Tagged: pandemic

LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY ANNOUNCES MAY FAMILY SUPPORT MEETING: CELEBRATING THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR AND WELCOMING SUMMER

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society is thrilled to invite the public to its upcoming May Family Support Meeting on Thursday, May 16, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at 1525 Dean Forest Rd., Savannah, GA 31408, with attendees asked to use the side entrance labeled “100A” for access.

As the school year draws to a close and the warmth of summer approaches, LDSS is preparing to celebrate and welcome the opportunities that summer brings. The May meeting promises to be an engaging and informative event for families and caregivers in the community.

Attendees can anticipate an exciting lineup of guest speakers who will share valuable insights and information about summer programs and activities tailored for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. From recreational opportunities to educational programs, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about a variety of resources available to make the most out of the upcoming summer months.

The LDSS May Family Support Meeting offers a supportive environment for families to connect, share experiences, and access valuable resources. Whether attendees are seasoned members of the LDSS community or newcomers seeking support and information, all are welcome to participate in this enriching event.

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) supports people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership, support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every third Thursday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact. LDSS encourages the whole family to attend; children of all ages are welcome. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/

CONTACT
Joe Marchese
Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society
jmarchese@ldssga.org
912-213-9999

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

The Monthly Family Support Meeting by LDSS is April 18: Come Connect and Learn

(SAVANNAH, Ga) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) announces its upcoming Family Support meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 18th, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. The meeting will be held at 1525 Dean Forest Rd., Savannah, GA 31408. Attendees are kindly asked to utilize the side entrance labeled “100A”.

This monthly gathering is open to all families and individuals in the greater Savannah/Lowcountry area who have been touched by Down syndrome. Established in 2006, LDSS serves families across eight surrounding counties, providing vital support, resources, and a sense of community.

The meetings, held every third Thursday of the month, offer a valuable platform for families to connect, share experiences, and gain insights. Each session typically features a guest speaker, providing valuable information and perspectives, followed by dedicated social time for families to interact and build relationships. Children are enthusiastically encouraged to attend, fostering a supportive environment for all members of the family.

“We’re excited to welcome both familiar faces and newcomers to our upcoming meeting,” said Joe Marchese, President of LDSS. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together as a community.”

The LDSS Family Support meetings are free to attend, and no RSVP is required. Simply join us and be part of this vibrant community.

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) supports people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership, support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every third Thursday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact. LDSS encourages the whole family to attend; children of all ages are welcome. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/

CONTACT
Lindsey Barron
Construction Administrator
Joe Marchese
Marchese Construction, Inc
lindsey@marchese.construction
229-457-7974

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

Healthy Savannah Announces New Direction in Community Health Advocate Training on April 6

(SAVANNAH, GA) How do you reach out to people who are weary or wary of talking about vaccines with a message that helps build trust? That’s the challenge Healthy Savannah and the YMCA of Coastal Georgia plan to put to the test on Saturday, April 6.

The organizations are inviting community members interested in health equity to an in-person panel discussion and training event from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Vaden Automotive corporate office building at 12020 Abercorn in Savannah. Seating is limited, and those interested in attending are asked to register by emailing CHAadmin@healthysavannah.org. The discussion will also be streamed live on Healthy Savannah’s Facebook page.

The event is made possible through funding from a five-year Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Sept. 2023 to Healthy Savannah and the YMCA as the local grant administrators.

Starting at 9:30 a.m., healthcare professionals who work with Savannah-area priority populations daily will lead a panel discussion on the realities of access, awareness, and acceptance of adult vaccines including COVID-19 and flu.

The panel is expected to include school nurse Cecilia Kurtz, a public health nurse with the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System and president of the nurses’ guild ministry with First Bryan Baptist Church, and other medical professionals who will speak about the disparity that exists for many adults with health conditions who also might have a level of mistrust of medical intervention or government oversight.

“When it comes to their healthcare journey, the biggest deterrent for many people is mistrust,” said Dr. Elsie Smalls, operations manager. “We know we must listen to what they have to say so we can help them respond and communicate within their communities with more agency, better access, preparation, and greater understanding about their own health.”

Another challenge to be discussed is the misconception that the COVID-19 threat is over.

“No one wants to talk about COVID anymore even though the threat is still very real,” said Smalls. “We’re in a better situation, but we’re not out of the woods.”

According to the CDC, most people have developed a level of immunity to the virus because of prior infection or vaccination. In February, the organization loosened isolation recommendations, acknowledging how much the COVID-19 landscape has changed since the virus emerged four years ago, killing nearly 1.2 million people in the United States. [https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2024/02/13/covid-isolation-guidelines-cdc-change/]

The local REACH team is also hoping the event will provide a platform for people to talk openly about racial disparities in healthcare that were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the African American Wellness Project, Coronavirus has disproportionately impacted Black Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Indigenous people. The group says Black Americans are especially at risk, being 1.1 times more likely to get infected with COVID, 2.3 times more likely to be hospitalized and 1.7 times more likely to die from COVID-19 when compared with their white counterparts.[https://aawellnessproject.org/covid-19-and-black-america-2/?gclid=CjwKCAiAibeuBhAAEiwAiXBoJJPsj2HRfF-UvnKsFyeUn_KSSGp49HD450ehYSRS8nosKskPejPLEhoCThYQAvD_BwE]

While recent CDC metrics show a decline in hospital admissions and emergency department visits, they also indicate wastewater viral activity levels, which represent both symptomatic and asymptomatic infections, remain high but are trending downward in all regions except the South. [https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-02-14/as-u-s-covid-19-winter-wave-recedes-cdc-tracks-new-ba-2-87-1-variant]

“This downward trend should not suggest that we ignore the threat of COVID-19 but it should inspire a more practical approach, something similar to the guidelines we’re familiar with now on avoiding transmitting flu and RSV,” said Nichele Hoskins, communication manager. “That’s why we remain committed to training community health advocates who can relate to the health inequities that Black and Hispanic Savannahians experience.”

Following the panel session, Healthy Savannah and the “Y” will hold a 90-minute training session for those interested in becoming Community Health Advocates (CHAs). This will be the seventh cohort of the series but the first in-person training to be held since the program began in 2021. More than 70 members of the community have previously participated in six online training sessions.

One of the training program’s goals is to equip the advocates with information to help the uninsured or underinsured learn how to receive free or low-cost healthcare services for the prevention of illnesses from the flu and RSV to shingles and pneumonia. One such effort is the CDC’s Bridge Access Program, providing no-cost COVID-19 vaccines across Chatham County at the Coastal Health District’s Eisenhower Clinic, J. C. Lewis Primary Health Care and several CVS and Walgreens branches through the end of this year.

“In previous training sessions, we focused primarily on COVID-19 and flu vaccine access, awareness, and acceptance, particularly in Savannah’s Black and Hispanic communities; but now we’re broadening our efforts to encompass a wider range of health conditions that make people more vulnerable,” said Hoskins. “Our goal is to provide a more thorough understanding of current perceptions and offer feedback that could help shape public health interaction with people in priority communities.”

In addition to a $500 incentive those chosen to become Community Health Advocates will receive for performing community outreach activities after the training, participants can look forward to sharpening leadership and networking skills and learning about advocacy. Hoskins said many of the CHAs from past cohorts are also still out working in the community, often with civic and faith-based organizations that may offer free vaccines at health fairs and community events.
To learn more or register for the April 6 panel discussion and/or apply for the Community Health Advocate training program, please email CHAadmin@healthysavannah.org.

ABOUT THE YMCA OF COASTAL GEORGIA/HEALTHY SAVANNAH GRANT FOR RACIAL AND ETHNIC APPROACHES TO COMMUNITY HEALTH
In September 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded a second grant called Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) to Healthy Savannah and the YMCA of Coastal Georgia. $5.1 million in funding is being deployed over a five-year period to be utilized in an “upstream” approach to foster sustainable health equity among racial and ethnic minority populations in low-wealth neighborhoods in areas of nutrition, physical activity and the reduction of chronic diseases. The renewed funding enables work to continue which began under the initial, five-year, $3.4 million REACH grant awarded in 2018, and a supplemental grant awarded in 2021 to increase awareness and acceptance of COVID-19 and flu adult immunizations. Working with more than 200 community partners and organizations, the Savannah/Chatham County project team’s specific goals in implementing the new five-year grant include fostering physical activity by creating greater access to safe places to walk, run, bike and play; elevating the health and wellness of the community through policy, systems, and environmental change; and providing education and awareness regarding adult immunizations, especially as they relate to health disparities in chronic conditions of hypertension, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and obesity. The administrators will also continue to foster stronger connections between people and the healthcare providers who serve them by supporting awareness and use of the HERO Help Me database. In July 2022, Healthy Savannah received the CDC’s 2022 REACH Lark Galloway-Gilliam Award for Advancing Health Equity Challenge. The award recognizes extraordinary individuals and entities whose work has contributed to advancing health equity.
healthysavannah.org ymcaofcoastalga.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

American Public Health Association Recognizes Healthy Savannah for Community Health Advocate Program

(SAVANNAH, GA) COVID-19 vaccination rates for Black and Hispanic residents living in Savannah and Chatham County have risen measurably over the past 18 months. Now, Healthy Savannah is receiving national attention for its Community Health Advocate program developed to elevate vaccine awareness, access and acceptance among those priority populations.

The American Public Health Association (APHA), recently invited Healthy Savannah’s REACH team to speak at its national conference. The 150-year-old organization known for championing public health was particularly interested in learning about how Healthy Savannah developed and manages its CHA program, and how it may be influencing positive adult vaccination rates, particularly in Savannah’s low-wealth communities.

“We are so honored to have had such an outpouring of interest at the recent APHA conference about how we developed community training in tandem with outreach efforts in the faith community to increase vaccine awareness, acceptance and access,” said Dr. Elsie Smalls, Adult Immunization operations manager.

According to the Georgia Department of Health, Chatham County residents receiving at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine rose from 52.4% in October 2022 to 55.6% in December 2023. Vaccination rates for Black residents receiving at least one dose rose from 51.8% in June 2022 to 52.4% last October to current levels of 55.6%. For the Hispanic community, those receiving one dose have increased from 42.2% in June 2022 to 47% in October 2022 and now that rate is at 48%.

Members of Healthy Savannah’s REACH team were invited to speak in November at the APHA’S 2023 Annual Meeting & Expo in Atlanta where they explained why they developed the CHA program and how it has affected the community over the past couple of years. They also presented on how nurturing relationships among faith communities helped get research-backed information about the COVID vaccine as well as the vaccine itself out into the community.

“The roundtable session, entitled ‘Collaborate and Power Up,’ highlighted the amazing work of the 77 Community Health Advocates we have trained to provide information to increase awareness, access and acceptance of the COVID-19 vaccine in Chatham County,” said Nichele Hoskins, the Adult Immunization team’s communications manager. “Over 40 people attended the session and commented on how we partnered with community members to spread the word and address health inequities during the pandemic. Many said that a similar program would be useful in other communities across the country.”

During the presentation, Smalls and Hoskins explained how Healthy Savannah kept a close watch on Department of Health reports in the early days of the pandemic which showed vaccination rates for Black and Hispanic persons were lagging behind the general population. Combining survey results and feedback from 200 community partners, the organization’s leadership recognized the low numbers were likely influenced by historical skepticism of government programs among those in the Black community and language barriers among many in the Hispanic community.

Utilizing a supplemental grant funded by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC), Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) program, and with the support of the grant co-administrator the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, Healthy Savannah then developed the program that would employ metrics of listening to the community followed by a system of training, support and outreach efforts.

In the summer of 2021, Healthy Savannah invited community members to attend listening sessions to share their experiences, perspectives, and concerns about the pandemic, as well as vaccine efficacy and safety. This was followed in the fall by offering an initial training session to equip select members of the community with materials and guidance to engage in outreach activities within the Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino communities.

To date, Healthy Savannah has offered six training sessions and engaged 77 CHAs and vaccine providers to distribute evidence-based education, dispel disinformation, and offer pop-up vaccine clinics in diverse community locations, public events, and faith-based sites.

“The Community Engagement Spectrum approach has been proven to be effective in a variety of settings, recognizing the value of human assets that already exist within the community to move toward a healthier nation,” said Smalls.

Healthy Savannah has also equipped the CHAs to develop culturally and linguistically appropriate materials with compelling messages about prevention, symptoms, disease spread, treatment, and health resources available in the community.

“Through the REACH grant, we have supported 23 faith-based organizations through nearly $20,000 in mini grants to support COVID-vaccine awareness events since 2021,” Hoskins said.

The national stage at the 2023 APHA conference additionally offered a platform for Healthy Savannah to show other communities that a grass-roots effort can help lead to acceptance through increasing awareness and availability.

“We are especially pleased to congratulate Dr. Nandi Marshall on her appointment as incoming executive chair of APHA,” said Hoskins. “She has been an integral part of our local REACH team as a champion of breastfeeding education and awareness. Now, in this post-pandemic era, we are eager to work alongside her in the broadening field of adult immunization education to strengthen awareness, acceptance, and availability for the underinsured both here in Savannah and across our nation.”

Nandi A. Marshall, DrPH, MPH, CHES®, CLC, CDE®, is an associate professor in the Department of Health Policy and Community Health and the associate dean for Academic Affairs in the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health at Georgia Southern University. She is currently serving a four-year term on the APHA Executive Board, most recently appointed as the vice-chair. Additionally, she has served as the Science Board chair and co-chair of the Joint Policy Committee.

The APHA is known for championing the health of all people and all communities and for strengthening the public health profession. It is the only organization that combines a 150-year perspective, a broad-based member community and the ability to influence federal policy to improve the public’s health. The APHA also publishes the American Journal of Public Health and The Nation’s Health newspaper.

ABOUT THE YMCA OF COASTAL GEORGIA/HEALTHY SAVANNAH GRANT FOR RACIAL AND ETHNIC APPROACHES TO COMMUNITY HEALTH: In September 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded a second grant called Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) to Healthy Savannah and the YMCA of Coastal Georgia. $5.1 million in funding is being deployed over a five-year period to be utilized in an “upstream” approach to foster sustainable health equity among racial and ethnic minority populations in low-wealth neighborhoods in areas of nutrition, physical activity and the reduction of chronic diseases. The renewed funding enables work to continue which began under the initial, five-year, $3.4 million REACH grant awarded in 2018, and a supplemental grant awarded in 2021 to increase awareness and acceptance of COVID-19 and flu adult immunizations. Working with more than 200 community partners and organizations, the Savannah/Chatham County project team’s specific goals in implementing the new five-year grant include fostering physical activity by creating greater access to safe places to walk, run, bike and play; elevating the health and wellness of the community through policy, systems, and environmental change; and providing education and awareness regarding adult immunizations, especially as they relate to health disparities in chronic conditions of hypertension, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and obesity. The administrators will also continue to foster stronger connections between people and the healthcare providers who serve them by supporting awareness and use of the HERO Help Me database. In July 2022, Healthy Savannah received the CDC’s 2022 REACH Lark Galloway-Gilliam Award for Advancing Health Equity Challenge. The award recognizes extraordinary individuals and entities whose work has contributed to advancing health equity.

healthysavannah.org ymcaofcoastalga.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY GIVES REMINDER ABOUT DEADLINE FOR GEORGIA SAVINGS PLAN FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

(SAVANNAH, G.a.) The Georgia STABLE/Path2College Matching Scholarship’s deadline to apply is fast approaching with less than two months to apply.

The Georgia STABLE/Path2College Matching Scholarship initiative is designed to assist families in saving for their child’s future education expenses. If your child is 18 or under, you can apply for this program and receive matching funds of up to $2,500 when you make net contributions to the child’s Georgia STABLE account from July 1 through Dec. 31, 2023.

Every dollar saved in the child’s Georgia STABLE account can be matched and deposited into the child’s Path2College 529 savings plan, effectively doubling their savings. Matching Scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis for new or existing Georgia STABLE account owners who apply by entering the scholarship promotion code “MATCH2023” through their Georgia STABLE account.

Applying for the program is simple and can be done in a few easy steps:

Sign in or open the child’s Georgia STABLE account at https://georgiastable.com/gateway.

Enter the scholarship promotion code “MATCH2023” through the child’s Georgia STABLE account.

Make contributions to the child’s Georgia STABLE account.

We will match net contributions less any withdrawals made from July 1 through Dec. 31, 2023.

The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) urges you not to miss out on this chance to invest in your child’s education. If you have any questions, please contact Georgia STABLE at GA.ABLE@treasury.ga.gov or 404-656-2168 ext. 6. Additional information can be found on the Office of the State Treasurer’s website at GA STABLE/P2C Matching Scholarship | Office of the State Treasurer (georgia.gov).

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY:
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is a support group to benefit people with Down Syndrome and their families through local leadership in support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every 3rd Thursday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact with one another. LDSS encourages people to bring their children. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/

Lowcountry Down Syndrome Announces 18th Annual Buddy Walk and Car Raffle Drawing October 7

(SAVANNAH, Ga.) The 18th Annual Buddy Walk will take place in Forsyth Park in Savannah, Ga., Saturday, Oct 7, 2023. Lowcountry Down Syndrome will be partnering with the Savannah Philharmonic and sharing Forsyth Park for the day. Opening ceremonies will begin at 10:00 a.m., and then Buddy Walk starts at 10:30 a.m. The Family Fun event will be from 11:00am-2:00pm and will kick off with the car raffle drawing and announcement of the raffle winner.

Participants will walk a mile around Forsyth Park. This event is a time of celebration and community, raising support and awareness for those with Down syndrome. Following the Buddy Walk, the Savannah Philharmonic will be hosting its annual Phil the Park concert that evening.

Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society is partnering with Grainger Honda and Grainger Nissan of Savannah to sell tickets at $100 each for a chance to win a new SUV from Grainger Honda & Grainger Nissan. Only 1,000 tickets will be sold and the winner will choose between a 2023 Nissan Rogue and a 2023 Honda CRV. Both cars are valued at $33,000. All fees including tax, tag, and title will be paid by Grainger Honda & Grainger Nissan. You can buy your raffle tickets here: https://e.givesmart.com/events/ubQ/i/_Auction/mfyC/

The money raised at the Buddy Walk goes towards Camp Buddy, two summer camps in Effingham and Chatham to help students retain their skills over the summer break. It also goes towards LDSS’s monthly Family Support meetings, new parent packets and educational opportunities for local families and advocates.

Registration for Buddy Walk 2023 is $15. Those who register will also receive a Buddy Walk T-shirt. When registering, you can either join a team or create your own. https://fundraise.givesmart.com/e/bSk78Q?vid=zrk5n

Business owners can have their business name shown on the Buddy Walk T-shirt by donating $500, or their logo for $1000. There are four tiers of sponsorships to choose from, starting at $500. Informational booths are also available at the event for sponsorships and groups.

Volunteers are needed to help with the event in all aspects. Please inquire with John and Candy Bogardus for more information about becoming a sponsor or volunteering at ldssgabuddywalk@gmail.com or 912-663-8573.

The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). The vision statement of this organization is to create “a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities.”

The NDSS created the Buddy Walk as part of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month in 1995. The first Buddy Walk in Savannah took place in 2006, shortly after the LDSS was founded. Nearly 1600 people were brought to Forsyth Park in Savannah on this first outing. Growing during subsequent years, over 5000 people would attend annually until Covid-19 precautions led to virtual walks in lieu of gathering at Forsyth Park in 2020 and 2021.

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY:
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is a support group to benefit people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership in support, outreach, education, and advocacy. LDSS holds a monthly support meeting on the third Thursday of the month at 6:30 at 1525 Dean Forest Road in Savannah, GA. There is an informational speaker and light refreshments. The event is also live-streamed. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/

CONTACT
John and Candy Bogardus
Buddy Walk Co-Chairs
Cell: 912-663-8573
Fax: 912-728-5247
ldssgabuddywalk@gmail.com

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations, Inc
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

 

Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society partnering with Sunshine Pottery to hold a monthly family support meeting August 17

(SAVANNAH, GA) Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society is partnering with Sunshine Pottery to hold the monthly family support meeting Thursday, August 17 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The event will be held in the Banquet Room located at 1525 Dean Forest Rd., Savannah, GA 31408. Please enter through the side entrance labeled “100A.”

Sunshine Pottery is donating a variety of pottery pieces to be painted during Thursday’s meeting. LDSS plans to auction the one-of-a-kind artwork at the 2024 Night of Champions. A “Certificate of Authenticity” will be created and presented with the pottery to the winning bidder for each piece sold. The certificate will include a photo of the child who painted the piece and their story.

Virtual attendees will be able to ask questions and have them answered in real-time by LDSS leaders and the guest speaker.

LDSS President Joe Marchese encourages all members to reach out to a fellow LDSS family they haven’t seen in a while and invite them to this month’s meeting.

“We’ve got lots of things to talk about and introduce to our families this month,” said Marchese. “LDSS will be involved in some awesome events and activities in the coming months and we want your support and participation so make sure to mark your calendars so you won’t miss out!”

If you’d like to have your child paint a piece of pottery, please email Lindsey at lbarron@ldssga.org.
Limited spaces are available.

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) supports people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership, support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every third Thursday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact. LDSS encourages the whole family to attend; children of all ages are welcome. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/.

CONTACT
Joe Marchese
Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society
jmarchese@ldssga.org
912-213-9999

MEDIA CONTACT
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
Marjorie Young
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com\

 

Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society to hold monthly family support meeting July 20

Dance Savannah Elite presents new program offering a competitive dance team for differently abled kids.

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) will be holding its July family support meeting. New and former members are invited to attend. Mr. Darrell Jordan from Dance Savannah Elite will talk about a new program offering a competitive dance team for differently abled kids. He will talk about how the LDSS members can get involved.

This month’s meeting will be Thursday, July 20 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Banquet Room located at 1525 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, GA 31408. Please enter through the side entrance labeled “100A.” Those who are unable to attend in person can log on to the Live stream via the LDSS Facebook page at 6:30 p.m. on the 20th. Virtual attendees will be able to ask questions and have them answered in real time by LDSS leaders and the guest speaker.

LDSS President Joe Marchese encourages all members to reach out to a fellow LDSS family they haven’t seen in a while and invite them to this month’s meeting.

“We’ve got lots of things to talk about and introduce to our families this month,” said Marchese. “LDSS will be involved in some awesome events and activities in the coming months and we want your support and participation so make sure to mark your calendars so you won’t miss out!”

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) supports people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership, support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every third Thursday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact. LDSS encourages the whole family to attend; children of all ages are welcome. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/.

CONTACT
Joe Marchese
Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society
jmarchese@ldssga.org
912-213-9999

MEDIA CONTACT
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
Marjorie Young
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

Paula Kreissler to speak at Monthly Lowcountry Down Syndrome Meeting March 16

(SAVANNAH, GA) Paula Kreissler, executive director of Healthy Savannah and the program manager for the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) grant awarded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; will speak at the monthly meeting of the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) on ways to get out, get active and get healthy.

LDSS’ Family Support meeting will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 16 in the banquet room at Joe Marchese Construction located at 1525 Dean Forest Rd., Savannah, GA 31408. Please enter through the side entrance labeled “100A”.

Kreissler volunteered with Healthy Savannah from its launch in 2007, before accepting her current position. She graduated from Concordia University, is a licensed CPA, earned an MBA in Sustainable Business from Marylhurst University in 2012 and is a 2016 graduate of Leadership Southeast Georgia. The first 25 years of her career were spent primarily in Operations Management at FedEx.

In 2008, Kreissler received the Top Ten Working Women’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award from A Working Women In Need (AWWIN). The business she founded in 2005, Wound Care Clinic -ESU, won the 2008 Small Business of the Year Award from the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2015, Kreissler was recognized by the United Way Women’s Legacy Council with a “Women Who Rule” award.

Accompanying Kreissler at the meeting will be Armand Turner, Physical Activity Program Manager with the (REACH) grant. Turner is a Gary, Indiana, native and a graduate of Indiana University with a BS in Recreation. Turner interned at the Denver Parks and Recreation Department in 2014. A year later he worked at Texas Parks Recreation Department in Southlake and Grapevine, Texas. Most recently, Turner was the Recreation Coordinator at Albany State University in 2016.“Healthy Savannah and its 200+ public and private partners are making an impact by collaborating around policy, systems, and environmental change through the lens of health equity,” said Kreissler. “The organization has collectively been at the table to educate policy influencers and policymakers on how they can help make the healthy choice the easy choice.”

Since the creation of Healthy Savannah in 2007, numerous studies have shown a positive upturn in health outcomes and healthy lifestyles as a result of new policies being implemented like Smoke-Free Air, School Wellness Policy, School Design Guidelines, Complete Streets Ordinance, Community Garden Policy and the Farm Truck Ordinance.

In July 2022, Healthy Savannah received the organizational REACH Lark Galloway-Gilliam Award for Advancing Health Equity [https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/state-local-programs/reach/reach-lark-award/index.html]. The award recognizes the organization’s efforts to reduce health disparities among African American and Hispanic/Latino American residents with low incomes in Chatham County. Those initiatives include Active People, Healthy Savannah; Farm Truck 912; Healthy Checkout Initiative and #HEALTHY WALKS.

LDSS will be partnering with Healthy Savannah on Tuesday, March 21 to celebrate the three-year anniversary of #HEALTHY WALKS and to commemorate World Down Syndrome Day with a 2-mile walk on the Truman Linear Trail. Participants will meet up at 7:30 a.m. in the parking area at Scarborough Sports Complex, Skidaway at Bona Bella Ave.

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is a support group to benefit people with Down Syndrome and their families through local leadership in support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every 3rd Thursday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact with one another. LDSS encourages people to bring their children. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/

ABOUT THE YMCA OF COASTAL GEORGIA/HEALTHY SAVANNAH GRANT FOR RACIAL AND ETHNIC APPROACHES TO COMMUNITY HEALTH: In September 2018, Healthy Savannah and the YMCA of Coastal Georgia were awarded a five-year, $3.4 million grant called Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health. Awarded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the funding is being deployed in an “upstream” approach by the Savannah/Chatham County project team to foster sustainable health equity among Black residents in low-wealth neighborhoods. The aim of the local project, called Healthy Opportunities Powering Equity, or HOPE, is to increase the availability of high-quality nutrition; promote physical activity through creating greater access to safe places to walk, run, bike and play; and foster stronger connections between people and the healthcare providers who serve them. Working with more than 200 community partners and organizations, the team is committed to elevating the health and wellness of the community through policy, systems, and environmental change. In July 2022, Healthy Savannah received the CDC’s 2022 REACH Lark Galloway-Gilliam Award for Advancing Health Equity Challenge. The award recognizes extraordinary individuals and entities whose work has contributed to advancing health equity.

healthysavannah.org ymcaofcoastalga.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME IN LOVING MOOD FOR FEBRUARY MONTHLY MEETING

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) will be celebrating Happy Valentine’s all month, including inviting new and former members to its upcoming monthly meeting.

LDSS

“Isn’t it awesome that we get a whole month specifically dedicated to showing those around us how much we love and appreciate them,” said LDSS President Joe Marchese. “It’s a reminder with the start of a new year to make an extra effort to show our friends, family, and the folks we pass by in the store they are special, important and cherished!”

This month’s meeting will be Thursday, Feb. 16th from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Banquet Room located at 1525 Dean Forest Road, Savannah, GA 31408. Please enter through the side entrance labeled “100A”. Those who are unable to attend in person can log on to the Live stream via the LDSS Facebook page at 6:30 p.m. on the 16th.

Marchese encourages all members to reach out to a fellow LDSS family they haven’t seen in a while and invite them to this month’s meeting.

“We’ve got lots of things to talk about and introduce to our families this month,” said Marchese. “LDSS will be involved in some awesome events and activities in the coming months and we want your support and participation so make sure to mark your calendars so you won’t miss out!”

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) supports people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership, support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every third Thursday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact. LDSS encourages the whole family to attend; children of all ages are welcome. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/

CONTACT
Joe Marchese
Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society
jmarchese@ldssga.org
912-213-9999

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY ANNOUNCES SPEAKER BRENDAN FERRARA FOR DEC 15 MEETING AND HOLIDAY SOCIAL

(SAVANNAH, GA) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) will be celebrating the holidays at its upcoming Holiday Social and opening its doors to members of the public who would like to join the charitable organization.

LDSS’ family support meeting will be Thursday, Dec. 15th, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the banquet room of Joe Marchese Commercial Construction, located at 1525 Dean Forest Road in Savannah. Attendees are asked to please enter through the side entrance labeled “100A”.

Guest speaker Brendan Ferrara, CEO and President from EmployAbility, will discuss ways to prepare young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for competitive employment and community integration.

LDSS offers support to people with Down syndrome and their families through advocacy, education and promoting acceptance and inclusion. The event will be livestreamed on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ldssga

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY:
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is a support group to benefit people with Down Syndrome and their families through local leadership in support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every 4th Tuesday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact with one another. LDSS encourages people to bring their children. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade PR
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com
912.844.9990

PET ADOPTIONS GRANTS FOR DOWN SYNDROME COMMUNITY

(SAVANNAH, GA) Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society is promoting a program that helps pay for pet adoptions for members of the Down syndrome community.

PetScreening for Down syndrome (PS4Ds). PS4Ds is a philanthropic grant program that offers financial assistance to individuals with Down syndrome who want to adopt a rescue pet for companionship. Each recipient is granted $750 – $1,000, which is used for all pet expenses including adoption fees, veterinary care, preventative health products, monthly food delivery and more.

The PS4Ds team provides advice and support throughout the entire adoption process to ensure recipients are prepared and ready for their new journey.

The program currently has 7 grants available. For additional information including how to apply, visit ps4ds.petscreening.com.

To learn more about recipients, connect with PS4Ds on Facebook or Instagram.

CONTACT
Melissa Abramson
Philanthropic Program Manager
ps4ds@petscreening.com

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY:
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is a support group to benefit people with Down Syndrome and their families through local leadership in support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every 4th Tuesday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact with one another. LDSS encourages people to bring their children. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society.
For more information about LDSS, visit ldssga.org.

ABOUT PETSCREENING
PetScreening™ helps housing providers manage residents’ pets and assistance animals for free while generating opportunities for pet-related revenue. The digital screening platform standardizes risk-assessment for household pets by providing a digital Pet Profile and FIDO Score for each pet screened. PetScreening streamlines the assistance animal accommodation request review process while following HUD guidelines, and it helps limit unauthorized pets. For more information, visit www.petscreening.com.

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade PR
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com
912.844.9990

Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society Announces Title Sponsor for Buddy Walk, Zack’s Quick Stop

(SAVANNAH, GA) – The Buddy Walk, a Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society’s fundraiser and community support event and celebration for those impacted by Down syndrome, has a new title sponsor this year – Zack’s Quick Stop at 2701 Ogeechee Road in Savannah.

The event returns to Savannah on Saturday, Oct. 1, after several years absence due to the pandemic. Friends, family members, and other supporters of those impacted by Down syndrome will gather at Forsyth Park for the family-friendly walk, which raises money for Camp Buddy, a summer camp for those with Down syndrome.

Zack’s Quick Stop may be new as an official supporter, but the store has been supporting those with Down syndrome since it opened in 2017. Ziad Abdallah, the store owner, named the store for one of his sons, Zack, who has Down syndrome. The blue-and-yellow ribbon symbol used by the LDSS is featured on the store sign, and information on Down syndrome is available inside the store, which contributes regularly to Down syndrome causes. Family members describe the store, located near Ogeechee Road’s intersection with Victory Drive, as more than a gas station and convenience store but also a neighborhood store with an established clientele.

Muhammad Abdallah, Zack’s brother, says “We are excited to see that there is a day to celebrate everybody with Down syndrome.”

This will be Savannah’s seventeenth Buddy Walk. Opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m., and the Buddy Walk starts at 10:30 a.m. Participants will walk a mile around Forsyth Park. This event is a time of celebration and community, raising support and awareness for those with Down syndrome. The money raised at the Buddy Walk – where registration is $15 – goes toward Camp Buddy, a pair of summer camps in Effingham and Chatham counties to help students with Down syndrome retain their skills over the summer break. It also goes towards new parent packets and educational opportunities for local families and advocates.

Registrants who pay the $15 fee will not only get to participate but will also receive a Buddy Walk T-shirt. When registering, you can either join a team or create your own. https://www.classy.org/event/lowcountry-down-syndrome-society-2022-live-in-forsyth-park/e421222

There are four tiers of sponsorships to choose from, starting at $700. Businesses can still sponsor at all levels. Informational booths are also available at the event for sponsorships and groups. Volunteers are needed to help with the event in all aspects. Please inquire with John and Candy Bogardus for more information about becoming a sponsor or volunteering.

The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). The vision statement of this organization is to create “a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities.”

The NDSS created the Buddy Walk as part of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month in 1995. The first Buddy Walk in Savannah took place in 2006, shortly after the LDSS was founded. Nearly 1600 people were brought to the Forsyth Park in Savannah on this first outing. Growing during subsequent years, over 5000 people would attend annually until Covid-19 precautions led to virtual walks in lieu of gathering at Forsyth Park in 2020 and 2021.

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY:
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) is a support group to benefit people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership in support, outreach, education and advocacy. LDSS holds a monthly support meetings on the third Thursday of the month at 6:30 at 1525 Dean Forest road in Savannah, GA. There is an informational speaker and light refreshments. The event is also live streamed. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit http://www.ldssga.org/

CONTACT
John and Candy Bogardus
Buddy Walk Co-Chairs
Cell: 912-663-8573
Fax: 912-728-5247
ldssgabuddywalk@gmail.com

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations, Inc
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

‘Living Well Together’ Course Aims to Help Families with Disabled Children

(SAVANNAH, Ga.) The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society wants to share with its member families and other families raising children with developmental or physical challenges news about a special 10-week program intended to help such families prepare for transition while setting, and reaching goals for a healthy lifestyle.

The Living Well Together program is a 10-week program – five-weekend sessions spread out from January through March, plus an orientation – that is being offered by Georgia Southern University’s Center for Rehabilitation and Independent Living. This peer-led health promotion program aims to help families caring for a child with a disability prepare for life’s transitions. As part of that, the whole family is encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle, and this program teaches how to set realistic goals and achieve them in that regard.

“Preparing for the future is a particular challenge for our families, and we are excited that Georgia Southern is making this opportunity available not only to families affected by Down syndrome but those facing other challenges as well,” said Joe Marchese of LDSS. “These sessions are peer-led and should provide a variety of solid and useful information. Parents will be paired with a trained peer mentor, and the workshops will have separate activities for parents and children based on the curriculum.”

The sessions will be held on GSU’s Armstrong Campus in Savannah, with orientation on Jan. 8, and sessions on Jan. 22, Feb. 5, Feb. 19, March 5 and March 12. The program is free to families enrolled in any of the various family support services available in the region. B&B Care Services based in Springfield, Pineland Behavioral Health/Developmental Disabilities in eight southeastern Georgia counties, and Easter Seals, to name a few.

To learn more, consult the Center for Rehabilitation and Independent Living’s Facebook page or this website: https://chp.georgiasouthern.edu/cril/living-well-together-program/ .

ABOUT THE LOWCOUNTRY DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY
The Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS) supports people with Down syndrome and their families through local leadership, support, outreach, education and advocacy. Meetings are held every fourth Tuesday of the month, typically with a guest speaker and social time for families to meet and interact. LDSS encourages the whole family to attend; children of all ages are welcome. LDSS is an affiliate of the National Down Syndrome Society. For more information about LDSS, visit ldssga.org

CONTACT
Joe Marchese
Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society
joe@marchese.construction
912-213-9999

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
912-844-9990
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

Government and Community Partners Launch “Know the Facts + Get your Vax” Campaign

Anyone living in Chatham County can call 311 for free COVID-19 Vax assistance beginning Wednesday, April 14. http://www.covidvaxdial311.com

SAVANNAH, GA, April 13, 2021- A new program is launching in Savannah and Chatham County to help those who have not yet received a COVID-19 vaccine become more confident regarding the safety of the vaccine, know how to obtain a vaccine and connect to transportation options.

Chatham County, the City of Savannah, Gulfstream Aerospace and the Department of Public Health – Coastal Health District have joined forces with Hospice Savannah, Healthy Savannah and United Way of the Coastal Empire to offer this free assistance to Coastal area residents, in particular those who may have concerns about the vaccine.

Anyone living in Chatham County can call 311 for free COVID-19 Vax assistance beginning Wednesday, April 14. http://www.covidvaxdial311.com

Representatives of the City of Savannah’s 311 helplines will be standing by to answer questions callers may have about vaccines and how they can receive one. They can assist with setting up a vaccine appointment and arranging free transportation to the state’s Mass Vaccination site at Gulfstream.
There is no charge for this assistance or for the vaccine itself.

The newly-opened vaccination site at Armstrong Center at 13040 Abercorn St. in Savannah is accepting walk-ins as well as appointments and is provided in collaboration Gulfstream, Georgia Southern University and SouthCoast Health. The site will be open for vaccinations on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-5 p.m.

“In this pandemic crisis, community partners have come together to make sure that all residents have the opportunity to get vaccinated,” said Paula Kreissler, Executive Director of Healthy Savannah and the Program Coordinator for Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health grant awarded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “This collaborative effort will ensure that all folks have access to a vaccine and can get a free ride to a vaccine site if they don’t have transportation.”

Hospice Savannah recently moved its vaccine clinic location to the Savannah Civic Center to be more convenient and accessible for a greater number of citizens. Located at 301 W. Oglethorpe Avenue, the Civic Center is open for walk-up vaccines Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., in addition to the COVID-19 testing it now offers. The State’s mass vaccination site at Gulfstream is open five days a week from Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

ABOUT Know the facts + Get your vax – is a program designed to encourage acceptance of the vaccine and connect with citizens in Savannah and Chatham County who need assistance with making a COVID-19 vaccine appointment and getting to that appointment. By calling 311, residents can receive this assistance at no charge. The program is sponsored by the City of Savannah, Chatham County, Gulfstream Aerospace, Healthy Savannah, Georgia Department of Public Health – Coastal Health District, Hospice Savannah and the United Way of the Coastal Empire. http://www.covidvaxdial311.com

ABOUT HEALTHY SAVANNAH
Healthy Savannah, a 501C (3) public charity is a public/private coalition of over 200 businesses, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, schools, neighborhood organizations, and healthcare and government agencies, It began as an initiative of City of Savannah Mayor Otis Johnson, formed in 2007. Healthy Savannah leads and supports a culture of health in the Savannah area by creating an environment that makes a healthy choice the easy choice; building a collaborative network that identifies and shares resources; collecting and disseminating information, promoting best practices and implementing innovative programs, and advocating for effective policies. Since its inception, this innovative, cross-sector collaboration has vastly benefited the community as evidenced by numerous multi-agency projects, grants and policy initiatives that have emerged from the initiative to create and sustain a Healthy Savannah. http://www.healthysavannah.org

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young, CEO
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
http://www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com

AdMoEr’s App Uses Additional Layers to Prevent Discrimination on Vaccine Status

(SAVANNAH, GA) AdMoEr, an innovative new app that lets people track the safety of their surroundings when it comes to infectious diseases like COVID-19, is the only existing app that avoids discriminating against non-vaccinated individuals while still providing full information on infection risk. That key distinction places the Savannah-based company’s product in a strong position as governments across the globe – including here in the U.S. – grapple with how to develop digital “passports” displaying COVID vaccine status.

“Currently AdMoER, by integrating a layer for the vaccinated individuals but also another one indicating infection risk for non-vaccinated people, is the only existing application avoiding discrimination between vaccinated and not vaccinated individuals, especially with respect to access in crowded venues, such as live concerts and sporting events,” said Company Founder, Dragos Stanescu.

Why does this matter? Inequities in the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines, as well as other factors contributing to lower vaccination rates, mean that a person’s non-vaccinated status could be used against them unfairly. The app — headquartered in Savannah but with development roots in Europe — is being developed for global use and since poorer countries so far have had limited access to vaccine supplies, this non-discriminatory feature is essential.

The AdMoEr mobile app, now in Beta testing, is designed to help protect the most vulnerable among us from contagions like COVID-19 and to get daily life back to pre-pandemic normalcy more quickly — all without compromising personal privacy. The app works by compiling information on the health status of participating individuals and sharing it without identification. Think of it as crowd-sourcing information on the contagious disease status of participants. The app’s map feature will show icons for users identified as healthy (shown by a green icon) through a range of escalating statuses that reaches red for those who have tested positive for an infectious disease.

AdMoEr chose Savannah as a location because of the small but actively growing technology presence represented by the Savannah Logistics Technology Corridor. Company founder Dragos Stanescu developed the app in his native Romania, but chose to locate the company in the U.S., where he has experience in the banking industry.

ABOUT AdMoEr
AdMoEr is a multinational endeavor based in Savannah, Georgia. Funded by European Venture Capitalists and Angels, the project offers alternatives to traditional testing and contract tracing by providing a wearable device for users that maintains their privacy while allowing public health authorities to monitor any potential signs and symptoms of public health issues. The system is designed to encourage best practices for prevention and will facilitate rapid reaction to emergency situations while ensuring 100% privacy for the user. For more information, contact Keith Fletcher at (912) 328-9440. http://admoer.com/

Media Advisory: AdMoER launches Beta testing of contagion-tracking app

INTERNATIONAL PRESS CONFERENCE, MARCH 3, 10AM Eastern Standard Time, USA

AdMoER Inc. Announces Initial Testing of Health App and an Initiative to Assist Underserved Communities Around the World.

(SAVANNAH, GA) Officials with the Savannah-based AdMoER Inc., a unique health app system which will help protect the most vulnerable among us from contagions like COVID-19 and which will speed up daily life’s return to pre-pandemic normal, will roll out Beta testing in a media event planned for March 3.

Company officials, testing participants and local dignitaries are expected to attend.

Mayor Van Johnson is confirmed to be at the press conference.

Multiple European news outlets:
•Romania’s Ziarul Financiar (Finance Journal), that country’s leading financial newspaper
•Wall Street Journal Romania;
•Gandul.info
•Profit.ro, an online financial broadcasting network;
and possibly reporters from other countries – are expected to join the event remotely, reflecting the international roots of AdMoER Inc. developer, which has chosen to locate in Savannah.

WHERE:
YMCA
6400 Habersham St.
Savannah, GA 31405

WHEN: Wednesday, March 3, 10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time, USA

WHO: Dragos Stanescu, CEO, Dr. Mugur Stancu, CMO- Chief Medical Officer, a newly launched Savannah-based company with European roots, along with other officials and Beta testing participants, plus Paula Kreissler Executive Director of Healthy Savannah, and Project Director CDC Racial & Ethnic Approaches to Community Health Grant and Keith Fletcher, board member.

WHAT: Expect a thorough explanation of the new technology, on how it protects privacy of participants, and an opportunity to ask questions. Additionally, Fletcher will introduce AdMoER Inc.’s equity policy, which includes a commitment to free-of-charge services to individuals and clinics in underserved communities across the United States and internationally in countries struggling with extreme poverty.

“We hope we will get the support and partnership of the federal, state and local institutions taking care of the health of the American people and as well of the application store providers to be able to deliver to those in need and save countless lives” Fletcher said. The company will also actively seek the support of international institutions and global mobile operators and application vendors in order to carry out its plans, he said.

AdMoER is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86566261815

Meeting ID: 865 6626 1815
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WALL STREET JOURNAL ROMANIA:
https://www.wall-street.ro/articol/IT-C-Tehnologie/266328/gps-pentru-coronavirus-ce-aplicatie-au-gandit-doi-romani-pentru-limitarea-raspandirii-covid.html  

CONTACT
AdMoER.com
info@AdMoer.com

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc. at 912-844-9990.

Homestead Harvest Giveaway Jan 30: Fighting hunger one harvest at a time. Center Parc Credit Union Sponsors Harvest Giveaway

(GARDEN CITY, GA) The Garden City Homestead Association’s community garden will share its third harvest with the community at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, in a program that will include food demonstrations and education sessions. This is one of eight community gardens Center Parc Credit Union has awarded funding within the past six months.

The Garden City public is invited to share in a winter vegetable harvest that includes collards, cabbage, broccoli, and kale at the event, to be held at the garden, 4115 Second St. in Garden City. Representatives from the Garden City City Council are among those expected to attend.

Dorothy Dupree, MS, RD, LD, who is the school food nutrition coordinator and registered dietician with Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools, will use produce from the garden to showcase how to roast broccoli and make a kale salad.Leslie Weaver will provide healthy recipes, food safety tips and a demonstration of how to wash produce properly. Weaver is the family and consumer science agent for the University of Georgia’s Chatham County Extension program.

Belinda Baptiste, owner of Unforgettable Bakery, will be on hand to demonstrate “How Not to Kill Your Greens,” a presentation about how to keep nutrients in without sacrificing flavor.

Local families have been concerned about getting food on their tables in the past year, and have been reaching out to local organizations for help. During the first 11 months of 2020, food assistance was the top service people sought using the online health and social services network HeroHelpMe.com, with 627 searches. Another 97 searches were for Farm Truck 912’s Full Plate Program, demonstrating food security concerns undoubtedly exacerbated by COVID-19.

“Between January and November, herohelpme.com had 8,618 visits with 6,384 searches. The top five searches were for food assistance, rent and utility assistance, coronavirus help, housing and childcare,” said Ella Williamson, Director, St. Joseph’s/Candler African-American Health Center and lead developer of the Hero database.

Further illustrating community need, since its launch in 2016, the YMCA’s Fresh Express program has distributed just over 39,000 pounds of fresh food to an average of 200 people a month in Savannah. Fresh Express, a YMCA of Coastal Georgia program operating in partnership with Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia, holds monthly free produce and bread distributions at two locations. The program dates to 2016, in the wake of a study that found 17.6 percent of Chatham County’s population and 21.8 percent of the county’s children are considered food-insecure. For more information, visit https://ymcaofcoastalga.org/freshexpress.

The Garden City Homestead Association garden is one of eight community gardens throughout Chatham County to which Center Parc Credit Union donated approximately $17,500 in sponsorship dollars throughout 2020. Representatives of the non-profit financial institution will be on hand for Saturday’s program. Center Parc also plans to launch its own community garden this year.

“Community gardens are becoming increasingly popular and can help communities increase their supply of fresh, healthy produce,” said Donna Williams, community development liaison for Center Parc Credit Union. “We embraced the concept even before the COVID-19 outbreak, and the pandemic has only made this project more important.”

In addition to increasing access to fresh food, community gardens beautify neighborhoods, encourage physical activity and educate the public about nutrition, Williams said.

For more information about supporting the garden as a volunteer or through donations, visit the Garden City Homestead Association Facebook page.

ABOUT CENTER PARC CREDIT UNION
Center Parc Credit Union is a division of APCU, the oldest credit union in the state of Georgia. In September 2020 two new Center Parc Credit Union locations opened in the Savannah area: at the Pooler Walmart, 160 Pooler Parkway, and the Savannah Walmart, 6000 Ogeechee Road. The company is also planning to open a free-standing flagship branch in Savannah in 2021. An ongoing community gardens program was launched in August 2020. The member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative is dedicated to helping hardworking people save money and prosper. Each member’s funds are insured for up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). For more information, call 800-849-8431, email info@centerparc.org or visit online at http://www.centerparc.org

CONTACT
Donna Williams
Community Development Liaison
Center Parc Credit Union
dwilliams@centerparc.org
http://www.centerparc.org

MEDIA CONTACT
Marjorie Young
Carriage Trade Public Relations® Inc.
912.844.9990
http://www.carriagetradepr.com
marjorie@carriagetradepr.com