Blog Layout

KidSafe Newsletter 9-2-22



KidSafe Collaborative's Work In The Community 


KidSafe Collaborative is excited to be a part of the United Way of Northwest Vermont's Mental Health Initiative which is bringing together community members from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and sectors to improve access to mental health care resources and services. United Way’s action teams have recently started to come together to work on priority areas; KidSafe Collaborative is excited to have our Executive Director Sally Borden and Assistant Director Meghan Masterson serve as co-chairs of the Youth Mental Health Action Team, along with a third co-chair Marie Frietze.

For more information: https://unitedwaynwvt.org/mental-health-initiative


Diversity Equity and Inclusion


With our continued commitment to addressing systemic racism, the KidSafe Collaborative Board of Directors has established a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee. The Committee is responsible for fostering Board and organizational progress toward KidSafe’s goals concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion and ensuring those values are reflected in our mission. This committee will meet regularly to ensure this work remains a top priority for the organization. 



In the News: Back to School


1 in 5 Vermont children are food insecure; we are pleased to see this school year all students K-12 are eligible for free lunch and breakfast at school. Food insecurity was on the rise in Vermont during the pandemic, this is an important step forward in helping to support Vermont's children, youth, and families. Note: families still need to register to participate. Applications can be found through the link below. 


VT Agency of Education: APPLY FOR FREE AND REDUCED LUNCH

Looking Ahead: 2023 Awards Celebration


We are excited to announce the emcee of our 2023 KidSafe Collaborative Outstanding Service Awards will be Marlon Fisher. (April 2023 date TBD.) Marlon is a founding member of Dad Guild, an organization supporting dads’ role as parents (dadguild.org). He has worked with youth and families in Vermont and is a beloved well-respected comedian and storyteller. Keep an eye out for the 2023 awardee nomination forms coming soon! 


2022 VtSHARES Campaign


VtSHARES is an opportunity for State Employees to support KidSafe Collaborative via payroll deductions through the United Way of Northwest Vermont. Employees can choose to contribute to numerous Vermont nonprofit organizations that support the communities in which they live, work, play, and raise their families. This year's Campaign will be held from October 24th until November 4th.


vtshares.vermont.gov

By KidSafe Collaborative January 9, 2025
KidSafe Collaborative Community Response Team Specialist
By KidSafe Collaborative November 11, 2024
By KidSafe Collaborative June 6, 2024
This week it was announced that a federal lawsuit was filed against DCF Family Services regarding foster care licensing and a policy intended to protect LGBQT+ youth. It is widely recognized that LGBQT+ youth face higher rates of mental and physical health challenges compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and behaviors, and substance use. Affirming environments play a crucial role in the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth, including supporting their mental health, academic success, and overall quality of life. All children and youth in Vermont’s foster care system are entitled to be treated with respect and deserve to feel safe within their placements. KidSafe Collaborative believes in and supports policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of all children, youth and families in Vermont, especially within the child welfare system where they are particularly vulnerable. KidSafe Collaborative strongly supports and commends the Department for their unwavering commitment to ensuring that all foster placements are safe and affirming of every child's identity, including LGBTQ+ youth, and stands firmly behind their policy as it aligns with our mission to protect and advocate for the well-being of all children in our community.
Show More
Share by: