Neighbor to Neighbor Abilene provides individuals and families in Dickinson County at any stage of adult life with opportunities and tools to enhance the quality of life for their household. Neighbor to Neighbor offers options to "plant new roots in order to spread new wings" during the daytime with or without bringing her children. Identifying the Need
From April though August of 2016, the Washington Post published a series on in-depth articles investigating the drastic rate onf increase in deaths amount rural white women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. The reported statistics include this startling piece on information: Since [1990], death rates for rural white women in midife have risen by nearly 50%. Cited as promiment factors in this disturbing trend are depression, stress, drug overdoses (particularly opiod & he**in, heavy drinking, to***co use, obesity, and a rise in suicides. These finding, while of themselves concerning, become even more so when paried with numerous studies demonstrating the links between ioslation, depression, and the potential for substance abuse. Neighbor to Neighbor on Cedar St strives to address key areas of substance abuse prevention, education, intervention, and recovery by diminishing the isolation and lifestyle stressors which often plague the life of women in our area. Neighbor to Neightbor on Cedar St provides a perpetual source of communal purpose and contact for all women, regardless of economic status or age. The future impact of such a support netowrk for Abilene's future generations is clear, as women are empowered by other women to become better providers for and mothers/grandmothers to their children. Replicating Demonstrated Success
The model for Neighbor to Neighbor on Cedar St. is an existing program by the same name in Concordia, KS. Developed in 2012, Neighbor to Neighbor in Concordia is a store front drop in center by women and children, sponsored by the Sisters of St. In the course of each year since opening its doors, Neighbor to Neighbor in Concordia has provided service and support for approximately 4000 women and children. Services:
A free community lunch on weekdays
Availability of free showers and laundry facilities
Collaboration with and referrals to*****
Additional collaborations with city and county leadership, including law enforcement, school counselors, phsycians, probation officers, churches, and civic organizations
Peer-mentored activities and sharing, such as sewing, knitting, crocheting, painting, lace-making, card-making, baking/cooking, chair yoga, and more
A free, volunteering monitored play room for young children, which can be utilized by women while they are on site and engaging in their own activities. The indoor play area also encourages children to develop social skills, imagination, coordination, and friends. Access to educational and support programs
Opportunities for social interaction
Enrichment for Children
Volunteer Opportunities
