Stow: February Mayor Letter

Press release from the City of Stow:

February 08, 2021

By Kristin Spicer

February Mayor Letter

Happy Winter! Not to worry – Spring will arrive as it always does. As we move further into this deep dark winter, and as we endure navigating this pandemic for nearly a full year, I am so very concerned about our residents and their well-being. I encourage you all to get outside if possible. And, don’t forget to check out our events and programs that have been adapted during these different times. We have a wonderful array of activities! https://stowohio.org/special-events/

With that in mind, the current climate seems like an appropriate time to launch a new city-wide initiative, #YouMatter, designed to promote mental health awareness and acts of kindness among residents.

As part of the #YouMatter initiative, all Stow residents will soon receive a postcard with a detailed listing of local resources to help in a potential time of need. The comprehensive list will include a wide cross-section of organizations who can assist in a time of crisis. Residents are urged to keep the list as a reference and also share with friends and family who could benefit from such services.

Additionally, we have produced the Kindness & Connections notecard – a blank notecard that will be made available for residents, local businesses and K-12 students who wish to write and send a personal note of kindness or encouragement to someone to let them know they matter. So many residents would truly value a positive note from someone right now. Notecards will be available at Stow City Hall or https://stowohio.org/mental-health-resources/ if you would like to print from home.

This initiative has been organized and implemented in collaboration with the Stow-Munroe Falls City School District and several Summit County non-profit service agencies comprised of community leaders and other local and regional stakeholders whose vision is to raise awareness of the rising number of suicides in Stow and surrounding communities. I am so proud of the work our team has done to support the #YouMatter initiative, and I truly believe this work will make a difference in our community.

This collaboration will continue in 2021 with continued focus on education and awareness of important mental health and wellness topics. For more information about the City of Stow and the #YouMatter initiative, please visit our website. https://stowohio.org/

Sincerely,

John Pribonic
Mayor, City of Stow

This press release was produced by the City of Stow.The views expressed here are the author’s own.