Happy Thanksgiving & Updates

cares
November 24, 2021
As we prepare for this year’s Thanksgiving, I wanted to reach out with gratitude for all of you. Thanks for your acts of generosity towards your neighbors, for reaching out and sharing your ideas and opinions, for collectively working through COVID, including getting vaccines, boosters, and maintaining safety protocols, for caring so passionately about our community. Over and over again, leaders around the state comment about how active and engaged the people of Fairfield are and I could not agree more. It is a privilege to work alongside you.
The holiday season is an opportunity to gather and celebrate. It can also be a time of stress that highlights grief and loss. As we enter into the holiday season, here are a few tools to remain healthy and safe and to engage in self-care.
CDC Holiday Safety Guidelines
Unfortunately, COVID is still a consideration as we gather. Check out the link above for the CDC Safety Protocols. Remember, free testing is available at the Fairfield Mill Plain lot, which you can book through Yale New Haven Health. That said, no appointment is necessary.
All Connecticut adults who received their Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least 6 months ago or their J&J vaccine at least two months ago are now eligible for the booster. The CDC recommendations allow for a “mix and match” approach or you may opt for the same vaccine. The Connecticut Department of Health recommends that people get boosted as soon as possible. You can find an appointment near you here. And, as you are likely aware, 5-11 year olds are also now eligible for the COVID vaccine. You can make those appointments here.
Save the Night CT

Traffic fatalities are at historically high levels and trending in the wrong direction. Our CT DOT is offering a $10 discount on Uber rides from now through January 14 between the hours of 5 pm and 4 am. Please take advantage of this offer and get a ride if you are under the influence of alcohol or cannabis.

Here is a handy guide our Fairfield CARES friends share to remind you the impact of various drinks.
Mental Health and Wellness

The holiday season can be stressful. Our local regional behavioral health action organization, The Hub CT, is a great source of both information and inspiration. If you follow them on Instagram and Facebook as well as Fairfield CARES, you will see reminders like the photo below and resources about how to get help if someone you love is in trouble.
Recently, Representatives Devlin, Leeper and myself hosted an online forum with representatives from Fairfield CARES and The Hub CT, two doctors from the Yale Child Study clinic, and Fairfield Public Schools about how to access mental health resources for a young person who needs assistance. The presenters offered some practical tips. It is worth watching or sharing if you or someone you know needs this kind of support.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families. Wishing you an attitude of gratitude.