UNITED TOGETHER #GANDARASTANDSWITHPR (continued) #GandaraStandsWithPR As an agency which serves and employs a large Hispanic population, our staff and community were deeply impacted by the devastation left behind after hurricanes Maria and Irma hit Puerto Rico. Wanting to be at the forefront of helping to connect people to the resources needed most, at a time when they needed it most, the Gándara Center collaborated with Western Mass United for Puerto Rico, a local coalition comprised of community leaders and organizations. The coalition served as a conduit to services and information to those affected by the hurricanes and spearheaded a food and necessities drive delivered directly to the island. Recognizing the impact these hurricanes had on survivors and their families’ mental health, the Gándara Center hosted a Community Support and Outreach Day at its Outpatient Clinic in Springfield on Oct. 7. Gándara mental health professionals were on-hand to comfort those affected by the hurricanes—employees, their families, friends, and neighbors. The event was free and open to anyone who wanted an opportunity to talk, get connected to area services, and explore job opportunities. In anticipation of local families welcoming their families and friends displaced by the hurricanes to Massachusetts, the Gándara Springfield Family Resource Center hosted a clothing drive and provided necessities to those in need. (continued at right) Helping others during a time of need, when help might not seem possible, is what the Gándara Center represents and is at the core of its mission. Understanding that our own staff were battling with the same struggles as those in our community—worrying about loved ones still on the island; taking in family members who were now homeless; dealing with the loss of family and friends— Gándara’s Executive Director, Henry East-Trou, implemented a “for Gándara, by Gándara” employee assistance program and the #GandaraStandsWithPR campaign was born. Employees throughout the agency were given an opportunity to contribute to the fund through an online portal and proceeds from the sale of support bracelets were donated to the fund; with the total funds raised matched by Gándara. To be considered for relief funds, staff completed an application which explained how they (or their family) were impacted by the hurricanes and how funding would help alleviate any hardship. Gándara is committed to helping not only the adults, children, and families in the communities we serve, but supports the team of people who also make up the Gándara family.
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