The Revere Commission on Disabilities is continuing its efforts to bring more information to residents about available resources in the community. Commission members are continuing their efforts to host public officials and other organizations to speak at upcoming commission meetings.
At the commission’s most recent meeting on Tuesday, member Pauline Perno said she has put together a brief letter and speaking format she is hoping to send out to city department directors asking them to appear before the commission. Some of the departments Perno said she would like to see before the commission in the coming months include the health, public works and fire departments. She said the department heads could update the commission on issues of interest to people with disabilities and the community at large and how they are addressed in the city.
“The health department could touch on the Covid and flu vaccines and how to keep yourself healthy,” said Perno.
Commission on Disabilities Chair Ralph DeCicco said there are also some state agencies that have expressed interest in appearing before the commission in Revere to discuss the resources they offer to people with disabilities. “I know that in the past a couple of health agencies have come before us,” said DeCicco. “Mystic Valley [Elder Services] came a few years ago and gave a brief summation for families of people with disabilities about the types of services they offer.”
DeCicco noted that the commission is not an advocate for people with disabilities, but helps people find the proper resources for their needs. “We can let them know people in our community who they can reach out to for services,” he said. “Basically, what we are here for is we want to put them in touch with the right people who they can contact.”
DeCicco said the commission tries to stay up to date on its web page on the city’s website with the services and organizations available to help people in the community with disabilities.
“The biggest issue can be who do you call,” said Perno. She noted that there are many community organizations that provide similar services, but that some of them are more appropriate for certain services and help.