By: Ryan Duey
Topics discussed during the Clay Counts Coalition monthly meeting on October 16th included: Community Garden, Immunizations, Bully Prevention, Drug Take Back, Courageous Conversation event, and more.
Nikki Burwell with the Health Department stated that they are willing to go to local businesses to provide immunizations. Any interested business can contact CCHD for further information. She also stated that the Washington Headliners 4-H group, Clay County Conservation team, and Clay Counts representatives began work on the Community Garden on October 13th. Donations of raised beds, soil, gravel, travel, and equipment have been made for the Garden. They also plan to have two Blessing Boxes near the Community Garden.
Arielle Kelly, DCCCA Prevention Specialist, stated that medication safety training is provided by them for free. They offer adult training and youth safety training, which can be done at schools. Kelly also stated that there are multiple drug disposal options in the state.
Matt Weller, Community Coordinator, stated that they received just under $2,300 in donations during Match Day, before matching funds. Most of the donated money will go towards providing food at various events throughout the year.
Nikki Burwell, CCHD, and Lori Martin, Coordinator, stated that Drug Take Back Day will be on Wednesday, October 23rd at the Health Department. They will take any medications during the event. Narcan will also be handed out after a short training. They will also offer free candy during the event.
CCCHS will host a “5th Quarter” event on December 5th, which will be a Karaoke night. Wakefield also hosts “9th Hours” after school.
Clay Counts was approached by Pawnee Mental Health to help host a Courageous Conversations event on National Suicide Survivors Day on November 23rd. Also on Wednesday, November 6th, a Courageous Conversation event will take place at the Clay Center United Methodist Church. Eric Martin will speak on addictions.
The Coalition will have a booth at Halloween Howl. Narcan will be available with training, along with chocolates. Nikki Burwell will also be giving flu shots to those who would like one.
Clay Count’s next meeting will be Wednesday, November 13th at noon at the Stuart Administrative Center.
