The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - COVER
The Community Connect2020 Issue 03Inside this Issue
HACG Mobile Parade / Free Meals / Residents Getting Connected
$20,000 to Local Schools/ Teen Talk/ Self-sufficiency Programs
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Directory
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - DirectoryDirectory.
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
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The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Connecting Residents
We're Connecting Residents
The Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro's (HACG's) newest initiative with Open Broadband, LLC, will provide fast and reliable broadband internet to each of our public housing communities before the end of 2020. "We constantly strive to be a leader in the public housing community and to eliminate any barriers faced by the residents we serve. Our families are disproportionately under-connected and even more so now that we're in a pandemic" says CEO, Anthony Goodson, Jr.
In April of this year, the Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro received $786,191.00 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Public Housing Operation Fund, and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) to help manage and maintain resident services, as well as support and respond to the coronavirus pandemic in our housing communities. As a ConnectHomeUSA community since 2017, HACG saw the need for quality internet as a major priority for these funds. The funds will aid in the installation of the fixed-wireless internet that is much faster than other previous internet alternatives. West Haven uses a gigabit internet connection from a nearby Open Broadband tower site to provide connection to the community, and then a Wi-Fi mesh system to distribute the service to residents. HACG also intends to cover the usage charges for residents for at least 2 years.
Mr. Goodson states that "Access to high-quality broadband is no longer a luxury, but a necessity and bridging the digital divide with quality connectivity not only puts our residents' needs at the forefront, but ensures that everyone despite age, race, or current living arrangements have the resources they need to survive, succeed, and become self-sufficient--which is our top priority."
Alana Moore shares similar sentiments. Despite multiple health issues, Alana has still braved the weather to walk to the neighborhood community center to access computers for herself and her son, AJ. With many community centers closed due to the pandemic, she has had more difficulty with connectivity.
She states, "As a home school parent and business owner, the internet for my household is super necessary! Not only will my son be able to access his curriculum, but the vision for my business, Teach Love, will be brought to life. I will be able to explore graphic design, connect virtually with the students I tutor, and expand my reach--all from the comfort of my own home. These are my goals and having reliable internet connection brings them within reach!"
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Local School Donations
HACG Gives $20,000 to Local Schools
The Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro is pleased to continue our support of our local feeder schools by presenting them each with a $5,000 monetary donation to say "Thank You" and to assist them with their various initiatives.
We alongside our local public schools, share the work of serving our city's children. This is not something we take lightly. When we say #ouryouthmatter, we mean it. We support our youth however we can and are honored to continue our partnership with Carver Heights Elementary School, North Drive Elementary School, Dillard Middle School, and Goldsboro High School.
We look forward to future collaborations this school year!
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Our hope is that the monetary donation will assist each school with their...
(1) academic achievement initiatives
(2) parental involvement activities
(3) school attendance initiatives
4) any other efforts geared at educational enhancement for students and/or staff outlined in their School Improvement Plan.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Free Meals
"Grab & Go" Right From the Bus!
Residents with youth ages 1-18 no longer have to figure out how to get to the closest curbside location for lunch.
We've partnered with Wayne County Public Schools to make meals accessible in your community!
Residents can pick up meals at the Community Center in Little Washington and Woodcrest.
Residents in Fairview, Elmwood, West Haven, and Lincoln will find a school bus with grab and go meals parked near the management offices.
See the graphic below for specific times in your community.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Healthy Holidays
Health and the Holidays
By Ayisha Razzak-Ellis
Everywhere we look, it's evident that the holiday season is upon us, and with the coronavirus still hanging around, the holidays will look a lot different from previous years. Staying healthy during the holidays is more than watching what we eat and drink. In the midst of the virus, we also have to be cautious of who we are around and if we are practicing the three W's, wearing a mask, washing our hands, and waiting 6-10 feet apart. Although most people spend time with their families during the holidays, it's still important to stay safe so that no one is at risk of getting the coronavirus.
Moving on from the coronavirus, holiday parties, sweets, and treats can make it challenging for folks trying to lose weight or maintain good health. So, how does someone who has diabetes, high blood pressure, or other health conditions navigate through all the food and drink options? Knowing what condition(s) you have and what your limits are is a great start. Here are a few ideas on ways to remain healthy and still enjoy the holiday season:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated so that thirst is not mistaken for hunger.
- Eat healthy snacks between meals so that you are not starving at party time.
- Fill your plate with non starchy vegetables and eat them.
- Only eat until you are satisfied or full. Do not go into a food coma.
- Just because it's there, doesn't mean you have to eat it.
- Take small bites and chew slowly. Sometimes it's how you eat, not what you eat.
- If you want dessert, have it. Just have a very small serving.
For someone living with diabetes, the holidays can be especially challenging with all the carbs, and sugars that are served. If someone is an insulin-dependent diabetic, they will need to follow these rules to keep their blood sugars from spiraling out of control:
- Check blood sugars more frequently, as needed before eating
- Stick to a regular meal schedule
- Take medications with them to parties, as needed
- Add more vegetables and protein
- Alcohol can actually lower blood sugars, so don't drink on an empty stomach
- Count sweets/dessert as one of the daily carbs
- Be mindful of fresh fruit trays, natural sugar is still sugar
- Stay as active as possible
Holidays can be fun for everyone regardless of any medical condition. However, for those with health issues, it's even more important for them to stay safe as the coronavirus could be deadly. Enjoying family and friends in a safe way should be the main focus of the holidays, not the food. Happy Holidays!!!!
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Goshen Medical
Not feeling well? Need a flu shot?
Need a physical? Need dental care?
Don't have insurance?
For only $10 you can receive medical and dental care.
Next dates: Dec 2nd and Dec 16th
Medical - 10am -12pm
Dental - 12pm -2pm
Vacant Parking on Oak St. in West Haven
First Come, First Serve!
Questions? - 919.735.4226 ext 1406
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Holiday Safety Tips
Holiday Safety Tips
By Safe Kids Worldwide
www.safekids.org/holiday-safety-tips
Distracted Drivers and Pedestrians
Keep an eye out for distracted pedestrians and drivers who may not be paying attention to you, especially when backing out of parking spaces. Shopping center parking lots are busier during the holidays.
Holiday Decorate
Hang breakable ornaments at top of the tree. This leaves room for kids to decorate the bottom with non-breakable items.
Keep harmful plants out of reach. Some popular holiday plants are poisonous to children and pets, including mistletoe and holly berries. In a poison emergency, call the national Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Be aware of devices with button batteries.
Keep decorations with button batteries, such as greeting cards and small remote controls out of children's reach.
Fire Prevention
Water natural trees regularly. When needles are dry, they can catch fire easily.
Turn off decorative lights before leaving home or going to sleep. Regularly check lights for exposed or frayed wires and loose connections.
Keep candles and matches out of reach. Lit candles should be at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn, and don't forget to blow them out when you leave the room or before you go to sleep. Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight.
Check smoke alarms. Make sure there is a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and near sleeping areas. Review your fire escape plan with family members and guests.
Holiday Cooking
Create a kid-free zone. Teach younger children to stay at least 3 feet away from your cooking space. Place babies in a high chair outside of the kid-free zone where you can see them.
Keep hot foods and liquids out of children's reach. Cook on the back burners of the stove and keep hot foods away from the edge of your counters to prevent burns.
Teach older children how to cook safely. Teach them never to leave the kitchen while they're cooking and always use oven mitts or potholders to carry hot pots and pans.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Covid Testing
FREE COVID-19 TESTING!
Our agencies have come together to ensure that area residents are tested properly and effectively while helping to prevent the spread of the virus.
Resourceful Clinical Laboratory and Telugu Association of Greater Charlotte Area are both non-profit organizations created to inspire, uplift and be a resource for those in need. While the Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro strives to be a leader in the public housing industry and to improve the lives of the residents we serve. Over 500 individuals have been tested thus far and we're excited to announce more free testing opportunities!
Upcoming FREE Testing Sites:
November 19th - Lincoln Homes
November 20th - Fairview
Connect on FB for December dates.
Testing procedure: Swab tests are inserted into each nostril for 15 seconds.
If you would like more information about this topic, please call Stephanie Tyson at 980.213.5501 / styson13414@yahoo.com or contact Resident Services at 919.735.4226 ext. 1301.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Resources
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.
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 more information, go to the ed2go webpage.
Residents interested in going back to school or receiving the latest certification like the National Career Readiness Certification are invited to connect with the ROSS Program for assistance with tuition and fees. Contact the ROSS Program at 919.735.4226 ext 1301.
Financial Assistance
North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE) provides financial assistance for child care to parents/primary caregivers who have a school-age child who is attending a licensed child care facility (child care center or family child care home) or a registered community-based organization for remote learning as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. This program will operate until November 30, 2020.
Visit ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov for more information.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Support Groups
Man Cave is Here!
A Place for Men and Young Men to Talk, Learn & Grow Together!
Express interest in attending our next meetup or learn more information by contacting:
Thad Washington at 919.735.4226 ext 1402
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Pretty Tough Women's Support Group
Last month, our ladies shared their pandemic wins:
- Small businesses being started
- Certification classes being completed
- Credit scores rising and bank accounts opened due to information learned from Literacy Connections of Wayne County Bank on Wayne
- Enrollment in self-sufficiency programs to further skills
- New employment opportunities
Join us for support, encouragement, laughter, and adult conversation!
Next meeting on December 16th at 2 pm, connect with us from your phone, tablet, or computer via GoToMeeting: 429-094-717.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Trunk or Treat Pictures
HACG Mobile Parade Trunk or Treat featuring Community Partners
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Trunk or Treat Pictures 2
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Holiday Book Challenge
HACG Holiday Book Challenge
For all grade levels
K-4 (Read 8 books or more)
5-8 (Read 5 books or more)
9-12 (Read 3 books or more)
Sign up at the Management Office!
Sign Up Day - December 9th
Fairview: 12:00-12:45 Management Office
Lincoln: 1:00-1:45 Management Office
Elmwood: 2:00-2:45 Management Office
West Haven: 3:00-3:45 Management Office
We will provide the first 25 children per development to sign up with a Pull String bag, a couple of books, and a few other resources.
For more information:
919.735.4226 x 1301
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Teen Talk 1
Let's Talk
The HACG Scholar's program serves public housing students in grades 7-12 with college readiness and career exploration resources.
The Teen Talk newsletter is filled with tons of information for students and their parents to assist with exploring and developing career interests and postsecondary education pathways.
If you need more information visit our website for additional scholarships, upcoming events, and our parent support group meetings at hacgscholar.org or contact Resident Services at 919.735.4226 ext. 1301.
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Teen Must Reads
Dear Martin - Nic Stone
Learn how beneficial it is for people facing discrimination to have supportive relationships.
The Hate You Give - Angie Thomas
This book explores racism and justice, activism, and identity.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Teen Talk 2
10 Common Youth Issues:
- Acceptance
- Trust
- Motivation
- Stress
- Depression and anxiety
- Bullying
- Disrespect
- Self-harm
- Desensitization
- Sex
Youth face many different issues each and every day. It's not always easy for some to discuss how they feel or what they are dealing with, but as parents, teachers, and friends, we must pay close attention and have the hard conversations.
It is human nature to want to be accepted, so for some teens that means doing whatever it takes to 'fit-in', such as having sex, using drugs, or bullying others. Often times kids do not understand that the choices they make now will affect them in the future, and can keep them from getting into college, or getting certain jobs.
HACG wants to encourage all of our youth to think before you act, be kind, and be a leader. We want our youth to do great things. HACG scholars and Teen Advisory Board are here to promote education and growth.
Reach out to your Resident Services Team for more information. 919-735-4226 ext. 1301
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Interested in joining the Teen Advisory Board or creating one in your neighborhood.
Contact Ayisha Razzak-Ellis
@ 919-735-4226 ext. 1406 or 919-750-6847
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Money Corner
$ start saving early; open a savings account
$ make a budget and stick to it
$ avoid impulse buys
$ do not get credit cards
$ never let anyone get anything in your name
$ do not cosign for anyone, ever
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NC Career and College Promise
The Career and College Promise (CCP) Program will save TIME and MONEY for qualified high school students. The program will allow qualified high school students to enroll in college courses -TUITION FREE- while still enrolled in high school classes. Qualified high school students can move forward on well-defined pathways in order to accelerate the completion of college credentials.
waynecc.edu/career-and-college-promise/
For additional information concerning Career and College Promise (CCP), contact Lorie Waller (919-739-6757) or Lisa Rich (919-739-6758).
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Upcoming Events
November 18th:
Partner with management to provide Thanksgiving meals (to-go) to seniors in West Haven.
December 9th:
Community Clean up
December 16th:
Provide Christmas 'goodie' bags to seniors in West Haven.
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"Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out." - Robert Collier
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Scholar Resources
The HACG Scholarship is currently available to graduating seniors that plan on pursuing their education at a trade school, community college or four-year university.
Students that meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to visit hacgscholar.org for more information or to download an application.
PHADA has implemented a scholarship program for graduating seniors who are preparing to enter college. PHADA will award three scholarships to deserving youth currently residing in a PHADA member agency. Apply now at phada.org
Students interested in attending an HBCU should register now to attend an upcoming virtual FB Live college tour at commonblackcollegeapp.com/collegefair.
The RBSP is dedicated to improving the lives of young African Americans and empowering and supporting them to achieve their potential within their chosen academic disciplines and into the workforce. RBSP awards 20 or more new scholarships in the amount of $40,000 each year ($10,000 per year for 4 years) to talented high school seniors.
Apply now at ronbrown.org
The FAFSA is a free online application for financial aid eligibility for college. It's used by schools to put together your federal student aid package for one year of college. This package can include grants for college, work-study, federal student loans, and even state and school financial aid. Apply now at fafsa.gov
Follow on social media for more upcoming events, scholarships, and resources!
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Parents w/Voices
"It's Never to Late"
Monday, December 14th @ 2pm
Dial In: +1 (646) 749-3112
Meeting ID: 700-727-229
HACG Logo
Parents w/Voices www.hacg.org
GoTo Meeting
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - ROSS Program
ROSS Program
The purpose of the Resident Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) Program is to provide opportunities for families living in public housing to identify and work towards life goals and be connected to services in their community. These services will enable participating families to increase earned income, reduce or eliminate the need for welfare assistance, make progress toward achieving economic independence and housing self-sufficiency.
Some of the service connections provided to families include: child care, transportation necessary to receive services, remedial education, CRC certification, financial management, soft skill training and any other services and resources appropriate to assist eligible families to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency.
Whether you need supportive services to live independently, want to further your education, or increase your employability skills, the ROSS program is here to help!
Contact 919.735.4226 ext 1301 to get started.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Resident Highlights
Congratulations to Jobs Plus participant, Ashley Brown for completing the Practical Nursing program at Wilson Community College! Ashley will be entering the healthcare industry at a time when her knowledge and skills couldn't be more needed. Best wishes on your future endeavors and thank you for having the heart to become an essential worker in our community!
Meet HACG's newest Licensed Cosmetologist, Cieara Thompson! Cieara overcame numerous obstacles to reach this goal and your Jobs Plus family is so proud of you for staying the course! Goldsboro and surrounding areas, look out for everything beautiful (lashes, nails, skin, and hair) when you book with Bella!
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - FSS Program
The FSS program seeks to help participants make measurable progress toward economic security so that they no longer need welfare programs, are less dependent on rental assistance, and are better able to plan for the future and achieve their goals.
There is a financial incentive for participants to increase their earnings in the form of an escrow savings account that increases as residents' earnings increase.The escrow account helps participants build savings that they can use to improve their quality of life and advance their personal goals.
Our current participants are averaging $1500 month in escrow savings, this could be you!
Our FSS program serves 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 at 919.735.4226 ext 1126.
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Job Opportunities
More than 500 job openings with the State of North Carolina. Which one is right for you? Make your next career move at nc.gov/jobs
View positions currently available within Wayne County Government at waynegov.com/Jobs.aspx
Multiple positions currently available within the City of Goldsboro see vacancies at goldsboronc.gov/
50+ positions available through Wayne County Public Schools visit waynecountyschools.org to view job openings!
Also Hiring:
Mt. Olive Pickle
Butterball
House of Raeford
Case Farms
JMA Placement
Walmart
For More Opportunities at Indeed.com
Contact Jobs Plus Staff for Assistance at (919) 735-4226 x 1406
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - From CEO
From the CEO
Can you believe it is almost the end of 2020?
I'm sure some of you are happy to see the year come to an end, so that a new one can begin. But many of you may be like me, thankful that this pandemic has allowed you to spend quality time with your family. It has also allowed our agency to rethink our daily operations, ensuring that our residents receive the support and assistance they need when our offices are closed.
This year has had its share of challenges, but I'm thankful for our staff and their dedication. They've allowed their creativity to flourish in these unprecedented times and this is why our agency continues to stand out in the housing industry.
I appreciate our residents for coming together and showing us just how strong communities can be. I'm happy to hear that some of you have started new businesses, graduated from various programming, and set out to reconstruct your lives.
During this holiday season I ask that you continue to practice the three W's, wash your hands, wait 6ft. apart, and wear a mask. Take this time to concentrate on connecting with your loved ones and setting attainable goals for the new year. We're rooting for your success!
I invite you to stay up to date on news and community resources by connecting with us on social media. Subscribe to receive these updates by email or text message on our website at hacg.org.
Enjoy the holiday season ahead and from all of us at HACG, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
ANTHONY GOODSON, JR.
Chief Executive Officer
The Community Connect - 2020 Issue 03 - Back Cover