The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Cover
The Community Connect2020 Issue 01New to Homeschool
Self Sufficiency Programs
Graduating residents and new opportunities
HACG Hornets
In Birmingham, AL for the SERC MLK Basketball Tournament
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Directory
Directory.
HACG Main Building
700 N. Jefferson Ave.
(919) 735-4226Occupancy
1608 E. Holly St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1135Jobs Plus
138 Dupoint Circle
(919) 735-4226 x 1406FSS
1608 E. Holly St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1126ROSS
1906 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1301Resident Services
1906 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1301Fairview Apartments
1729 Edgerton St.
Goldsboro, NC 27530
(919) 735-4226 x 1133Lincoln Homes
1009 Slaughter St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1138
(919) 735-4226 x 1137Elmwood Terrace
409 Hinson St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1140
(919) 735-4226 x 1141West Haven Development
701 West Oak St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1142
(919) 735-4226 x 1143GHA Maintenance Emergencies
(919) 735-4080Law Enforcement
Non-Emergency
(919) 705-6572-----
Board of Commissioners
Chairwoman - Goldie Smith
Vice Chair - Richard Durham
I. K. Williamson
Jean Whitfield
William Turner
Washea Lancaster
Don Barnes
-----
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - CEO Message
FROM THE CEO
We as a nation, state, city, a community are experiencing something totally new, this coronavirus epidemic. We at the Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro are working daily to keep with the requirements of our state officials and the CDC to help prevent the spread of
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) in our communities. Currently, our offices are closed to the public, but our staff is available by phone and email. Because we are stressing the importance of social distancing and limiting in-person interactions there will be no recreational activities at community centers, and all events currently scheduled are canceled, until further notice. Our Resident Services staff and self-sufficiency programs are working to connect with participants virtually.
The pages of this newsletter have been put together with you in mind. In it, you will find community information, educational resources, and basic protective measures against the new
coronavirus. Please stay connected to our social media pages and subscribe to receive updates by email or text message on our website at hacg.org. Take this time at home to reconnect with your family unit, research opportunities through Wayne CC, Jobs Plus, FSS, and Ross programs as well as others. As always we are trusting in God.
ANTHONY GOODSON, JR.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - New to Homeschool
New to Homeschool
tips + resources for parents teaching their kids from home
-Coordinate with Teachers
Follow the learning plans, but have a chat with the teacher to learn what is expected of them and of you. Build a workflow that
works for your child and your family.-Set a Schedule...
You may be following a lesson plan, but it's up to you and your child to set how you'll work with it. If you do have the flexibility, set up times for study and breaks at times that work with your child and family.-...But be Flexible
Changes do happen. Even if you have lesson plans and study schedules, home school is a new scenario for many. Don't be too hard on yourself. Allow time to adjust.-Lean in to your child's natural interests
If your child is really engaged and self-driven on certain topics, schedule these topics during times where you can take a mental break or focus on other work.-Connect with Parents
Mailing lists of group chats are helpful. You can chat with parents going through home school the first time, share stories, get tips.
Times may be hard but you don't have to go through it alone.-Find some Online Resources for...
Worksheets and Activities
Online quizzes
Focus timers
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Learning Resources
FREE LEARNING & ENTERTAINMENT RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES DURING THE CORONAVIRUS
LEARNING AND FUN EDUCATIONAL WEBSITES:
Scholastic - www.scholastic.com/learnathome
Scholastic You can play games, create your own comics, and more.
Audible - Free stories with Audible
Khan Academy - www.khanacademy.org
Khan Academy offers free courses of all grade levels to help students master subjects and accelerate their learning.
PBS LearningMedia - www.pbslearningmedia.org
PBS LearningMedia provides students with free lesson plans, videos, and games aligned with standards they are learning in the classroom.
TEDEd - https://ed.ted.com
TEDEd brings lessons to life for students through animation.
Code - code.org
Code.org provides free K-12 computer science lessons and games to help students learn how to code at an earlier age.
CoolMath - CoolMath.com
Offers online math games that help students ages 3+ with basic math lessons, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimals, money and more.
National Geographic Kids - kids.nationalgeographic.com
On National Geographic Kids, students of all ages can enjoy science experiments, animal watch cameras and a ton of activities to keep them busy for hours.Starfall - Starfall.com
A great online resource that helps pre-K to 3rd grade students with language arts and math lessons. It also offers a parent-teacher resource center for free, downloadable worksheets and more.
Highlights Kids - highlightskids.com
Highlights Kids offers online ways to play, read and craft with animated stories and more.TIME for Kids - TIMEforKids.com
Offers interesting articles, photos and videos on topics like politics, the environment, entertainment, sports and health.
Duolingo - www.duolingo.com
Duolingo offers a rewarding, personalized learning experience in more than 20 languages, including Spanish, French, German, Chinese, and more.
BrainPOP - www.brainpop.com
BrainPOP provides animated interactive lessons, quizzes, and games for core subjects and a variety of electives.
Go Noodle - www.gonoodle.com
Engages 14 million kids every month with movement and mindfulness videos created by child development experts. Available for free at school, home, and everywhere kids are!
Typing Club - www.typingclub.com
TypingClub is the most effective way to learn how to type.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - HACG Hornets
Features - HACG Hornets in Birmingham, AL
Recently, our HACG Hornets had an amazing opportunity to fly to
Birmingham, AL to participate in the SERC MLK Basketball Tournament. Birmingham, Alabama is a city rich in history, that played a crucial role in the civil rights movement. Not only did our youth play a game they love, but they took notes from former NFL players, toured historical sites like the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and stood on the steps of the first black church in Birmingham, the 16th Street Baptist Church. How awesome is that?! What better way for our youth to commemorate the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. than to walk in his footsteps!
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Local Job Opportunities
Local Job Opportunities
Customer Service and Healthcare Professionals:
Are you ready for a new career where you can help others? We need YOU now! Multiple locations hiring Resident Assistants to become CNAs. Make a difference at Sava Senior Care Client Centers. SavaCareers.comTeam Chevrolet of Goldsboro is hiring. Right now we are looking for experienced Sales Consultants that can hit the ground running. If you are currently looking for a great home with awesome benefits we would invite you to stop down and meet our GSM Brad Stallard! To view open positions visit:teamgoldsboro.com
Case Farms is looking for multiple workers for their facility in Goldsboro - some of them skilled positions. For more information about current openings, visit casefarms.com/careers
Mt. Olive Pickle Company is hiring! The food industry is considered a critical infrastructure industry. If you or someone you know, have been laid off recently, we can help! Work until your employer resumes business or join our team long-term. We have both seasonal and regular opportunities available! Visit our career page at mtolivepickles.com to apply!
Goldsboro Milling Company is hiring for multiple positions. Apply at www.work4gmc.com
Also Hiring:
For more opportunities visit: www.ncworks.gov
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Coronavirus Resources
CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES
-Food Stamps
Benefits for current eligible Food and Nutrition Services recipients are being temporarily increased. Regardless of a family's normal benefit allotment, they will receive the maximum amount for their household size during March and April.
Questions? Call 1-888-622-7328
Visit www.ebtedge.com-Filing Unemployment
If you've lost your job due to #COVID-19, you can file for unemployment:
1. Create an online account and file online at des.nc.gov.
2. Choose 'coronavirus' as your reason for separation when filing your claim.
3. Complete a Weekly Certification to receive benefits for that week.Eligibility, the exact amount of benefits and the length you will receive those benefits will be determined after you file your claim.
-Internet Access
Now more than ever it's important you have access to the Internet to stay in-touch with your family, friends, work and school. The companies below are attempting to keep us connected with low rates and some free access:
Access from AT&T is temporarily offering two months of free service to new customers who order Access by April 30, 2020. Visit att.com/access to see whether your household qualifies and to submit an application.
Spectrum is offering free access to broadband and WiFi services to households with students who do not already have the services.
Call (855) 243-8892 to see if your household qualifies for this offer.-Need Help
Wayne County has established a Public Info Hotline to answer questions about COVID-19. This is a non-emergency number to answer questions about stay-at-home orders, what you can do to prevent the spread, and questions about COVID-19 response/changes across the County.
The hotline will be open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm and weekends from 10am-2pm. Remember, if it is an emergency, please call 911.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Resources Continued
-Mental Health Resources
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has two new mental health resources to support North Carolinians throughout the COVID-19 crisis.The Hope4NC Helpline (1-855-587-3463) connects North Carolinians to additional mental health and resilience supports that help them cope and build resilience during times of crisis. Hope4NC is now available 24 hours per day, seven days a week to speak to a live person.
The Hope4Healers Helpline (919-226-2002) is a new initiative in partnership with the North Carolina Psychological Foundation. It provides mental health and resilience supports for health care professionals, emergency medical specialists, first responders, other staff who work in health care settings and their families throughout the state who are experiencing stress from being on the front lines of the state's COVID-19 response. Hope4Healers is also available 24 hours per day, seven days a week for people to reach out for support; they will be contacted quickly by a licensed mental health professional for follow-up.
-Continuing Education
Wayne Community College's Workforce Continuing Education ed2go online courses are an option for individuals who want to continue learning in the safety of their homes. ed2go provides hundreds of career-related and personal enrichment courses. They are offered in eight-week sessions, both instructor-led and self-paced, and result in 2.4 Continuing Education Units. For go more information, go to the ed2go webpage.
The application deadlines are May 7 for Medical Assisting, Medical Laboratory Technology, Pharmacy Technology, Dental Assisting and Practical Nursing. Counseling and Admissions/Records are working with students to complete their interviews and application needs. Allied Health interviews are being conducted by phone. Contact Counseling Services via email at
wcc-counseling@waynecc.edu with questions or to schedule an interview. Residents seeking assistance please contact Resident Services at 919.735.4226 ext 1301.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Boosting Immune System
All Systems Go: Boosting Your Immune System
by: Ayisha Razzak-EllisAs we are witnessing day after day, the coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, is difficult to keep from spreading. Let's not forget that the flu is making its rounds and allergy season is upon us. Having a strong immune system is not only important during this extreme time but is also important all year through.
How Does the Immune System Work?
The immune system is a group of tissues, cells, and organs that work together to protect the body from outside interference such as germs and infections. It's our first line of defense against germs and it keeps tabs of every germ that has ever entered the body.How Do I Know if My Immune System is Weak or Strong?
A weak immune system can happen at birth, or can be brought on by environmental factors. A person with a weak or compromised immune system is usually more susceptible to pneumonia, bronchitis, and skin infections. HIV and AIDS, as well as certain cancers, can also weaken an immune system. Individuals with a strong immune system are less likely to get recurring infections.What Can I Do to Improve My Immune System?
There are a few things that can be done to improve your immune system. They include, but are not limited to:Getting plenty of sleep
Staying hydrated (only water can hydrate the body)
Limiting alcohol intake
Quitting/Reducing smoking
Minimizing stress (wherever possible)
Getting exercise
Getting plenty of sunlight (use sunscreen)
Eating plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits
Taking probiotics and multivitaminsWhat Foods are Good for the Immune System?
This list of foods are great for boosting the immune system:Oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, limes, and lemons
Ginger
Almonds
Broccoli
Red bell peppers
GarlicAdding these foods to your daily or weekly intake will help boost the immune system. When the flu or any other virus or disease presents itself, your body will be able to fight it off a lot easier.
For the latest updates on the coronavirus, check out CDC.gov.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Stop the Spread
Stop the Spread
-Wash your hands frequently
Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based
hand rub or wash them with soap and water.-Maintain Physical Distancing
Maintain at least 6 ft. distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
-Avoid Touching Eyes, Nose, and Mouth
Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth.
-If you have A fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early
Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Teen Talk
Teen Talk
April 2020 Vol 3
The Official Newsletter of the HACG Scholar
HACG SCHOLARSHIP APPLY TODAY!
Visit hacgscholar.org for more information!The Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro Scholar Program is excited to announce that again this year we will be awarding scholarship support to qualified students living in HACG subsidized
housing. These scholarships are currently available to graduating seniors that plan on pursuing their education at a trade school, community college or four-year university. Applications will be accepted
through April 15, 2020.Teen Must Reads:
A powerful story about a girl striving for success in a world that too often seems like it's trying to break her.
An eminently satisfying story of family, recovery, and growing into manhood.
Follow on social media for more upcoming events, scholarships, and resources!
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Teen Talk 2
Mental Health: Issues facing our Youth:
There are a number of things that can cause mental health issues in teens. Mental illness is a disorder of brain function and is not choice. Mental illness should be taken very seriously. Some of the issues
that contribute to mental health issues are, physical, emotional, and social changes such as being exposed to extreme poverty, physical abuse, emotional
abuse, and neglect. Additionally, mental health issues can arise when a teen does not have support at home, is having issues with friends, or is questioning their sexuality. Mental health issues can include:
ADHD
Major Depression
Conduct Disorder
Anxiety/Panic Disorders
Eating Disorders1 in 5 teenagers suffer from a mental illness. This is a staggering number, and needs to be addressed. Having a mental illness is like having any other disease; it needs to be treated, not ignored. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, depression, or an eating disorder, be sure to reach out to our staff for assistance and resources to help.
With COVID-19 wreaking havoc on our lives, teens are more likely to be dealing with anxiety and depression. Social Isolation is very important, but can also be difficult. Here are some tips to help during these difficult times:
Meditate (take deep breaths)
Stretch
Go for a walk (6 feet from others)
Read a book
Play a board game with your family·
Only work on school work 3-4 hours each day
Contact us @ 919-735-4226 ext. 1406 if you feel you need support or have questions.--
Money Corner
-Open a savings or checking account at a bank.
-Cards such as Netspend, Green Dot, and Chime should only be used as last resorts.
-Do not get a credit card if you can't make more than the monthly payment.
-Save, Save, Save!
-Do not cosign for cars, credit cards, loans, or apartments!
--
We're Hiring! Summer Youth Employment
Application Deadline: April 24
Each year Wayne County offers summer employment opportunities to teens living within the city limits. Please go to this website for more information:
https://www.goldsboronc.gov/wp-content/uploads/FY20-SYEI-FAQ.pdf
Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter for up to date information and resources.
Financial security for tomorrow starts today!
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Teen Talk 3
Thaddeus Washington
Job Developer at Jobs Plus
Started at Jobs Plus May of 2016, and states, "The best part about working with Jobs Plus is being able to help and support people in the efforts to overcome challenges and barriers to employment.
Married with 3 children and 4 grandchildren.
Loves God, Family, and ideas.. Favorite color is blue.Advice he would give to his 17-year-old self--- Stay focused, don't get sidetracked!
Sanai Thomas, Dakota Tomas, AuJanet Leftwridge, Kyla Steadman, Kaili Thomas, Taina Pendleton
Teen Advisory Board
On December 11, 2019 a group of West Haven teens came together to create the first Teen Advisory Board. The members decided to elect officers and meet every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. The goal of the teen advisory board is to be of service to others, to promote education, and to improve their community. Their mission is: To inspire and motivate our community by improving education and influencing change by empowering other youth!
From left to right: President: Laressia Steadman, Secretary: Jaedan Smith Vice President: Kyanna Faulkner
TAB Service Projects:
Gave out goody bags to seniors in the community for Valentine's Day.
Assisting with Tuesday's Homework Club and Sydney's Book Club.Follow on social media for more upcoming events, scholarships, and resources!
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Census
Census 2020 - Make Yourself Count
You Matter. Get Counted!
Your Census Matters.
The Census is your chance to make sure your community counts. Participating in the Census will help make sure our community gets:
-Fair representation in Congress
-Financial resources for health, schools, transportation, and more.
-Information leaders need to help your community plan for the future.
Help Make NC Count!
Completing the survey is quick and easy to do. By using your phone, tablet or computer, or simply grabbing a pencil or pen, you can complete the questionnaire, spending less than 10 minutes on what can impact your community in the next 10 years.
The process is safe, easy and important and you can respond in one of three ways:
-Online
It's safe, secure, and confidential. Your information and privacy are protected, visit my2020census.gov/
-Phone
To complete the questionnaire by phone call 844-330-2020.
When responding, use blue or black ink to fill in the questionnaire. Do not use a pencil.When finished, return the questionnaire in the envelope provided.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Resident Cohort Program
Exclusive - Resident Cohort Program
"I am grateful for this program and for Mrs. Hayes and Mrs. Perkins. They really care and they live what they teach us. My whole perspective of life has changed since I've been in this program. I am so excited about my future." - -Lekishia Smith
For Residents wanting self-sufficiency!
EXPRESS INTEREST NOW TO ENROLL IN OUR NEXT COHORT PROGRAM!We're so excited to celebrate our residents, that we planned a full-fledged Graduation Ceremony in their honor! These ladies completed 12 weeks and 45 class hours towards their self-sufficiency! They earned certificates, networked and accomplished goals they never thought possible! We treated them to shopping, a photoshoot, and other incentives!
Our ROSS program is eager to help connect our residents with employment training, financial literacy services, educational opportunities, and health and wellness programs.If you're a resident in need of these services or if you would like to know more information then give us a call at 919.735.4226 ext 1301.
We're looking forward to working with you!
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Family Self Sufficiency
Journey Map for Family Self Sufficiency
Earnings Increase = Savings Increase
1. Outreach
The resident hears about the FSS program through a postcard, welcome packet insert, or from a staff member/friend.
2. Orientation
Resident attends orientation to learn more about FSS program to see if it's a good fit for them.
3. Enroll & Set Goals
Resident is excited about FSS and meets with FSS Coordinator to enroll and set goals for the program.
4. One on One
Participant continues to meet with the FSS Coordinator regularly to help make progress on goals.
5. Increase Income and Save
The participant increases his/her earned income, reports it to property management and begins to save via escrow.
6. Achieve and Graduate
Participant achieves goals sometimes with the help of disbursement, meets all criteria for graduation and earns escrow.
New Program
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently awarded The Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro a $66,746 Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) grant to help local families make progress toward self-sufficiency. The FSS program encourages innovative strategies that link housing assistance with a broad spectrum of services that will enable participating families to find jobs, increase earned income, reduce or eliminate the need for rental and/or welfare assistance, and make progress toward achieving economic independence and housing self-sufficiency.
Our FSS program will serve residents living in Elmwood, Little Washington and Woodcrest as well as participants in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV)- Section 8 Program. If you're ready to join us on the journey towards self-sufficiency then connect with our FSS Coordinator, James Jones at 919.735.4226 ext 1126.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 01 - Back Cover
Resident Services Banquet
A FESTIVE NIGHT OF CELEBRATING OUR RESIDENTS AND THEIR SUCCESS, AS WELL AS APPRECIATING OUR STAFF AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS!