IN THIS ISSUE

spotlight

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons &

National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

End Human Trafficking: Organized Crime, Local Impact

Human trafficking is organized crime—and it’s happening everywhere. Each year, thousands of men, women, and children are trafficked for sexual exploitation, forced labor, and other forms of abuse. Organized criminal networks increasingly exploit global migration, technology, and vulnerable populations for profit. From 2020 to 2023, more than 200,000 victims were detected globally—only a fraction of the true number.

This year’s theme, “Organized Crime – End the Exploitation,” calls on law enforcement, justice systems, and communities to step up efforts to dismantle trafficking networks while centering the rights and needs of survivors.

🔹 The Blue Heart symbolizes solidarity with victims and the cold-heartedness of traffickers.

🔹You can take action by sharing the campaign, learning the signs, and promoting safe reporting pathways.

🔹Everyone has a role to play. Raising awareness and remaining vigilant can help save lives.

Cape & Islands DA’s Human Trafficking Hotline 774-822-0632

If you see something, say something. The Cape & Islands District Attorney’s Office operates a confidential Human Trafficking Hotline that accepts calls or texts 24/7.

Whether you're reporting suspicious activity or seeking help, this line connects you directly to trained professionals working to combat trafficking on Cape Cod and the Islands.

Learn more: capeandislandsda.gov

BIPOC Mental Health Awareness

Culture, race, and ethnicity deeply shape how individuals experience and manage mental health. Mental Health America’s BIPOC Mental Health Resource Center provides tools, stories, and support tailored to the unique needs of Black, Indigenous, and people of color.

Explore resources and this year’s BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit—available in English and Spanish—in honor of Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month this July.

aging well & healthy living

Heat Preparedness Resources for Older Adults and Caregivers Shared by Executive Office of Aging and Independence

When temperatures reach above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, adults aged 65+ are at a greater risk of experiencing heat-related side-effects, particularly those with certain chronic medical conditions or those who take prescription medications that affect the body’s ability to control temperature and sweat. 

The Executive Office of Aging and Independence (AGE) has shared a list of resources for older adults and caregivers. 



The resources include: 

• A flyer on heat-related illness symptoms and caregiver checklist 
• Extreme Heat Preparedness Checklist + Assistance for Air Conditioning Costs 
• Tips for older adults to stay cool on hot days.

Webinar to Celebrate the ADA: How Assistive Technology Supports Daily Life and Work: Tuesday, July 8th | 3:00-4:30 PM

Celebrate the ADA: How Assistive Technology Supports Life and Work

Tuesday, July 8, 2025, | 3:00–4:30 PM ET



In honor of the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), join the Disability Employment Technical Assistance Center (DETAC) for a special webinar exploring the role of assistive technology (AT) in increasing independence and access at work and in daily life.

Technology continues to reshape what’s possible—yet some of the most effective tools remain underused. This session, hosted by experts from the Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training Center (AT3 Center), will spotlight ways AT empowers individuals with disabilities, supports inclusive employment, and fosters independence across all stages of life.

What to expect:

• Real-world examples of AT in action
• Guidance on increasing access to AT tools
• Innovative approaches to workplace and community inclusion

Accessibility: Live captioning (with Spanish machine translation), ASL interpretation, and accommodations available upon request during registration.

Celebrating Age Through the Lens: Photo Contest Winners Announced

We’re thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s annual photo contest! Congratulations to first-place winner Salem Krieger for his striking entry, "Ford 1933." Each photo submitted offers a compelling counter-narrative to aging stereotypes—capturing the strength, spirit, and stories of older adults. This year’s theme, "This is 75," inspired images that are bold, honest, and full of life.

Strong at Heart: Free Exercise Program for Brewster

Residents 60+

Get moving with Strong at Heart—a free weekly fitness class designed for generally healthy older adults. Led by a VNA of Cape Cod Exercise Physiologist, the program combines interval training with exercises that support strength, balance, and brain health.

• Brewster Senior Center
• Tuesdays, 2:30–3:30 PM | July 8–August 12, 2025
• Registration required: (508) 957-7423

Hip Hop Chair Dance Class – July 16

Get ready to move! Join Rondaé Drafts, Ph.D. for a fun and energizing Hip Hop Chair Dance session at the Brewster Council on Aging. Enjoy upbeat music, creative props, and rhythmic movement—all while seated!

• Tuesday, July 16 | 1:30–2:30 PM
• Brewster Council on Aging – 1673 Main Street
• Advanced registration required: Call 508-896-2737 to reserve your seat.

Drums, maracas, and soul-train vibes included—come for the music, stay for the joy!

behavioral health

Introducing URGENT CARE for

 Mental Health & Substance Use

Need Urgent Mental Health Support? Help Is Available.

Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHCs) and Behavioral Health Urgent Care Centers (BHUCs) across Massachusetts provide rapid, local access to mental health and substance use services.



Services include:

• Same- or next-day evaluations
• Individual & group therapy
• Psychiatric consults and addiction medications
• 24/7 in-person crisis support
• Short-term overnight crisis care

CBHC clinics are open 8 AM–8 PM on weekdays and 9 AM–5 PM on weekends. BHUC hours vary by location.

Find a center: www.MassHelpLine.com/Urgent 📞 Call anytime: 1-833-773-2445 (24/7/365)

Pride and Mental Health

While Mental Health and Pride Months have ended, the need for inclusive mental health support continues year-round. Pride reminds us of the courage it takes to live authentically—especially for those navigating unsupportive environments or coming to terms with their identity.

Explore Mental Health America’s LGBTQ+ Resource Center for articles, tools, and support below.

Let’s keep the conversation going and ensure that everyone has access to care, community, and the resources they need to thrive.

housing & homelessness

Natural Disasters and Homelessness

Extreme weather events are a very common cause of homelessness, especially when insurance and other rebuilding resources are limited. Many are still working to rebuild their lives from storms and other natural disasters that occurred years ago. Natural disasters can hit at anytime and anywhere. Be prepared!

SHINE

SHINE Health Benefits University: August 7th, 2025 at 3:00 PM

Join the SHINE Health Benefits University Webinar on August 7, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET to learn about Medicare eligibility, enrollment, costs, 2025 updates, and how COBRA coverage interacts with Medicare. SHINE Training Coordinator Kathleen Gouveia will explain important considerations to avoid coverage gaps or penalties and provide guidance on programs that can help reduce Medicare costs. For free, personalized assistance, contact the Cape Cod & Islands SHINE Program at 508-375-6762.

scams & fraud

KnowBe4 Scam of the Week: Deepfake, Deep Trouble

upcoming community events

Save the Date: 2025 Suicide Prevention Summit

Mark your calendars for the 2025 Suicide Prevention Summit—a day of learning, connection, and action to support mental health and save lives.

Date: September 25, 2025

Location: Devens Common Center, Devens, MA

Stay tuned for registration and agenda details.

Yoga of the 12-Steps

employment opportunities

Housing Assistance is Hiring

Support Staff – Housing Assistance Corporation

Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt Position

Location: One Love Lane, Cape Cod

Reports To: Shelter Operations Director

Employment Status: Varies (shift-based)

Updated: January 10, 2025

Housing Assistance Corporation seeks compassionate and reliable individuals to join our shelter team as Support Staff. This is an excellent entry point into the human services field, offering hands-on experience and comprehensive training. Support Staff are responsible for maintaining a safe, structured, and supportive shelter environment while assisting with daily operations and guest needs.

Duties include guest orientation, safety monitoring, enforcing rules, responding to emergencies, collaborating with colleagues, and upholding privacy and program policies. Candidates must be dependable, calm under pressure, and able to work with diverse populations. Evening and weekend availability may be required.

Required Qualifications:

• Valid driver’s license
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to set boundaries and remain composed in unpredictable situations

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bilingual
• Experience in shelter or human services settings

The role involves frequent standing, walking, and communication, with occasional lifting (up to 50 lbs), pushing/pulling (up to 75 lbs), and kneeling or bending. Must be able to multitask, follow complex instructions, and engage effectively with shelter guests and team members.

Work is conducted in person at One Love Lane. Schedules vary depending on program needs.

To apply, please send your resume and a brief statement of interest to the Shelter Operations Director at [insert contact email or application link if available]. HAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing reasonable accommodations.

Director of Development – Cape Abilities

Status: Full-time, Exempt Position

Location: Cape Cod (On-site with flexibility as needed)

Reports To: Vice President of Development

Cape Abilities is seeking a Director of Development (DOD) to join our team. As a key partner to the VP of Development, the DOD will play a vital role in advancing our mission to support individuals with disabilities across Cape Cod. This role will drive fundraising strategy, oversee a dedicated development team, steward donor relationships, and manage major campaigns and events that directly impact the people we serve.

We’re looking for a proactive and professional leader—someone who is curious, strategic, and collaborative. The ideal candidate brings strong development experience, creative thinking, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference in the community.

To view the full job description and apply, visit www.capeabilities.org/careers and click on the Director of Development tab.

volunteer opportunities

WE CAN: PathMaker Program Seeking Mentors and Mentees

The program is free and the only requirements are that the women should live on Cape Cod, be willing to commit to attending the monthly meetings (Sept- May) and willing to work on a life goal. The PathMakers Program is a facilitator-led peer mentoring program that empowers women through self-advocacy and personal growth. Using a strengths-based approach, participants gain confidence, support, and connection in a safe space. Each PathMaker selects a Mentoring partner to work toward a personal goal, meeting individually and in monthly group sessions in Hyannis, hosted by WE CAN. Discussions cover topics like self-compassion, personal strengths, and vision-setting.

Horizons For Homeless Children: Playspace Volunteer Program

The mission of Horizons for Homeless Children is to improve the lives of young children experiencing homelessness in Massachusetts, and help their families succeed by providing high quality early education, opportunities for play, and comprehensive family support services.

A new Playspace is being opened in Dennis later this month! Playspaces are created and operated by Horizons within homeless shelters, enriched with books, toys, and arts and crafts materials. Playspaces are dependent on volunteers, called PALs (Playspace Activity Leaders) to play with the children and create meaningful connections. PALs commit to volunteering at the same time and same shelter location for two hours each week.

Questions? Contact Megan Nally, Volunteer Recruitment & Outreach Specialist at mnally@horizonschildren.org

funding opportunities

Cape Cod Foundation:

 Student Emergency Financial Assistance Fund

Earlier this year, The Cape Cod Foundation launched a pilot program in partnership with the Cape Cod Time Neighbors Fund to provide emergency financial assistance to Barnstable County students enrolled in postsecondary education programs. The fund helps with urgent, unanticipated expenses—such as food, housing, medical bills, and transportation—beyond what traditional scholarships cover.

Already, the program has made a difference. One UMass junior received assistance for room and board after her family faced a financial setback. Another student, an LPN finishing her RN at Cape Cod Community College, received support for transportation after a medical issue reduced her income.



With this timely support, both students have stayed on track academically despite serious financial challenges. 

food & community resources

Calling all SNAP Customers: HIP is Back!

YMCA Cape Cod Summer Food Program: FREE Meals for Kids & Teens

Did you know that one in five children in America doesn’t know where their next meal will come from? Even here on beautiful Cape Cod there are families working hard to make ends meet, but cannot. YMCA Cape Cod can help. When summer break begins millions of kids across America find themselves without the National School Lunch Program to keep them full. But your child does not have to go hungry. Turn to YMCA Cape Cod’s Summer Meals Program so your kids 18 and under can get their fill of food and fun. We are proud to be serving the children in our community!

Service Directory Opportunity

The Barnstable County Department of Human Services’ Network of Care SERVICE DIRECTORY website, is a robust local health and human services directory with resources for individuals, families, and agencies on Cape Cod with public health questions and concerns.

Newsletter Sign-up & Submit

Yes! I'd like to received the Human Services e-newsletter. When you click 'sign me up!' you will have a choice to receive both the Human Services and/or RSAC e-news delivered directly to your inbox.

Submissions will only be accepted using our online submission form. Attachments must be in .PDF FORMAT ONLY please. Posting of articles submitted for this publication is at the discretion of the Department.