Continuing our series of Local People, Local Stories, Local Impact, we asked Amanda Smith, Member Engagement Specialist for Cardinal Innovations Healthcare, about COVID-19 and the impact it has had on the Stokes Wellness Center.
- What are you and/or your agency doing here in Stokes County to support our residents during COVID-19?
- Why is it important that our community practice self-care, for mental and physical well-being?
- What is something positive you have seen in midst of chaos of COVID-19 as we navigate this together?
“We recognize that the effects of COVID- 19 are far reaching beyond just our physical health. The fear of contracting the virus, adapting to new routines, isolation and difficulties obtaining necessities can have profound effects on our emotional health. Supporting our members and our communities in maintaining their health and wellness is always our top priority.”
“In efforts to support the Stokes Community we have worked collaboratively with community partners such as Insight Human Services, the Stokes County Cooperative Extension, local artist Dianna Altrath and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Diana Bryant to provide ‘Virtual Wellness Programming’.”
Each day community members can access free programming that will range from line dancing, stress management education, arts and crafts and more by viewing our Cardinal Innovations FACEBOOK PAGE, TWITTER ACCOUNT or our blog.
“I have had the pleasure of working with these agencies and individuals on a regular basis in the community at our Cardinal Innovations Wellness Center in Walnut Cove before COVID-19 and am excited to have a new platform for them to share their knowledge, talents and abilities to those who may need it.”
“As an organization we are also sending out ‘Virtual Wellness Kits’ to community members that includes entertainment links, tips to talking with your child about COVID-19 and how to access community resources to address needs such as food insecurities. I am proud to say that we have also started the COVID-19 Relief Fund which is a grant that will fund the efforts of non-profits who are supporting those affected by COVID-19.”
As a Member Engagement Specialist, we are working closely with other departments within our organization, behavioral health providers and community members to ensure access to mental health, substance use and developmental disability services.
“We understand that navigating behavioral health resources can be difficult and COVID-19 has added complexity to this. We want our communities and the residents of Stokes County to know that we are committed to ensuring that you get connected to the behavioral health services that you need.”
“Now is more important than ever to connect people who may be experiencing a mental health crisis to the right help at the right time and place.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues please don’t hesitate to reach out to our Access Line by dialing **ASK and you will be connected with a licensed clinician.
This helps us to support our local community hospitals and keep our Emergency Rooms free for those who need them the most during the COVID- 19 pandemic. Please know that you are not alone and many people are struggling with adapting to all life changes large and small.
While COVID-19 has been a difficult experience for us as a whole, I am inspired by my colleagues, Stokes Community Partners and the Stokes Community at how far everyone will go to provide support to those in need. We truly are in this all together!”