? Some programs take place within clinical settings, and others are based in the community, but evaluation studies and research have shown that they can help. Find out more about these programs by checking out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Technical Package
  • National initiatives are underway that are enhancing suicide prevention in health care settings (e.g. sprc.org) and within industries (e.g. Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention, www.cfma.org) and workplaces.
  • National and local efforts are helping us to change the conversation about suicide to one of hope and help and to encourage effective messaging around suicide prevention. And as a result, more often we see compassionate portrayals and responses in media and in the entertainment industry after a suicide death.
  • The Know the Signs campaign is helping Californians to Know the Signs, Find the Words, and Reach Out to help someone they are concerned about. Check out the web site in English or Spanish

What is Your Role in Suicide Prevention?

While not every suicide can be prevented, by joining together throughout communities, we can reduce risk. Everyone has a role to play and a contribution to make.

Local Resources

The Nevada County Public Health Department is hosting a safeTALK training in Nevada City on September 10th from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. safeTALK is LivingWorks’ most popular training. Participants will learn how to prevent suicide by:

  • Recognizing the signs of suicide
  • Engaging someone with thoughts of suicide
  • Connecting them to an intervention resource for further support

For more details and to register, fill out the Registration form.

Details

What: LivingWorks safeTALK Suicide Prevention Training

When: Tuesday, September 10, 8:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: Empire Room at the Rood Center (2nd Floor), 950 Maidu Ave. Nevada City, CA 95945

Cost: Free. Registration is required (limited spots available, sign up today).

For questions or more information, contact Toby Guevin, Suicide Prevention Coordinator at toby.guevin@co.nevada.ca.us or 530-265-7018.

 

The Know the Signs campaign is one of several statewide initiatives funded by counties through the voter-approved Mental Health Services Act (Prop 63).  These efforts are administered by the California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA) and are part of Each Mind Matters:  California’s Mental Health Movement.

Survey on Mental Health Services

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Nevada County Behavioral Health wants your input on the future of mental health services in our community. The Community Needs Assessment Survey gives the public an opportunity to weigh in on funding priorities for programs to serve both youth and adults.

This survey is part of the planning process for the next Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) Three-Year Plan, starting in July 2020. 

The Mental Health Services Act (MHSA), also known as Prop 63, was passed by California voters in November 2004. MHSA is funded by a 1% tax for those earning over $1 million per year, and is designed to expand and transform California’s county mental health systems.

This survey has 22 questions and will take approximately 15 minutes to complete. The survey has four sections: (1) prevention and early intervention services; (2) treatment and recovery services; (3) access to services; and (4) personal demographic information. All answers are optional, and your responses will be anonymous and confidential
 
The survey will close on Monday, August 26.
 

Volunteer Opportunity Spotlight, August 19th – 25th

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Connecting Point is excited to announce the launch of Nevada County’s new Volunteer Hub.

The Volunteer Hub is a free service to connect Nevada County residents of all ages to volunteer opportunities in our community. Each week we will feature a selection of upcoming opportunities at local organizations.

August is National Wellness Month, so this week we’re highlighting organizations dedicated to the well-being of our community. For more information on any of the following positions, please visit ConnectingPoint.org or call 211.

VOLUNTEER DELIVERY DRIVER – Gold Country Community Services

Show our senior community that you care! Gold Country Community Services, Inc. provides essential programs that meet the basic needs of seniors living in western Nevada County. GCCS is looking for delivery drivers for its Meals on Wheels program. Under general supervision and guidance from the Nutrition Manager, the Meals on Wheels Volunteer Driver will deliver meals to homebound participants. Volunteers can participate in delivering to the same route each week and/or be on-call as substitute drivers as needed.

VOLUNTEER RESPITE CARE SPECIALIST – One Source–Empowering Caregivers

Help provide support to caregivers. The Mission of One Source–Empowering Caregivers is to improve quality of life for Caregivers and their loved ones by providing cost-free, non-medical support while they remain at home in a safe and healthy environment. One Source will hold training for Volunteer Respite Care Specialists on Saturday, Sept. 7, 14 and 21. A trained Volunteer Respite Care Specialist sets up an appointment to serve two to four hours per week in the home of a caregiver to provide respite for the caregiver and companionship to the person they care for.

SUPPER CREW MEMBER – The Friendship Club

Want to show off your kitchen skills? The Friendship Club provides a comprehensive, year-round, long-term program aimed at helping empower and educate youth who face challenges of poverty, abuse and trauma. As a supper crew member, you will work under the direction of the meal program coordinator as part of their after school program, to complete tasks necessary for meal preparation, buffet-style meal service, and clean up. On-site training is provided.

CAT ROOM ATTENDANT – AnimalSave

Attention cat lovers! AnimalSave transforms the lives of cats and dogs by providing humane education, affordable spay and neuter services, and finding them loving homes. The cat room attendant cleans, feeds and cares for cats and kittens surrendered to AnimalSave while they are housed in the cat adoption room. This is a critical volunteer position that ensures the health and wellbeing of animals while they wait for adoption.

FOOD LOVE FARM HELPER – Sierra Harvest

Do you have a green thumb? Sierra Harvest’s mission is to educate, inspire and connect Nevada County families to fresh, local, seasonal food. Come help at the Food Love Farm, where more than 2,000 students learn where their food comes from and get first-hand experience working on a farm. Dig beds, plant, harvest, weed and learn about organic crop production alongside the fun Sierra Harvest staff.

VARIOUS POSITIONS – Granite Wellness Center (formerly CoRR)

Help those who are struggling. Granite Wellness Center’s mission is to support the communities they serve with a full spectrum of wellness-focused programs to reduce the social, health and economic impact on families and children from all types of substance abuse and behavioral health issues. Ongoing volunteer opportunities are available.

To learn more about these and many more volunteer opportunities, call 211 or 1-833-DIAL211 or visit us at ConnectingPoint.org.

Free Food & Fun at Family Appreciation Day

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Join Sierra Nevada Children’s Services for a magical day of free family fun this Saturday, August 3rd from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. The 5th annual Family Appreciation Day will include arts and crafts, a magic show, and all kinds of games and activities for kids. Eat a free lunch under the pines (followed by a Sno-cone or two), dance to the ukulele music of the Strum Bums, and connect with community organizations.

All families are welcome.

Details

What: SNCS Family Appreciation Day

When: Saturday, August 3rd, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Where: 420 Sierra College Drive, Grass Valley

Cost: Free!

It’s Market Money Time

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Double Your CalFresh Dollars

The CalFresh Market Money program is back for another season of fresh fruits and veggies straight from your local farmers.

CalFresh participants who spend 10 EBT dollars on market tokens can get 10 more tokens free at all participating markets, all season long.

Participating Markets

THE MARKET AT GRASS VALLEY
Pine Creek Shopping Center (Raley’s), 650 Freeman Lane
Tuesdays, June 4th through September 24th
8:00 am to 12;00 pm

THE MARKET AT GRASS VALLEY
Corner of South Auburn & Neal Street, Grass Valley
June 6th through September 26th
4:00 pm to 7:00 pm

NEVADA CITY FARMERS’ MARKET
Union Street, Nevada City
June 1st through November 23rd
8:30 am to 1:00 pm

How It Works

If you are already a CalFresh participant, getting your market match is simple. Just follow these three easy steps:

  1. Come out to the Connecting Point booth at any of the participating farmers’ markets.
  2. Show us your EBT card and photo ID. We’ll match your EBT tokens up to $10.
  3. Use your market tokens to buy fruits and veggies from participating farm stands.

If you are interested in applying for CalFresh benefits, you can learn more at Nevada County’s CalFresh website or begin your online application at C4Yourself.

Get on the Bus with Summer Youth Pass

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Image of two young women smiling at the camera. Text includes information about the Summer Youth Bus Pass.School is wrapping up for the year and summer activities are kicking into high gear. But how are your kids getting to all these great events? How about the bus!

Give your kids the gift of independence with a Gold Country Stage Summer Youth Pass.

For just $25, kids ages 6-17 can get unlimited rides all summer long, from June 1 through August 31. The pass is good for all Gold Country Stage routes, including Route 5 to Auburn, Route 6 to Penn Valley–Lake Wildwood, and the new Lucky Route 7, serving the South Yuba River and North San Juan (beginning July 8th).

Purchase your Summer Youth Pass at the Gold Country Stage office at 13081 John Bauer Avenue in Grass Valley, Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm. Proof of age is required.

Check out the Rider’s Guide at the Gold Country Stage website for bus routes and schedules. Call 211 for help planning your trip.

Want to learn to ride the bus like a pro? Join Connecting Point’s upcoming Bus Basics class or get in touch with our Travel Trainer to schedule your one-on-one or group training.

Free Summer Lunches for Kids

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Silhouette of a tree against a blue background. A picnic table is underneath. The text reads "Kids Summer Lunch program."Local kids may be out of school, but they’re not out on their own this summer. Community groups are coming together to ensure children have access to food and fun activities while they’re on break.

The Department of Education, in partnership with Nevada County Public Health and the Nevada County Library are providing free lunches at four sites in Nevada County. The Food Bank of Nevada County is providing free lunches at apartment complexes throughout Grass Valley. Here are the details:

Department of Education Lunches

The California Department of Education is funding a free summer lunch program for children throughout the state, including three sites in Western Nevada County and one in Eastern Nevada County.

Free summer lunches are for kids ages 0-18 and 19-21 year olds with a mental or physical disability and an IEP. Lunch must be eaten on site.

Want to take the bus to lunch? Check out Gold Country Stage’s Summer Youth Pass and call 211 for help planning your trip.

Locations

Grass Valley Library

207 Mill Street, Grass Valley
Monday through Friday, June 10-August 13 (NO MEALS ON JULY 4th)
Lunch served from 12:00-12:30 pm
Activities from 12:30-1:00 pm

Lyman Gilmore Middle School

10837 Rough and Ready Hwy, Grass Valley
Monday through Friday, June 11-August 9 (NO MEALS ON JULY 4th)
Lunch served from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm outside near the basketball courts.

Meadow Park

10115 Donner Trail Road, Truckee (behind Plumas Bank)
Monday through Friday, July 8-August 2 (NO MEALS ON JULY 4th)
Lunch served from 12:15 to 12:45 pm
Activities from 12:45-1:15 pm

Memorial Park

350 Race Street, Grass Valley
Monday through Friday, June 17-August 9 (NO MEALS JULY 1st-5th)
Lunch served from 12:00 to 12:30 pm between the pool and the new playground

Food Bank Lunches

The Food Bank of Nevada County is also offering free summer lunches for kids, Monday through Friday, June 10-August 2. Lunches are served at six different apartment complexes in Grass Valley.

Summer lunches are open to all kids (you don’t need to live in the apartments to participate). See the Food Bank’s Summer Lunches flyer for details. From more information, call 530-272-3796.

Library Launches Summer Learning Program

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Drawing of an astronaut with Summer Learning dates3-2-1 BLASTOFF! The Nevada County Library is counting down for another great year of summer learning for kids. This is your chance to read books, earn prizes, and go to out-of-this-world events at your library.

Head over to your closest branch between June 8 and July 26 (in Western Nevada County) or June 26-August 14 (in Truckee) to pick up your Challenge Sheet and a free book. Submit your completed Challenge Sheet to win a prize, Nevada County Fair ride tickets, and a chance to win the Grand Prize.

From Baby Prom to the Otaku Anime Club, there is something for all ages and interests. Check out the Library’s Summer Learning Website for the full schedule.

All programs are free. No library card required.

Get Inspired with Great Summer Camp

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A group of kids in lime green t-shirts smile at the camera.

The Grass Valley Police Department, NEO, and PARTNERS Family Resource Center are teaming up this summer to host the Great Summer Youth Academy for local 6th, 7th, and 8th graders.

This super fun week-long day camp brings students together to build their leadership skills. The camp is led by uniformed Police officers and NEO staff. Activities include skits, games, and field trips. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Session 1, for 6th graders, is July 8-12.
Session 2, for 7th and 8th graders, is July 15-19.

Tuition is $125. Scholarships are available (write a note on your form if you are interested in a scholarship). The deadline to apply is May 22nd.

Check out the NEO website or call 530-470-3869 for more information.

To Apply

Download the application here.

Drop off your application and reference letter at the Family Resource Center located at 235 South Auburn Street (next to GV Charter School) or at the NEO Youth Center located at 139 Joerschke Drive.

Carnival Highlights Children’s Health & Wildfire Safety

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Carnival flyerBring the whole family out to the Rood Center on Saturday, May 4th from 12:00 to 4:00 pm for the Children’s Health & Wildfire Safety Carnival.
 
The day will include free activities, events, giveaways, and food. Meet your local first responders, watch a helicopter demo, or saddle up for a bike rodeo. And grab a free carseat and helmet while supplies last.
 
There’s something for everyone!
 
This year’s event is sponsored by the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services, Fire Safe Council of Nevada County, and Gold Country Kiwanis.
 
Go to MyNevadaCounty.com/SafetyCarnival for more information.

Details

What: Children’s Health & Wildfire Safety Carnival
When: Saturday, May 4th, 12:00 to 4:00 pm
Cost: FREE!

Unplug for Screen-Free Week

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Flyer for screen-free weekGet ready to put down your phones, tablets, and remote controls. Nevada County Public Health invites you to join your community in celebrating Screen Free Week, April 29th through May 5th.

Why Go Screen-Free?

We know that kids (and adults!) spend too much time on our devices. Preschool children spend between 2-5 hours a day using electronics. Older kids average 7 hours a day. Adults aren’t immune; we spend about 11 hours a day on screens.

We also know so much screen time isn’t healthy for us. It may negatively affect brain development for young children. It can increase children’s risk for obesity later in life. Too much screen-time for teens can mean they are less likely to hang out with friends. They’re also more likely to feel lonely or depressed. In people of all ages, screen-time can make it harder to fall asleep. It also takes time away from walking, cooking, family time, and just being outside.

So take the week of April 29th through May 5th to unplug. Spend the week reading, drawing, playing, hiking, and creating. Explore new walking trails. Connect with family and friends.

Need Some Ideas?

The community is coming together to offer activities for you and your family during Screen Free Week. Here are just a few of the things you can do:

Dream Art at the Madelyn Helling Library 
April 30, 3:00 to 5:00 pm 
Inspired by the Storywalk Book “Dreamers” by Yuyi Morales, make collage art about your dreams. All ages welcome.

Teen Hike with NEO on Deer Creek Tribute Trail
April 30, 4:00 to 7:00 pm. RSVP required. Call or text (530) 470-3869.

“Hike Like A Girl”
The Bear Yuba Land Trust (BYLT), The Friendship Club, and Folk Trails Hiking Club have teamed up to celebrate national Hike like a Girl Weekend to encourage female-identified people of all ages to walk or hike this weekend and every day. Free guided hikes will be offered on various BYLT trails.
May 4 and 5. Info at BYLT.org/events.

Food Love Farm Annual Plant Sale 
May 4th, 9:00 am-1:00 pm. Potluck at 1:00 pm.
Bring the kids from 12-3 to explore the farm, run around on a scavenger hunt, play compost bingo and more. 
16200 Lake Vera Purdon Road, Nevada City

Visit the Nevada County Public Health website to print a Screen-Free pledge card and download a complete list of activities.

Upcoming Trainings Focus on Youth Mental Health

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Flyer with details of the Youth Mental Health First Aid trainingWhat’s Up! Wellness is hosting two upcoming trainings for adults interested in learning about adolescent mental health. The Youth Mental Health First Aid training gives participants information on how to provide initial support and resources to youth in need. The two-day class covers the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and teaches participants how to help a teen in crisis.

Participants who complete the full eight hour class will be certified for three years.

For more information, call 530-268-5854 or email wellnesscheckups@gmail.com.

Details

What: Youth Mental Health First Aid training
When: March 28 and 29, 9:30 am-1:45 pm
Where: FREED, 435 Sutton Way in Grass Valley
Cost: Free
Click here to register

What: Youth Mental Health First Aid training
When: April 4 and 5, 9:00 am-1:15 pm
Where: Nevada County Superintendent of Schools, 380 Crown Point Circle, Grass Valley
Cost: Free
Click here to register

Free Screening of Angst, a Film Exploring Youth Anxiety

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Black and white image of a young person wearing a swim cap in a pool. The Text reads: "Angst. Anxiety disorders are real, common, and treatable...let's talk about it!

The Nevada Joint Union High School District is proud to present two free screenings of the award-winning film Angst. Angst explores anxiety, its causes, its effects, and what we can do about it. The film features interviews with kids and young adults who have or have had anxiety and what they’ve learned about it along the way. Viewers will learn more about the causes of anxiety and resources and tools available for those living with anxiety.

Both free screening will be followed by a panel discussion with local experts. Guardians, caregivers, and other caring adults are invited to attend. The film is appropriate for students 12+ as well. 

Check out a preview of Angst or see the Angst website for more information about the film.

Details

What: Free Screening of Angst
When & Where: March 11, 6:00-8:00 pm, Don Baggett Theater, Nevada Union High School
                              March 13, 6:00-8:00 pm, Bear River High School
Cost: Free

USDA Offers Home Repair Loans & Grants for Homeowners with Low Income

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California’s housing crisis has put a strain on many individuals and families with low income. It’s critically important that homeowners with low income, particularly seniors, be able to make 

Click on the image above to open a PDF of the flyer.

necessary repairs to stay safely in their own homes.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering financial assistance to meet this community need.

The USDA’s Home Repair Loan and Grant Program offers qualifying rural homeowners low-interest loans or grants to repair roofing, siding, flooring, insulation, electrical, and other health and safety hazards. The program provides grants of up to $7,500 for individuals aged 62 and over and loans of to $20,000 (with interest as low as 1%) for qualifying low-income homeowners of any age.

In Nevada County, annual income limits are $38,350 for a household of one to four people and $50,650 for a household of five to eight people (see table below).

To qualify you must:

  • Be the homeowner and occupy the house
  • Be unable to obtain affordable credit elsewhere
  • Have a family income below 50% of the area’s median income
  • For grants, be age 62 or older and not be able to repay a repair loan

Nevada County Income Limits:

 Household Size 1-4 People 5-8 People
 Maximum Annual Income $38,350 $50,650

To get your application started, contact Program Specialist Robert Canepa by phone at 530-217-6252 or by email at robert.canepa@usda.gov. USDA Rural Development’s nearest service center is located at 11661 Blocker Drive, Suite 120 in Auburn.To learn more about the Home Repair Loan and Grant Program’s requirements, check out the USDA website or download the flyer for more information.

School Safety Summits

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The Nevada County Superintendent of Schools Office is hosting two upcoming Safety Summits for parents and guardians of local students. Learn how the Superintendent’s Office collaborates with first responders to prepare for and respond to crises in our schools.

This engaging presentation will include representatives from local law enforcement, fire services, and the California Highway Patrol. The panel will address issues such as wildfires, lockdowns, and shelter-in-place procedures.

Summit Dates:

Tuesday, March 5th, 6:30 to 8:00 pm
Nevada Union High School
11761 Ridge Road, Grass Valley

Tuesday, March 12th, 6:30 to 8:00 pm
Bear River High School
11130 Magnolia Road, Grass Valley

For more information, contact Safety and School Climate Coordinator Chris Espedal by phone at 530-478-6400 ext. 2047 or by email at cespedal@nevco.org.