RENSSELAER, N.Y. (NEWS10) —As the holidays bring joy to many families, they can also bring a lot of stress for families who are struggling to make ends meet. There is a support line available right here in Capital Region that aims to connect families with help before problems escalate.
That hotline is called the HEARS Family Hotline. Short for help, empower, advocate, reassure and support provided by New York State Office of Child and Family Services. Created to help families get the support they need especially around the holidays.
“We want to connect them to the natural environment offerings, meaning, you know, those organizations that are boots on the ground that are helping, whether it be food insecurity, mental health services, financial supports,” said Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.
Tree lighting at Monument Square in Troy kicks off
The HEARS Family Hotline launched in 2022, but state officials say it’s become even more critical as the cost of living rises and families face increasing pressures. The goal is early support before a family reaches a breaking point…