The School Social Work Office is a resource for students, families, faculty and staff. Social work services provide support in the areas of social/emotional development and social interactions. Services may include group or individual counseling, as well as consultation with parents, teachers, administrators and community service providers. The school social work office also provides referrals to community agencies when appropriate. ***************************************************************************************** How to Reduce Your Holiday Stress The holidays can be a joyous and wonderful time, but there’s no denying that holiday stress can sometimes creep up on even the most calm and organized among us. Here are some common causes of holiday stress and anxiety and what you can do about them. Biggest causes of holiday stress and anxiety: How to handle stress and anxiety: Less time, more obligations Identify the specific causes of your holiday stress Fatigue Let go of perfection Financial worries Make a list Family get-togethers Talk to a friend Unrealistic expectations Let others help Get in some exercise “Recharge” your “batteries” Reduce Holiday Stress Talk about stressful! This year, take the pressure off. Here are eight tips to help you relax this holiday season. Put stress in its place: it’s not about the holidays – sometimes, you need to take a step back and make sure that you are focusing on the present, rather than worrying about the future or fretting about the past. Create the holiday you want – make clear decisions about how you want to spend your time and resources. Involve your kids – as much as possible, stick to regular mealtime and bedtime schedules; involve your children in planning. Beware of shopping pitfalls – remember that spending more money doesn’t always show that you care more. Stay within a budget. Get creative in your gift giving – consider drawing names, making handmade gifts, or giving coupons to “cash in” for chores or for special time (e.g., playing a special game). Play games – keep things light and fun. Postpone family feuds – if family arguments surface, plan to talk about it or deal with it after the holidays are over. Have compassion for yourself and others – try not to take things personally; accept people as they are.

With the Holidays and Winter approaching fast, many families may be concerned about the additional expenses involved at this time of year. Below we have compiled some area resources that families can access. Area Food Banks Vernon Holy Family Church 4343 Peterboro St. Vernon, NY Ph Verona Town of Verona Food Pantry 5694 East main Street Verona, NY Ph H.E.A.P. Home Energy Assistance Program HEAP is a federally funded program designed to assist low to middle income families and individuals in meeting the costs of home energy. This season HEAP will open for regular benefits on November 17, 2014 and is scheduled to close for regular benefits on December 31, S.N.A.P. SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) is a program that provides supplement assistance to low income households so they can obtain low cost nutritious meals. Benefits are provided thru Electronic Benefit Transfer ( EBT ), which is used like a "debit" card. Tis’ the Season!.