Sponsor a wish list and spread some holiday cheer to those who need it most

SMYRNA (Oct. 27, 2022) – The Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill (DHCI) in Smyrna is asking members of the community to sponsor a resident for the holidays. Since many residents have little family involvement or support, the nursing home relies on the generosity of community members including neighbors, local businesses, community organizations, and volunteers to help fulfill resident wishes at the holidays through the Adopt-A-Resident Program.

“The Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill is truly grateful for the continued generosity and kindness of those who step forward to make a difference for our residents over the holidays and throughout the year,” said Melissa Smith, director of the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD).

DHCI is a licensed skilled nursing facility (SNF), operated by the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities, and dedicated to comprehensive nursing home services for Delawareans who have no other options for their care.

Members of the community, as individuals or as groups, can participate in Adopt-A-Resident at Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill in one of three ways:

• Adopt-A-Resident: Sponsors are provided with the identification code and the wish list of a resident. The sponsor is asked to buy the wish list items and deliver them unwrapped in a gift bag to the Medical Administration Building Lobby Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:40 p.m. at Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, 100 Sunnyside Road, Smyrna.
• Monetary donation: Donate by gift card or check and leave the shopping to staff at DHCI. Donations may be mailed to the Volunteer Services Office, Delaware Hospital for the Chronically Ill, 100 Sunnyside Road, Smyrna, DE, 19977.
• General donation: Buy items from the list of suggested gifts that coordinators will email to you. During the holidays, these items are utilized to fill gift bags for residents who have not been adopted, and during the rest of the year they are utilized to fill resident birthday bags and special requests for residents.

To participate in Adopt-A-Resident, please email Tina.Wagner@delaware.gov or call 302-223-1011 and let us know how you wish to help. Please also leave your name and the best way to contact you.

(DOVER, Del.—Dec. 20, 2019)—The five state museums administered by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs (the John Dickinson Plantation, the Johnson Victrola Museum, the New Castle Court House Museum, The Old State House and the Zwaanendael Museum) will be closed all day on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2019 (Christmas Eve), Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2019 (Christmas Day), and Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2020 (New Year’s Day). All of the sites will return to their normal operating hours on Dec. 26, 2019 and Jan. 2, 2020 respectively.

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is an agency of the State of Delaware. The division enhances Delaware’s quality of life by preserving the state’s unique historical heritage, fostering community stability and economic vitality and providing educational programs and assistance to the general public on Delaware history. The division’s diverse array of services includes operation of five museums which are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, administration of the State Historic Preservation Office, conservation of the state’s archaeological and historic-objects collections, operation of a conference center and management of historic properties across the state. Primary funding for division programs and services is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Park Service, Department of the Interior, a federal agency. However, the contents and opinions expressed in the division’s programs and services do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Department of the Interior.

Contact:
Jim Yurasek
Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
Phone: 302-739-7787
E-mail: Jim.Yurasek@delaware.gov
Web: http://history.delaware.gov

NEW CASTLE (Nov. 19, 2019) – The Department of Health and Social Services’ Adopt-A-Family Holiday program is seeking donors to help make this holiday season a happier one for thousands of children, adults, people with disabilities and seniors in need across Delaware.

The Adopt-A-Family Holiday program anonymously matches donors to seniors, individuals with disabilities or families with children. In 2018, the Holiday Adopt-A-Family program, through the leadership of the Human Services Council, Inc., helped 2,548 Delawareans.

“The Adopt-A-Family Holiday program is a great way for Delawareans to reach out and lift the spirits of those in need during the holidays,” Governor John Carney said. “Please take a moment to consider making a donation. By giving back, we can help make the holidays happier for our fellow Delawareans.”

The deadline to “adopt” families with children is Dec. 6, and all gift cards must be delivered to the Adopt-A-Family office by Dec. 13. The deadline to deliver gifts for seniors and persons with disabilities to the Adopt-A-Family office is Dec. 6.

Adopt-A-Family provides donors with the age and gender of each child in the family and a brief description of the circumstances that led to their need for assistance. The sponsor then provides gift cards for the head-of-household to use to purchase holiday gifts. The recommended minimum gift is $100 per child, with a gift card for the parent/guardian optional but thoughtful.

Those interested in adopting seniors or persons with disabilities will be matched to an individual who is living in a nursing home or someone who is living alone and receiving in-home care services. A wish list of items that the individual enjoys, needs, or would appreciate, as well as clothing preferences and sizes, will be provided.

“Each year, I am grateful for the generous spirit of Delawareans as they embrace their neighbors in need,” said Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker. “During the holidays, there is no better gift we can give than to offer our support to those individuals and families who are facing crises in their lives.”

Families who are “adopted” are contacted by Adopt-A-Family to pick up their gift cards from the Adopt-A-Family office. Eligible recipients are referred to Adopt-A-Family by social workers from social service agencies throughout the state.

“Each year we find that many of our neighbors in need are referred to Adopt-A-Family through our State Service Centers and other organizations, because of serious medical conditions, behavioral health challenges, domestic violence, homelessness and unemployment,” said Renée P. Beaman, Director of DHSS’ Division of State Service Centers, which operates the program. “The stories of those in need are poignant, and I am hopeful that my fellow Delawareans will respond generously.”

These circumstances are a sample of the hundreds of individuals and families available for adoption this season:

• This family experienced a fire in 2017 and lost everything. Since then they have not been able to recover financially. The mother is unable to find employment and no longer is receiving child support. She also recently separated from her fiancé, who was the main support for the family.
• This single mother has been hospitalized multiple times throughout the year due to having a serious cardiac condition. She is on disability permanently due to how severe it is and is raising her daughter with no help.
• This client has guardianship of her granddaughter and nephew. She is sickly and has been a victim of domestic violence and, up until recently, has been homeless. Thankfully, she now has a place to live, but the majority of her unearned income goes to her rent. She shares that the children in her care barely have anything, which is especially hard on the oldest girl.

This year, Adopt-Family Holiday has an online platform for “adopting” families. Those interested in using the platform can scroll through a list of available families and choose a family they would like to “adopt” by Friday, Dec. 6. Those webpages are:

• New Castle County: https://www.roonga.com/aafnewcastle2019
• Kent County: https://www.roonga.com/aafkent2019
• Sussex County: https://www.roonga.com/aafsussex2019

To “adopt” an individual or family, please contact:

• New Castle County: New Castle County Adopt-A-Family at 302-792-6510 or email AdoptafamilyNC2@delaware.gov. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Mail or drop off donations to this address: Adopt-A-Family, 3301 Green St., Claymont, DE 19703
• Kent and Sussex counties: Kent and Sussex Adopt-A-Family at 302-424-7260 or email Adopt-a-family-ks@delaware.gov. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Mail or drop off donations to this address: Adopt-A-Family, 13 SW Front St., Milford, DE 19963

When donors are matched with an individual or family, they will be given a code to include with the gift cards or items when they drop them off so the Adopt-A-Family staff knows who should receive the items. Items may be dropped off at Adopt-A-Family offices in New Castle County (3301 Green St., Claymont) or Kent and Sussex counties (13 SW Front St., Milford).

Gift cards may be mailed to either Adopt-A-Family office. If choosing this option, please include the family code provided by Adopt-A-Family staff in the shipping address when mailing the gift cards. If you would prefer to drop the gift cards off in person, hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please contact the Adopt-A-Family office if you need alternative delivery arrangements.

The Adopt-A-Family program aids families in crisis – those struggling with illness, homelessness, domestic violence, poverty or unemployment – throughout the year. The program was started in 1973 by Marge Meyerman and is coordinated by the Division of State Service Centers in all three counties.

For more information about Adopt-A-Family, go to the website or contact your nearest state service center.

NEW CASTLE (Nov. 20, 2018) – The Department of Health and Social Services’ Adopt-A-Family Holiday program is seeking sponsors to help make the holiday season a happier one for thousands of children, adults, people with disabilities and seniors in need in Delaware.

The Adopt-A-Family Holiday program anonymously matches sponsors to seniors, individuals with disabilities or families with children. In 2017, the Holiday Adopt-A-Family program, through the leadership of the Human Services Council, Inc., helped 2,467 Delawareans.

“We always appreciate those who reach out and help those in need, but it is especially meaningful at the holidays when donations have the ability to lift people’s spirits, too,” Governor John Carney said. “Please take a moment to consider helping your fellow Delawareans in need by making a donation through Adopt-A-Family’s Holiday program. It’s another way we can share a connection with those in need and make sure the holidays are happier for them.”

The deadline to “adopt” families with children is Dec. 7, and all gift cards must be delivered to the Adopt-A-Family office by Dec. 14. The deadline to deliver gifts for seniors and persons with disabilities to the Adopt-A-Family office is Dec. 7.

Adopt-A-Family provides sponsors with the age and gender of each child in the family and a brief description of the circumstances that led to their need for assistance. The sponsor then provides gift cards for the head-of-household to use to purchase holiday gifts. The recommended minimum gift is $100 per child, with a gift card for the parent/guardian optional but thoughtful.

Those interested in adopting seniors or persons with disabilities will be matched to an individual who is living in a nursing home or living alone receiving in-home care services. A wish list of things the individual enjoys, needs, or would appreciate, as well as clothing preferences and sizes, will be provided.

“I am always gratified to see the generous spirit of Delawareans in action,” said Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker. “Not only are you helping a Delaware individual or family by donating to Adopt-A-Family this holiday season, but that act of giving back can also increase your feelings of well-being, lower your holiday stress and provide you with a greater sense of purpose.”

Families who are “adopted” are contacted by Adopt-A-Family to pick up their gift cards from the Adopt-A-Family office. Eligible recipients are referred to Adopt-A-Family by social workers from social service agencies throughout the state.

“Each year we find that many of our neighbors in need are referred to Adopt-A-Family through our State Service Centers, and other organizations, because of serious medical conditions, behavioral health challenges, domestic violence, homelessness and unemployment,” said Renée P. Beaman, Director of DHSS’ Division of State Service Centers, which operates the program. “The stories of those in need are poignant, and I am hopeful that my fellow Delawareans will respond generously.”

These circumstances are a sample of the hundreds of individuals and families available for adoption this season:

• A single mother of three young children was recently diagnosed with colon cancer. She has started chemo treatments and is living with other disabilities. This family is in significant need of help from the community.
• A family, with one teenage daughter, lost their home in Puerto Rico and all possessions during Hurricane Maria. The family relocated to Delaware. They moved in with friends, found employment and began to rebuild their lives here. Unfortunately, those working were laid off and the family had to stay in a hotel for a week. Since then, they were referred to a program for assistance, Dad has recently found work and the daughter has been able to start school. Starting over after such devastation is humbling for any family but the combination of relocating to a new place where the language barrier affects the access to services has been even more devastating for this particular family.
• A 77-year-old male is a veteran and was awarded the Purple Heart. He has no family to support him. He loves the Philadelphia Eagles and is a big fan who watches their games consistently. He also loves hats.
•  A 93-year-old female, confined to a wheelchair, enjoys being read poems and stories. Stuffed animals bring her great joy. She has no family and is widowed.

This year Adopt-A-Family Delaware has an online platform for “adopting” families. Those interested in using the online platform may scroll through a list of available families and choose which family they would like to “adopt” until Friday, Dec. 7.

• New Castle County: https://www.roonga.com/aafnewcastle
• Kent County: https://www.roonga.com/aafkent
• Sussex County: https://www.roonga.com/aafsussex

To “adopt” an individual or family, please contact:

• New Castle County: New Castle County Adopt-A-Family at 302-792-6510 or email AdoptafamilyNC2@delaware.gov. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Mail or drop off donations to this address: Adopt-A-Family, 3301 Green St., Claymont, DE 19703.

• Kent and Sussex counties: Kent and Sussex Adopt-A-Family at 302-424-7260 or email Adopt-a-family-ks@delaware.gov. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Mail or drop off donations to this address: Adopt-A-Family, 13 SW Front St., Milford, DE 19963.

After shopping for individuals, items may be dropped off at Adopt-A-Family offices in New Castle County (3301 Green St., Claymont) or Kent and Sussex counties (13 SW Front St., Milford). Sponsors will be given a code when they are matched to include with the gift cards or items when they drop them off so the Adopt-A-Family staff knows who should receive the items.

Gift cards may be mailed to either Adopt-A-Family office. If choosing this option, please include the family code provided by Adopt-A-Family staff in the shipping address when mailing the gift cards: Adopt-A-Family – FAMILY CODE 00000. If you would prefer to drop the gift cards off in person, please contact the Adopt-A-Family office to schedule a drop-off appointment, between the hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The Adopt-A-Family program aids families in crisis – those struggling with illness, homelessness, domestic violence, poverty or unemployment – throughout the year. The program was started in 1973 by Marge Meyerman and is coordinated by the Division of State Service Centers in all three counties.

For more information about Adopt-A-Family, go to the website or contact your nearest state service center.

Dover – Still trying to think of the perfect gift? As we prepare to welcome 2017, the Division of Public Health (DPH) suggests giving gifts that support health and wellness in the New Year.

“In wishing all Delawareans a happy and healthy New Year, I hope they begin 2017 knowing that they can take small steps toward healthier lifestyles,” said Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH director. “Ideal first steps are to select healthier foods and appropriate portion sizes, be more physically active, make a plan to quit smoking, and schedule recommended immunizations and screenings for cancer, diabetes, blood pressure, and HIV.”

Gifts that increase physical activity can reduce the risk for chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. People who lose weight can prevent or delay diabetes, lower their blood pressure and cholesterol, and lessen pressure on their joints. Some examples of physical activity gifts are:

• Pedometer, fitness trackers, water bottle, ear buds, and music gift card

• Hat, ear warmers, mittens or gloves, winter work-out jacket, shirt, and warm pants or leggings; athletic footwear and socks

• Delaware State Parks annual pass for access to trails and other activities

• Sports balls and equipment; bicycle, helmet, and cycling gear; adjustable jump rope, work-out mat, towel, small weights, Kettlebell or pull-up bar, and resistance cord kit

• Gift certificates for bowling, roller skating, ice skating, ice hockey, swimming, dance or fitness classes, sports leagues, and gyms

Help families be prepared for winter emergencies with these gift ideas:

• For the disaster supply kit – flameless lanterns and candles, flashlights and batteries, several cases of bottled water, canned foods, non-salty snacks, and a manual can opener; and blankets and board games. Or, assist with compiling contact numbers and important household documents.

• For the Pet Emergency Supply Kit – An airtight, water proof container with food and water bowls, a manual can opener, backup collars (breakaway for cats), leashes, toys, treats and bedding. Also provide a large zipper-seal bag with paper for the pet owner to write down emergency contact information, medications the animal is taking, eating schedule and any behavior traits the owner thinks is important to include.

• For drivers – jumper cables, ice scraper, windshield snow cover, and backup windshield wipers; small shovel, sand, rock salt, and cat litter; a cell phone car charger and extra battery; a long red piece of material or scarf to tie on the door in case your vehicle becomes disabled; travel blankets, hat, and mittens; and energy bars, dry fruit, and bottled water.

Gifts of time and service are other options. Consider these opportunities:

• Make your own 2017 health, dental, and vision exams, and offer to schedule similar appointments for a family member or friend. Recommended lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, and cervical cancer screenings are at https://www.healthydelaware.org/Individuals/Cancer. Learn which cancer screenings are covered for free under the Affordable Care Act at Healthcare.gov .

• Take someone to get their flu shot at DPH’s Jan. 18, 2017 community flu clinic at Legislative Hall from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in Dover, or at other flu vaccination sites listed at flu.delaware.gov.

• Ask uninsured family and friends if they are enrolled in Delaware’s Health Insurance Marketplace. You may save them money. Those without health insurance who do not enroll by Jan. 31, 2017, may face a $695 penalty per adult ($347.50 for each child younger than 18) or 2.5 percent of their annual household income, whichever is higher. For more information, go to www.ChooseHealthDE.com. To enroll, go to www.HealthCare.gov.

• Help Delawareans understand that under the Affordable Care Act, they have access to free mammograms, blood pressure checks, and autism screening for toddlers. To learn about preventive benefits, visit HealthCare.gov and search for “prevention” and view the list of preventive health services.

• For those with private wells, purchase a DPH drinking water test kit ($4 for both bacteriological and chemical tests) and help collect the sample. Visit http://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/hsp/privdw.html.

• Install and maintain carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in a central location outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home, and a loved one’s, to provide early warning of CO. Carbon monoxide is called the “Invisible Killer” because it’s a colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas.

• Help those struggling with alcohol and drug addiction issues find resources at http://www.HelpIsHereDE.com/. Let smokers 18 years and older know they can get free help quitting by contacting the Delaware Quitline or calling toll-free: 1-866-409-1858.

A person who is deaf, hard-of-hearing, deaf-blind or speech-disabled can call the DPH phone number above by using TTY services. Dial 7-1-1 or 800-232-5460 to type your conversation to a relay operator, who reads your conversation to a hearing person at DPH. The relay operator types the hearing person’s spoken words back to the TTY user. To learn more about TTY availability in Delaware, visit http://delawarerelay.com.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.