Get Healthy Carson City: Support Advocates' 'Share Your Holiday Food Drive'

This column addresses topics related to the health of our community.

Q: What is the role of Advocates to End Domestic Violence?

A: Advocates to End Domestic Violence (AEDV) is a private nonprofit organization in Carson City that provides services designed to protect and support battered men and women and their children. Their mission is to provide a safe, supportive environment where domestic violence victims can re-examine their view of themselves and work towards a violence-free future. AEDV accepts men and women and encourages them to attain positive growth toward independence and self-sufficiency.

Here are a few impressive facts about AEDV you probably do not know:

AEDV is the largest domestic violence shelter in Northern Nevada, serving Carson City and the surrounding rural counties.

In most cases, domestic violence shelters offer support for a few weeks. AEDV shelters for 5 months.

"Anything less than that is just a band aid," says Executive Director Lisa Lee. "It takes a few days just to settle in and get focused. On about the third day, we begin to provide resources and support so that they can figure out their intentions and plan their future."

The age range of women who have been supported by AEDV is 16 to 86.

AEDV has transitional housing for women who are working to become self-sufficient. Residents must pay rent and learn how to survive independently. Transitional housing lasts up to 12 months.

Last year, AEDV provided 7,000 nights of shelter. A night of shelter is defined as "a head in a bed," counting both adults and children.

AEDV helps battered men, too, in separate shelters. Men also attend support groups. Approximately 30 percent of temporary protective orders are issued to men.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

If you suspect that someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, the best thing you can do is provide them with information. The AEDV web address is www.aedv.org and the 24-7 hotline is 883-7654.

SHARE YOUR HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE

The AEDV annual food drive, held each December in conjunction with KTVN-Channel 2 and the Northern Nevada Food Bank, solicits non-perishable food and non-food items for the AEDV shelter. "A successful drive," says Lisa, "yields enough food and supplies to last an entire year." Presently, the need is especially urgent because numbers at AEDV are up 30 percent from two years ago.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

"Canned protein is especially appreciated," said Lisa. That includes items such as canned fish, beans, poultry and meat. The shelter also needs other canned food, dry food, cosmetic items like shampoo, deodorant and soap; paper goods like towels, toilet paper and diapers; and household items such as laundry detergent, dryer sheets and cleaning products. All donations assist with the operation of the shelter. But just as appreciated as those bags and boxes full of items is money. You are most welcome to drop off a cash gift at the food drive.

"Share Your Holiday" attendants will be in front of the Governor's Mansion on the circle drive from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday. You don't even have to get out of your car.

WHAT: "Share Your Holiday" Drive-Through Food Drive

WHEN: 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 10

WHERE: Governor's Mansion, 606 Mountain Street

WHY: To provide non-perishable food and supplies to AEDV

Homeless Christmas

Each year, Carson City Health and Human Services, in conjunction with St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Community, Toys for Tots, the Carson City Wellness Association and Santa Claus, holds a Christmas party for children of people who are homeless or in poverty.

On a designated Saturday in December, the parents bring their child(ren) to the holiday event. Each child receives a "special something" from Santa. This year, the event is Saturday.

CLINICS

What: Carson City Health and Human Services health clinics

Clinic Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., by appointment, Monday-Wednesday and Friday

WHERE: 900 East Long St. Carson City

CONTACT: 775-887- 2195

Vaccination is the best defense against the flu

CCHHS offers flu injections for $20 and nasal mist for $25. No appointment is necessary.

Thursday is Immunization Day

WHEN: 8:30-11:30 a.m.; 1-4:30 p.m. No appointment needed

CONTACT: 775-887-2190

WHOOPING COUGH

EPIDEMIC IN CALIFORNIA

In neighboring California, confirmed cases of whooping cough, or pertussis, is now four times that of last year. Local health officials encourage Tdap boosters for any adult up to 64 years of age that is in close contact with an infant. Whooping cough boosters for adults and vaccine for infants is available at Carson City Health and Human Services.

On the Web

www.gethealthycarsoncity.org

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• Pam Graber is the public information officer at Carson City Health and Human Services. Contact her at 775-283-7906 pgraber@carson.org.