Aging Services Inc. is offering classes on learning how to live healthy with diabetes. The classes are held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Thursday from Aug. 18 to Sept. 22 at Aging Services Inc., Indiana. The interactive class is for those 60 and older and can help you learn to better manage your diabetes by giving support and helpful tools in order to live a healthier life. Register with Heidi Farmery at (724) 349-4500, ext. 103, or Vicki Burgess at ext. 112.
• The second annual Warriors Rock Concert will be held at 7 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Toretti Auditorium, Kovalchick Center, White Township. This is a musical tribute show that will rock every emotion. If you love music, love to honor veterans and want to renew your patriotism, then help bring this show to your area. Veterans are the stars of the show in a unique production that leaves audiences mesmerized. Gary Racan and his Studio E Band provide the variety music for the show. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $10 for veterans and students. They rely on sponsor/donation monies to help defray the cost of the production with 100 percent of the ticket proceeds being donated to The Veterans Affairs Office in Indiana for a special fund to assist local veterans.
If you or your business/organization would like to sponsor the show, contact Bill and Diana Staffen, team leader, at (724) 422-3339 or Dick and Linda Staffen at (724) 910-9067.
• Golden Onsite Dental Clinic will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 18 at The Arc of Indiana County, 120 N. Fifth St., Indiana. The Arc is partnering with Golden Onsite Dental to provide individuals with disabilities a sensory-safe location to receive dental health check-ups (exam, cleaning, fluoride varnish, treatment options if needed, including with a local dental provider, parent education and hands-on learning for families). All insurances are welcome. For an appointment, text Arc to (724) 858-9295.
• Zion Lutheran Church’s Food Pantry is open from 10 a.m. to noon the third Saturday of each month. No registration is required. Enter through the glass doors on the Church Street side.
• The Pittsburgh Food Bank is sponsoring their “Summer Youth Café” with healthy and free meals at a site near you. Open to all youth ages 18 and younger, there is no cost or sign-up required. Due to changes at the federal level they are no longer able to offer grab and go meals so meals must be consumed on site. Meals will be available at the following locations:
— Homer Center Elementary School Monday through Friday Aug. 1 to 19 for lunch.
— Mack Park Pool, Indiana, Monday through Friday, June 6 to Aug. 19 for lunch from 10:45 a.m. to noon.
— Creekside United Methodist Church Monday, Wednesday and Friday, June 13 to Aug. 19 for lunch from noon to 1 p.m.
For more information and additional sites, go to www.Pittsburghfood bank.org/findfood, call 2-1-1 or text “FOOD” to 304-304.
• Armstrong Indiana BDHP and The Open Door announced that the new national 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline phone number was implemented on July 16: The U.S. is transitioning to using the 988-dialing code to operate through the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800) 273-8255. If you call or text 988 your call will be answered by a regional PA Lifeline provider not our local crisis provider, The Open Door. If you are in need of mobile crisis services the Lifeline professional will have to contact The Open Door. AIBDHP and The Open Door are encouraging everyone that is in need of Crisis Service in Armstrong or Indiana Counties to contact The Open Door directly at (877) 333-2470.
• The Pennsylvania State Police will offer Child Safety Seat Checks the third Wednesday of the month by appointment only at Troop A Headquarters, 35 Fenton Road, Indiana. All safety seat checks are conducted by certified technicians. To schedule an appointment, contact Trooper Cliff Greenfield at (724) 357-1998.
• COVID-19 Test Kits Available: The Arc of Indiana County still has many COVID-19 Test Kits available for the community. They are free for anyone who needs them. Stop by at The Arc to get your COVID-19 antigen home test kits anytime during their office hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday at 120 N. Fifth St., Suite 2, Indiana. These kits will expire in January.
• Aging Services Inc. has announced the 2022 Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program. The Pennsylvania Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, a state wide program through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, is designed to provide money for the purchase of nutritious Pennsylvania produce. To receive vouchers through Indiana County Aging Services Inc., you must be 60 years of age by Dec. 31, 2022, a resident of Indiana County and meet the 2022 household income guidelines. For more information, call or email Aging Services Inc. at (724) 349-4500 or at jwascak@ag ingservicesinc.com. The last day ASI can distribute vouchers is Sept. 30. You have until Nov. 30 to spend them.
• Indiana County Speaks Up Survey 2022: The Children’s Advisory Commission of Indiana County and The Indiana County Department of Human Services have partnered to again bring the Indiana County Speaks Up Survey to the residents of Indiana County. This survey is distributed every five years. This year, the survey will be open until Dec. 31. The survey started on March 1. The survey is developed to encourage thoughtful reflection of life in Indiana County and the services provided for people of all ages. The people who plan and provide services in Indiana County would like to know what residents think about living in the county now and what changes should be made in the future. By participating in this survey, you can give your opinion on some of these Important issues. You may reach the online survey at https://32speaksup.com/; through Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/32SpeaksUp; or at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Speaks Up. Please share this information with staff, clients/consumers, family, neighbors, etc. Hard copy surveys can be obtained by calling (724) 463-8200, ext. 3, 4 or 8 or by emailing info @32speaksup.com or cac@indiana countypa.gov.
• The PA Dept of Human Services and the Public Utility Commission announced the launch of the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), which will help Pennsylvanians with low income maintain access to drinking and wastewater services. Applications for assistance opened Jan. 4. You may qualify for a Water Assistance Program grant if you either rent or own your home, have an overdue water bill that you are responsible for paying, your household income meets program income guidelines. You may apply online at www.compass.state.pa.us, by calling the Statewide Customer Service Center at (877) 395-8930 or in person at the Indiana County Assistance Office.
• Wolf administration launches PA Homeowner Assistance Fund. Funding will aid homeowners facing COVID-19 Pandemic-related financial hardships. This program will be administered by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. The fund supports Pennsylvania homeowners whose household income is at or below 150 percent of the area median income (AMI) that now must grapple with additional unforeseen financial hardships as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. PAHAF will use these funds to provide eligible Pennsylvania homeowners with much-needed assistance to prevent and/or ease mortgage delinquencies, defaults, foreclosures, displacement and utility disconnection. To learn more go to www.pahaf.org or call (888) 987-2423, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. To see the full list of eligibility requirements go to https://pahaf.org/am-i-eligible.
• Citizens’ Ambulance Service would like to remind everyone of their Car Seat Loaner Program. Any one in need of a free car seat, call (724) 349-5511. Even grandparents whose little grandchildren may be visiting can borrow a seat. Done by appointment only at Citizens’ Ambulance Station 70, 2712 West Pike, White Township.
• Citizens’ Ambulance Service’s Car Seat Safety Checks. “Know for Sure if Your Child is in the Right Car Seat” on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment only at Citizens’ Ambulance Station 70, 2712 West Pike, White Township. Call (724) 349-5511 ext. 251 (leave a voicemail!) or email carseats@asmgt.com.
• Indiana County has received monies to assist with rent and utility payments for those who have been affected by COVID-19. The county has entered into an agreement with ICCAP to administer and deliver the services for the Emergency Rent and Utility Assistance Program. More information is available by calling ICCAP. There are specific eligibility requirements including 80 percent average median income or lower. Applications can be completed on the online COMPASS Program, by calling ICCAP at (724) 465-2657 and providing information over the phone, by making an appointment with ICCAP to use their computers and/or obtain assistance with computers, by requesting a hard copy application be sent to your home, or by working with the Pittsburgh Food Bank’s SNAP representative at (833) 822-7627 who will also enter the information into the COMPASS Program. Any questions about the program should be directed to ICCAP.
• The Family Promise store, “Beyond Shelter,” is open and serving consumers. This store provides low-income and underemployed individuals an opportunity to purchase non-food items for a reduced price so they can use their cash resources to pay their rent and utilities, therefore aiding their ability to maintain independent living.
Call (724) 464-5220 or email ihnin diana@gmail.com to check eligibility, see what you need to bring to your first visit, register for the program, learn the process and the hours of operation.
• Indiana County Office of Planning and Development — The Housing Accessibility Program provides financial assistance in the form of a grant to Indiana County residents with permanent physical disabilities.
The work performed will enable residents to maintain their independent living status by modifying their homes to accommodate their disability. Eligibility requirements must be met including income and homeownership guidelines.
For more information, call Tina Coleman at (724) 465-3872.
• Indiana County Office of Planning and Development — The 55+ Roof and Furnace Replacement Program provides furnace replacements for inoperable or inefficient furnaces that do not operate properly. To qualify, applicants must be age 55 and older, senior homeowners, low-moderate income eligible (Section 8 Guidelines), current on property taxes or on an approved payment plan with Tax Claim. Wood burners, coal furnaces or outdoor furnaces will not be installed. Assessment of the home’s building envelope will be made upon inspection. Additional improvements may be made to aid the efficiency of the new furnace if funds are available. There is a wait list at this time for new applicants.
• Naloxone (Narcan) Training is offered by the Armstrong Indiana Clarion Drug and Alcohol Commission. Naloxone is a medication that can reverse an overdose caused by an opioid drug (i.e. prescription pain medication or heroin). It blocks the effects of opioids on the brain and restores breathing within two to eight minutes to prevent death. Anyone can obtain free Naloxone by completing training with a staff member.
To schedule an appointment, call (724) 463-7860 in Indiana County, (724) 545-1614 in Armstrong County and (814) 226-6350 in Clarion County.
• The Salvation Army Food Pantry is held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. The pantry is open to the public, but appointments are required. No walk-ins are permitted. Those attending must show photo identification. For more information, call (724) 465-2530.
• County residents can dial the 2-1-1 Helpline and be connected with a live operator 24 hours per day, seven days a week who can connect them with human services help. Share this number with family and friends who may not be sure where to turn for help with such things as emergency shelter, food banks, crisis intervention, childcare and other health and human service resources. For more information, visit www.pa211sw.org.
• The Creekside Area Food Pantry is available by appointment for residents of Creekside, Ernest and Washington Township from 10 a.m. to noon the second Thursday of the month at Creekside United Methodist Church. Call (724) 463-0580.
• The Grace United Methodist Church Food Bank supplies fresh meat, produce, dairy and pantry items. For more information, call (724) 463-7530 and leave a message. Volunteers pick up messages from their homes, and calls are returned within 24 hours.
• My Best Friend’s Closet, sponsored by Saltsburg United Methodist Church, is open from 9 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of every other month February through September. It is closed October through January. They provide free, gently used clothing. Call (724) 639-9454.
• Chevy Chase Community Center — Community Lunches, Free healthy balanced lunches are available from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. Lunches are available to the community. Lunches will only be given to those present.
• Chevy Chase Community Center — The Gleaning Program and Pet Food Pantry is held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. The program provides free bread, baked goods and grocery items donated by area merchants year-round for residents in need. For more information, call (724) 463-0674.
• Chevy Chase Community Center — Meals 2 You, an outreach program of the Chevy Chase Community Center, serves home-cooked meals to people in Indiana Borough and White Township who are homebound, disabled or who cannot cook for themselves. There are no age restrictions. The cost is $5 per day. Volunteers deliver to an individual’s home.
For more information, call Brandi Ports (client coordinator) at (412) 309-1494 or email ccmeals2you@gmail.com.
• Chevy Chase Community Center — Little Free Pantry is available. Outside the front doors, you will find a pantry box available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year. It is full of pantry essentials. Take a little, leave a little with no questions asked.
• If anyone is in need of diaper, feminine hygiene or emergency food assistance, you can call the center or talk with Emily when the center is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
• The First United Methodist Church of Marion Center Clothing Closet is open by appointment only from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays and Tuesdays. The closet provides free clothing. Appointments are required. For an appointment or more information, call (724) 397-5517.
• The Jacksonville Presbyterian Church Clothing Closet in Kent is open from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the last Saturday of the month. The closet provides free clothing. The closet is closed November through February. For information, call (724) 479-8941.
The American Red Cross — For information, call the Chestnut Ridge Chapter at (724) 834-6510 or the Indiana County Office at (724) 465-5678. If you are 16 years of age or older (16-year-olds must have parental permission), weigh at least 105 pounds and are in good health, you may donate blood every 56 days. For an appointment, call (800) RED-CROSS or visit https://www.redcross.org/local/pennsylvania/greater-pennsylvania.html.
LECTURES/SEMINARS/WORKSHOPS
• Family Promise of Indiana County is now offering financial literacy classes virtually, via Zoom, on a 1-to-1 basis. No group classes will be offered at this time. Topics include: wants versus needs, tracking spending habits, preparing a budget, living within your means, saving money and debt repayment. The event is free. Information and registration is available at www.familypromiseofindianacounty.com, by phone at (724) 464-5220 or at FLCindco@gmail.com.
• A Gambling Webinar series, sponsored by Armstrong, Indiana, Clarion Drug and Alcohol Commission and conducted by The Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA, will be held. Learn about Expansion of Gambling in PA, Older Adults and Gambling, and Gambling and Gaming. Possible dates include: Older Adults and Gambling, May 24, Armstrong County, May 25, Indiana County and May 27, Clarion County. More dates will be announced later. For more information and to register, go to https://www.pacouncil.com/event-schedule.
CLASSES
Call for next scheduled class, cost and registration information for all classes unless otherwise noted. Most classes require early registration.
• New Born Basics, Indiana Regional Medical Center. This is a workshop that focuses on getting to know baby along with visits to the doctor, immunizations, bath-time, fussiness, safety, childcare and infant nutrition. Call for cost, date and time, (724) 357-7496. This class is being offered virtually at this time.
• Smoke Free for Life Program. Smoking cessation course for anyone ready to quit smoking. This is a virtual 8-week class. Call IRMC Lung Nodule Clinic at (724) 464-2761 to register.
• Aging Services Inc. Exercise Classes for individuals age 60 and older will be held at five senior center locations. Call (724) 349-4500 or (800) 442-8016 for a location near you. You do not have to be a senior center participant. Classes will be conducted by a trained instructor and are geared toward strengthening muscles, improving balance and staying limber.
• Aging Services Inc. Geri Fit Classes have resumed at the Indiana and Two Lick Valley social centers. Classes at the Indiana center are held from 9 to 10 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Participants must call ahead to reserve their spot due to limited capacity. For more information call (724) 465-2697. Two Lick Valley center classes will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at center. For more information call (724) 254-9820.
• AEA Arthritis Aquatics Program is held from 10 to 11 a.m. every Tuesday and 10 to 11 a.m. Friday at IUP’S Lepley Pool at Zink Hall. Transportation is available on Fridays from the Two Lick Social Center and Zink Hall.
• American Red Cross of Chestnut Ridge Babysitting is designed primarily for youths age 11 and older. This online course will prepare students to be better babysitters. Topics include how to provide care for infants and children; how to stay safe; what to do in an emergency; how to choose age-appropriate activities; and how to recognize and handle a variety of behaviors. Students will also learn the basics of starting a babysitting business. The course consists of six interactive modules featuring video, activities, games and tools babysitters can use to build their knowledge and skills and manage their babysitting business. This course, which includes a final exam at the end, takes about four hours to complete. Students who successfully complete the course will receive a printable certificate. This is an online course. For more information or to register, visit www.redcross.org and click on Training & Certification at the top of the page or call (800) RED CROSS.
• American Red Cross of Chestnut Ridge Advanced Child Care Training is an online course that teaches the knowledge and skills necessary to responsibly care for children and infants in and outside of the home. This includes training in leadership, child behavior and discipline, professionalism, safety and basic childcare (bottle feeding, holding, etc.). Learners will be engaged in virtual environments in which world-class animated characters respond specifically to choices made. Throughout, learning is supported through additional activities and informative videos. This program is not intended as certification for state licensed child-care providers and does not meet all state requirements for such certification. This is an online course. For more information or to register, visit www.redcross.org and click on Training & Certification or call (800) RED CROSS.
• American Red Cross of Chestnut Ridge Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED course incorporates the latest science and teaches students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid emergencies such as burns, cuts, scrapes, sudden illnesses, head, neck, back injuries, heat and cold emergencies and how to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies to help victims of any age — adults (about 12 years and older) and pediatric (infants and children up to 12 years of age). Students who successfully complete this course will receive a certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED valid for two years. Visit www.redcross.org and click on Training & Certification at the top of the page to register for this fee-based course or call (800) RED-CROSS and choose option 5.
• American Red Cross of Chestnut Ridge Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers class is designed to train professionals to respond to cardiac and breathing emergencies for adult, child and infant victims. Consistent with the 2015 AHA Guidelines for CPR/ECC, BLS is the foundational CPR/AED program typically required for health care providers and public safety professionals. Through the use of lecture, skills demonstration and practice, case-based emergency response scenarios, and reflection and debriefing activities with a focus on team-based response, BLS builds the key critical thinking, problem solving, and team dynamic skills that are needed to drive better patient outcomes. Upon successful completion of the course, learners will receive a two-year “Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers” digital certificate with anytime, anywhere access to certificate and training history. Visit www.redcross.org and click on Training & Certification at the top of the page to register for this fee-based course or call (800) RED CROSS and choose option 5.
• Children in Between is a program started by the Center for Divorce Education. The parenting education class is effective at changing both parents’ attitudes and behavior about divorce-related problems faced by their children. For information and to register, call the Community Guidance Center at (724) 465-5576. Class size is limited due to social distancing.
• Excela Health offers a variety of Childbirth/Breastfeeding Success Classes. Class are currently offered as online/on-demand sessions.
For information and to register, call the Excela Health Call Center at (877) 771-1234 or visit www.excelahealth.org.
• A recurring series, Living with Diabetes, provides diabetes management information. Most insurance companies cover the costs. A physician referral is required. For information and to register, call the Excela Health Call Center at (877) 771-1234 or visit www.excelahealth.org.
• Faces and Voices of Recovery (FAVOR) of Western Pennsylvania will hold family and community education at 6:30 p.m. the third Monday of the month at Faith Lutheran Church, 6810 Route 22, Clyde, and on the second Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Indiana County Technology Center (during public school schedule). Contact Becky at (878 645-0777 or FAVOR Center at (724) 676-2111. The group provides long-term support services as well as promoting multiple pathways for all. They heed to the voice of the stigmatized addict.
• A Tobacco Cessation Course, one-on-one counseling for those who have resolved to quit smoking. Contact the Excela Health Call Center at at (877) 771-1234 or visit www.excelahealth.org.
• Well-Being Center Fitness Classes feature various types of yoga, interval training, strength and conditioning on an ongoing basis at various locations.
For dates and times, call the Excela Health Call Center at (877) 771-1234 or visit www.excelahealth.org.
• A Breastfeeding Workshop is held by Indiana Regional Medical Center. Learn about feeding your baby, pumping and storing milk. Early registration is required. For more information, call (724) 357-7075. The workshop is being offered virtually at this time.
• A Childbirth Preparation Series is held by Indiana Regional Medical Center. The series is recommended for the 32 to 36 weeks of pregnancy.
This four-part series is designed to prepare parents for giving birth. For more information, call (724) 357-7075. The series is being offered virtually at this time.
• Childbirth Weekend is held by Indiana Regional Medical Center. For more information, call (724) 357-7075. The series is being offered virtually at this time.
• Grocery Store Tours — An IRMC registered dietitian will provide a tour of a local grocery store to discover new products and ask questions about favorite foods. Call (724) 357-8088 for details.
• It’s Time for Me is held by Indiana Regional Medical Center at 10 a.m. every Tuesday of the month via Zoom. The self-guided virtual women’s group educates and engages on topics regarding mind, body and living to improve your health and well-being. For more information or to register, call (724) 427-2763.
• Journey to Lean/Weight Management. Various resources available for weight management, including information on nutrition, behavior changes and physical activity. Call (724) 357-8088 for more information.
• Managing Your Diabetes is held by Indiana Regional Medical Center. For information, call (724) 357-8088.
• Medical Fitness, held by Indiana Regional Medical Center, is a supervised, structured exercise program for inactive adults or those at risk for health problems. Any adult who wishes to improve their fitness level and/or health can attend. For more information, call (724) 357-8088.
• Monthly Health Education. Log on to www.irmc.org for more information.
• Adagio Health offers Smoke Free for Life classes virtually one hour per week for eight weeks. Contact Cortney at cschrecengost@adagiohealth.org or call Quitline at (800) Quitnow.
FAMILY SUPPORT
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, changes have occurred with many support groups. Please contact the agency/organization/group prior to going to a meeting to confirm it is still being offered and in which format. Some are suspended, some are virtual and some may still be meeting in person.
• AL-ANON: Meeting for families and friends of alcoholics/drug addicts.
— The Open Door, Indiana; 7 p.m. Thursdays; for information, call (724) 726-5406
— Marion Center Presbyterian Church, 8 p.m. Fridays; for information call (724) 397-8606
— Marion Center Presbyterian Church, 8 p.m., Friday
— CrossRoads Community Church, Blairsville, noon Thursday
— Indiana County Recovery Center, Indiana; 8 p.m. Saturdays
— St. Thomas More Pavilion, Indiana; 7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays from May through September.
— The Open Door, Indiana; 7:30 p.m. Mondays, noon Fridays, 10 a.m. Saturdays (women) and 1 p.m. Sundays
— Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 747 State Road 2023, Homer City; 8 p.m. Thursdays
— Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital, Greensburg, (877) 771-1234; 10:30 a.m. Sundays (temporarily closed, but online is available) and 7 to 8 p.m. Fridays (temporarily closed)
— Zion Lutheran Church, Indiana; 7 p.m. Sundays (open)
— Indiana County Recovery Center, 574 Philadelphia St., Indiana; 6 p.m. Mondays, 5:30 p.m. Wednesday and 9:15 p.m. Friday. Nar-Anon meeting at 7:15 p.m. Wednesday with a Zoom option available; and a 7 p.m. NarAteen meeting held Sunday via Zoom option available.
— Graystone Presbyterian Church, Indiana; 7:30 p.m. Mondays
— One Hope Church, 100 Ben Franklin Road, White Township; 7 p.m. Tuesdays
— Indiana Alliance Church, Indiana, 8 p.m. Friday
— Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, Homer City; 7 p.m. Wednesdays (open)
— The Open Door, Indiana; 7 p.m. Thursday (open and Zoom) men and women’s groups, and noon Saturdays
— First Church of the Nazarene, Indiana; 7 p.m. Saturdays
• American Cancer Society offers online community support/programs for cancer survivors and caregivers. For information, visit www.cancer.org or call (800) 227-2345.
• Alzheimer’s Support Group, sponsored by Embassy of Hillsdale Park, meets at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month at the Church of the Resurrection Social Hall, 349 Morris St., Clymer. For information, call Kim Neff at (814) 743-6613 or (814) 577-1334.
• The Autism Support Group of Indiana County provides support for parents and grandparents who are dealing with issues of children with autism via posts and live videos.
• Celebrate Recovery is a recovery ministry based on biblical principles with a goal to let God work through individuals in providing His healing power through a Christ-centered 12 step program. Participants share their experiences, strengths, and hopes with one another. Celebrate Recovery provides a safe place for individuals to start dealing with their life’s hurts, hang-ups and habits. Some examples of recovery issues are: codependency, chemical addiction, sexual addiction, eating disorders, anger issues, depression and/or loss, etc. Help for hurts, habits and hang-ups.
— Homer City United Methodist Church; held from 6:15 to 9:30 p.m. every Thursday. At 6:15 p.m., there is an optional light meal and fellowship with a $4.50 fee. At 7 p.m., the large group meeting begins, led by a pastor or a deacon. At 8 p.m., the newcomers meeting and open share groups start. At 9 p.m., there is fellowship. Childcare is offered at no charge.
For more information, call (724) 479-2015.
— Word of Grace Fellowship, 603 S. 5th St., Indiana; Held at 6 p.m. each Monday. Call (724) 541-4875 or email jackiegreene01@gmail.com.
— Montgomery Church of the Brethren, 5227 Purchase Line Road, Commodore; Held at 5:30 p.m. each Tuesday. Call (724) 254-9720 or email pastor@montgomerycob.com.
— New Life Community Church, 2334 Oakland Ave., Indiana, in the Indiana Mall. 6 to 8 p.m. every Friday. Help for hurts, habits and hang-ups. Everyone is welcome and childcare is provided. Contact crindianamall@gmail.com for more information.
• A Grandparents support group will be held the last Thursday of the month at 2 p.m. at Aging Services, Inc. The group is for grandparents raising their grandchildren. Call Melissia at (724) 349-4500 or (800) 442-8016 for more information.
• Grandparents Supporting Others on hold due to COVID-19 — is held at The Alice Paul House. This group was created to assist grandparents and caregivers acting as a parental figure in their grandchildren’s lives. Through education, encouragement and group discussion, grandparents will be given the opportunity to support other grandparents in our community. For date, time and location, call (724) 349-4444.
• The Armstrong Indiana Community Connection Group is normally held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at 120 S. Grant Ave., Kittanning. This group has been created to support family members and individuals with an intellectual disability and/or autism. The group is suspended at this time due to COVID-19. For information, email smontgomery@aimhmr.net, call (724) 548-3451, ext. 605.
• Caregiver’s Support Group, a monthly support group for caregivers of older adults. Meets on the last Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m. Contact Melissia at (724) 349-4500 or 1-800-442-8016 for more info
• Connect Church Recovery, located at 2134 Route 22 Hwy. W., Blairsville, provides Christ-centered support and resources for recovery to those in addiction as well as their struggling families. A certified recovery specialist is at each meeting along with representatives from community agencies and social service professionals available to assist individuals in navigating their programs. For information, contact Bill at (724) 840-8321 or connectrecovery@gmail.com.
• Courage and Cancer is held at 3 p.m. the second Sunday at Grace United Methodist Church. The group is for anyone who is fighting cancer. The confidential group where the aim is to make everyone feel safe in seeking support. For information, call Pastor Kathy at (724) 463-8535.
• Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team is held at The Open Door for emergency services personnel such as ambulance crews, fire fighters, law enforcement officers and any other persons who respond to a critical incident. In offering debriefing services, the team is to help prevent the negative impact of acute stress on emergency workers and to help with the recovery process. For information on when the next meeting will be held, call (877) 333-2470.
• Drug/Alcohol Family Education Support Group is an eight-week curriculum held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at The Open Door in partnership with the Armstrong-Indiana Drug and Alcohol Commission for individuals seeking to learn more about addiction and the impact addiction has on the family. There is no fee. Participants must be 18 or older unless accompanied by an adult. To register, call (724) 465-2605, ext. 125.
• Dual Recovery Anonymous is held at noon Thursdays at The Open Door. The group is for those with mental/social disorder and chemical dependency. Call (724) 465-2605 to see if this group is meeting.
• Epilepsy Association of Western and Central Pennsylvania o
has a new link for their online support groups. All participants — old and new — will have to visit the new link and register for support groups to receive reminders, access groups and enjoy connecting with friends. To register and to receive the on-line link, call Danielle at (717) 730-6779 or email her at dlewis@eawcp.org.
• Excela Health Bariatric Surgery Community Meeting is held online/virtually. Call the Excela Health Call Center at (877) 771-1234.
• Excela Health Breast Cancer Education and Support Group meets the second Wednesday of the month from 6 to 8 p.m. virtually via ZOOM. Registration in advance is required. Call Colleen Dwyer at (412) 338-1919 to register.
• Excela Health Stroke Support Group meets the fourth Tuesday of the month from 6 to 7 p.m. Meetings are held virtually via Zoom. Call 1-877-771-1234 for more information and to register.
• Indiana Regional Medical Center Brain Injury Support is designed to support not only those with brain injuries, but also their family and friends. For more information, call (724) 357-6902.
• Indiana Regional Medical Center Breast Cancer Support Group; call (724) 357-8081 for more information.
• HIV/AIDS Support Group for individuals and families living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. Contact Community Care Management for more information regarding times and locations of meetings, 1-814-534-3032
• Men’s Anger Group is held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. by Catholic Charities, Greensburg. Call (724) 463-8806 or (866) 409-6455 for meeting dates and more information. A screening is required before registration.
• The Myasthenia Gravis Association holds monthly face-to-face support group meetings. For a schedule, visit the virtual support group at www.facebook.com/mgawpa or call (412) 566-1545.
• Nar-Anon Family Support Group, “Gardeners for Growth,” meets from 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. Wednesdays at The Open Door, 665 Philadelphia St., Indiana. Have you been affected by a loved one’s addictive drug use? Share your experience with others. Find strength and hope and learn from one another on how to deal with the pain and heartbreak that comes with loving an addict. Visit www.nar-anon.org or call (724) 388-0324 for meeting status at this time.
• Narateen, support for teenage family members and friends of addicts meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Sunday of the month at the Indiana County Recovery Center, 574 Philadelphia St., Indiana. For more information, call (724) 388-0324
• National Alzheimer’s Association Greater Pennsylvania Chapter gives referrals to meetings, services, agencies, etc. Online support is provided. Call (800) 272-3900 for information.
• The Nurturing Parent Program is available at the Care Center of Indiana County. General information on brain development, child development, empathy, feelings, stress and discipline are available. Call for Time and location at (724) 463-8595 or visit www.carecenterofindianaco.org.
• Parkinson’s Support Group meets at 2 p.m. on the last Thursday of the month at Saving Grace Church, Hospital Road, Indiana. The group provides support and information on how to access resources to assist those affected by Parkinson’s and operates in conjunction with the Parkinson’s Foundation of Western Pennsylvania. Meetings are open to individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. Registration is not necessary. For more information, call Denise at (724) 388-6894 or Deb at (814) 421-3106.
• Reach to Recovery, American Cancer Society, helps newly diagnosed breast cancer patients receive support, information and resources through visits and conversations with trained breast cancer survivors. For more information, call (800) 227-2345.
• TOPS-Take Off Pounds Sensibly meets Monday, 5:15 p.m. weigh-in, 6:15 p.m. meeting, at Grace in Ministries Building, 728 Church Street, Indiana; Monday, 5:45 p.m., weigh-in, 6:30 p.m. meeting, at Purchase Line Methodist Church; and Friday 8 a.m., weigh-in, 8:30 a.m., meeting in the basement of Clymer United Methodist Church. For more information call the area advocate at (814) 243-7507 or visit www.tops.org.
• Indiana County Recovery Center is a faith-based Recovery Community Organization, providing strength-based recovery support services to individuals, families and communities. They aim to put a face and voice on recovery and serve as a physical location where they can organize the local recovery community’s ability to care and give back. For information, call (724) 717-6492 or visit www.indianacountyrecoverycenter.org.
• Victims of Sexual Abuse/Domestic Violence/Other Violent Crimes is held by The Alice Paul House. Children and/or adults dealing with issues of sexual abuse or domestic violence can call (724) 349-4444 for support and information.
• Weight Watchers offers virtual workshops. For more information, call (800) 651-6000
GRIEF SUPPORT
• Bereavement Support Offered By Local Funeral Homes: Some offer specific support services to the families they serve; some offer support services to the general public; some offer meetings and others offer resources. Call to find out if their services can meet your needs.
— Bowser-Minich Bereavement Funeral Home, Indiana; call (724) 349-3100 or (888) 923-5550
— C. Frederick Bowser Funeral Home, Homer City; call (724) 479-9422
— Curran Funeral Home, Saltsburg; call (724) 639-3911
— James F. Ferguson Funeral Home, Blairsville; call (724) 459-7611
— John A. Lefdahl Funeral Home, Indiana; call (724) 463-4499
— McCabe – Roof Funeral Home, Clymer; call (724) 254-2555
— Rairigh-Bence Funeral Home, Indiana, call (724) 349-2000; Clymer, call (724) 254-4342
— Rairigh Funeral Home, Hillsdale; call (814) 743-6833
— Richard Shoemaker Funeral, Blairsville; call (724) 459-9115
— Richard C. Stewart Funeral Home, Armagh; call (814) 446-6699
— Robinson-Lytle, Inc. Funeral Home, Indiana; call (724) 349-9700
• Excela Health Child and Adult Grief Support Groups. Sessions are currently offered online or via conference call. Call Excela Health Call Center at 1-877-771-1234 for more information.
• Excela Health Cancer Grief Support Group Westmoreland/Pittsburgh Cancer Support. Visit www.ourclubhouse.org/events for more information.
• Faces and Voices of Recovery (FAVOR) of Western Pennsylvania holds Embracing Grief meetings at 6:30 p.m. the first Monday of the month at the Bolivar Community Center, 736 Lincoln St., Bolivar, on the bottom floor of K&K Flowers and Coffeehouse. The meetings are currently being held in person and virtually. The support group is for anyone grieving the loss of a loved one. For information, call or text Becky at (724) 388-1124
• Healing Hearts Infant Bereavement Support Group is held from 7 to 9 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month at 5450 Second Ave., Pittsburgh. For information, email healinghearts@cribsforkids.org. Due to COVID-19, all meetings are virtual for the foreseeable future.
• Hopeful Hearts, a service of Concordia-IRMC VNA, is a child-focused, family bereavement support center. Hopeful Hearts provides peer support at no cost for all family members when someone close to the family has died. Families meet in the evenings every second and fourth Tuesdays of the month September through May in a safe, caring and confidential environment. For information about this program, volunteer opportunities or to see if services are provided in person or virtual, call (724) 463-6340.
• Grief Share is being held at Grace united Methodist Church at 6:15 p.m. on Wednesdays. Meetings are held at Grace in Ministries building, 728 Church St., Indiana. This is a support group for those experiencing grief. There are many forms of grief and they care about your loss. No matter what stage of grief you are in, they hope you will join them. Contact Pastor Kathy Mihoerck at (724) 463-8536, ext. 13, or through email at kmihoerck@indianagrace.org for more information.
• Pennsylvania Tears Foundation Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Group meets virtually from 7 to 8 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month. The group is for everyone who has suffered the loss of a baby. Anyone is welcome to attend no matter how long ago your loss occurred. For more information, call (724) 961-9489 or visit www.thetearsfoundation.org/pennsylvania/.
• Concordia — IRMC VNA Family Hospice Coping with Loss Support Groups have resumed at Seventh Day Adventist Church, 1496 Indian Springs Road, Indiana. Groups are open to all of those who are coping with grief and loss. Groups are free and open to the community. The afternoon group is held at 2 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month. For information, call Lori Parks at (724) 762-3642. The evening group is held for six consecutive sessions. For dates, time and more information, call Janice Starry at (724) 463-8711{p id=”docs-internal-guid-bf05143b-7fff-9c44-6d64-b90022f37007” style=”line-height: 1.2; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;” dir=”ltr”}{span style=”font-size: 10pt; font-family: ‘Times New Roman’; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;”}Social Security Administration Local Office:{/span} {span style=”font-size: 10pt; font-family: ‘Times New Roman’; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;”}Continuing through early June, 2022, the Indiana Social Security office, located at 1265 Wayne Ave. Ste 310 Indiana PA 15701 will maintain limited in-person visits and appointments temporarily. The building is undergoing renovations to improve customer experience as well as creating a safer and more secured spaces for the public and employees. The agency plans to resume operations at full capacity in June. All employees of the office continue to work remotely until the building reopens. Residents living in the area are encouraged to call this office at 877-405-7679 or utilize SSA’s online services at{/span} {span style=”font-size: 10pt; font-family: ‘Times New Roman’; color: #0000ff; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;”}www.socialsecurity.gov{/span}{span style=”font-size: 10pt; font-family: ‘Times New Roman’; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;”}. If needed you may also conduct business at any Social Security office. The closest offices to this location are: {/span}{p style=”line-height: 1.2; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;” dir=”ltr”}{span style=”font-size: 10pt; font-family: ‘Times New Roman’; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;”}Greensburg-122 W Third St, Greensburg PA; Kittanning- 159 Butler Rd, Kittanning Pa; and Dubois- 302 Liberty Blvd, Dubois PA; Many Social Security services are also conveniently available by dialing toll-free, 1-800-772-1213. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call Social Security’s TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.{/span}
