In a show of ongoing dedication to recovery efforts post-Hurricane Helene, North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai embarked on a tour of western North Carolina. His visit, coinciding with a Day of Service alongside Governor Stein and other state officials, aimed to underscore their commitment to facilitating recovery and rebuilding efforts in the region.
Buncombe County’s Resilient Response
Secretary Sangvai initiated his journey on September 15th with a visit to Buncombe County Health and Human Services. Here, he engaged in discussions with local leadership and staff who played a pivotal role in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Over the past year, the county has collaborated with various organizations to offer essential services, including hot lunches and community care centers, to those affected.
During his visit, Sangvai highlighted Buncombe County’s successful adoption of the Sobriety Treatment and Recovery Team Model (START), which has been instrumental in aiding individuals with substance use issues. The county’s leadership stressed their focus on ensuring a safe and resilient workforce while expanding trauma-responsive, evidence-based services for the community.
Collaborative Clean-up Efforts with MountainTrue
Later that day, Sangvai joined forces with Governor Stein for a volunteer initiative with MountainTrue, an organization pivotal in cleaning waterways impacted by the hurricane. This collaboration has been central to restoring the environment in some of the most severely hit areas.
“As we approach one-year since Hurricane Helene, the road to recovery is ongoing in western North Carolina and NCDHHS is committed to helping areas hit hardest now and in the months and years to come,” stated Secretary Sangvai. “I am grateful for MountainTrue and their mission as together we are working to create safe and healthy communities.”
Engaging with Lincoln County’s Social Services
The following day, September 16th, Secretary Sangvai visited the Lincoln County Department of Social Services. Here, officials expressed concerns over the growing caseloads and the challenges posed by potential changes to Medicaid and SNAP programs due to federal legislation.
Sangvai reiterated his dedication to enhancing the workforce and ensuring services are accessible to all North Carolinians. “I am committed to strengthening the health and human services workforce in North Carolina and supporting staff, so they have the resources they need to help the communities they serve,” he emphasized.
Matthew Hillman, Director of Lincoln County DSS, discussed the county’s adoption of the statewide information system, PATH NC. Staff noted improvements in child welfare services due to its implementation and praised efforts to enhance the system’s effectiveness. More details about PATH NC can be found here.
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