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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Wendy Healy
203-744-6367
wendyhealy@aol.com
John Scibilia: 866-864-1600

Project LIFE a phone call away …1-800-729-9209

To support those affected by Sept. 11 navigate through the red tape associated with getting public assistance, Lutheran Disaster Response of New York (LDRNY) has funded Project LIFE.

The Project Lutheran Initiative For Empowerment (Project LIFE) is a new care management program coordinated by Lutheran Social Services (LSS). It will help victims of Sept. 11 access the myriad of help and benefits available, as well as connect them with the right services.

"Project LIFE will help people maneuver the system of public assistance," said Chris Connell, divisional director of Community Services for LSS. "Sometimes it can be mind-boggling," she added.

Three full-time care managers -- Debra Gaines, Marie Hall and Marc Herstein -- are working individually with those needing help. More case managers are needed. Janet Bouman, LSS¹ Westchester Outreach coordinator, is overseeing the project.

In the first week that Project LIFE was rolled out, 65 phone calls from pastors and individuals were received. "The volume of phone calls alone indicates that the needs of people suffering from Sept. 11 continues to be a priority of the church," said John Scibilia, LDRNY coordinator.

"The difference between Project LIFE and other case management programs is that we that apply the ministry aspect to it," said Connell. "We're not just about managing by a case number; we're about caring for the total person and providing a continuum of care."

Project LIFE will not only help people get monetary assistance, it will also help them with life planning issues, such as job training, staying motivated and getting on with life following the tragedy.

Volunteers are needed to man the toll-free hotline. If you can volunteer, call Chris Connell at 212-784-8960, or Janet Bouman at 800-729-9209.

Pastors and congregation members are encouraged to call Project LIFE if they know of someone who needs help. 1-800-729-9209.