Chair Jennifer Lieberman called the remote meeting of the Youth Advisory Committee to order remotely at 7:08 PM Monday evening with a crowded Zoom screen revealing several new faces. 

The September 21 meeting was the first for Carrie Buddington and Will Sullivan, who both began on September 1 as student interns from Simmons University.  Jackie Winer, Director of Youth and Family Services introduced them to the Committee, and each provided a few words of their experience.

Also coming on board for a term of two years are the two student representatives, Stephanie Farrell and Brian Sahagian.  These two Holliston High School liaisons were encouraged by the Committee to seek issues of personal interest about which to report their perspectives and to consider creating an educational project of mutual concern to the Committee.

Director of Y&FS, Jackie Winer presented the Director’s Report, reviewing Holliston’s rent and mortgage relief, updating the status of communications and electronic medical records, and informing of the work of the Holliston Drug and Alcohol Awareness Coalition (HDAAC).

With the Select Board’s approval, $25,000 was made available for Holliston Rent and Mortgage Relief through the CARES Act funds.  Rolling electronic applications are being accepted until the end of October.  Additional information about this process may be accessed at the Y&FS website: here. Applicants with children are being prioritized.  Winer said, “My goal is to help at least 10 people.” Presently 6 applications have been received. John Drohan, YAC member and Director of the Holliston Community Action Fund (HCAF), is working with Winer, and informed the Committee, “The CAF is also here for the community.” 

Due to the purchase of a new medical records electronic program, Theranest Medical Record, staff may easily customize the clients’ portals and create forms.  The $1,176. program cost is covered by CARES Act funds, but will need to be a budget item going forward. 

Winer reported that the HDAAC is planning to have an early Fall virtual open house. The Coalition is meeting quarterly; its next meeting is October 6, at 6:30 PM via Zoom.

Drohan reported that the HCAF continues to provide grants.  The student-division, however, is “on hold.”  It hopes to begin via Zoom, as no meetings will be held at HHS, and members will focus on an outdoor community project.  “Holliston Together,” a recent HCAT program that supports local businesses, has produced a promotional video (click HERE) as well as yard signs with support from the Action Fund. 

Chair Lieberman mentioned one Committee member opening. The meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM.  The next Committee meeting is on October 19, at 7:00 PM, via Zoom.