OCHN recognizes November as National Family Caregiver Month

OCHN recognizes November as National Family Caregiver Month

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI (November 10, 2022) – In recognition of November being National Family Caregiver (NFC) Month, Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) is joining efforts to acknowledge the heroic actions of individuals who assume the role as a caregiver for family members in need.

The first presidential proclamation of NFC Month was signed in 1997 by President Clinton; every president since then has recognized and honored family caregivers in the month of November.

The Caregiver Action Network (CAN), a non-profit organization that works to improve caregiver’s quality of life, has served a range of family caregivers in providing free resources, education, and support.

Coordinated by CAN, NFC Month has been titled a theme every year. This year’s theme, “#CaregivingHappens,” highlights that caregiving just happens. Whether you are in a meeting, grocery shopping, or when you least expect it, caregiving happens even when it is not always convenient or expected.

The CAN website provides resources and a toolbox for family caregivers to receive information, including an anonymous community forum based on mutual support. To learn more about the “#CaregivingHappens” social media campaign and stories of other caregivers, visit the CAN website at caregiveraction.org/caregivinghappens.

About OCHN

OCHN is contracted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to lead a provider service network that assists approximately 23,000 Oakland County citizens at more than 300 service sites across the county. People who receive public behavioral health services through OCHN's provider network include those who have an intellectual or developmental disability, mental health challenge, or substance use disorder. Most of these individuals have Medicaid insurance coverage.

OCHN's goal is to ensure these individuals are aware of and have access to services and supports that will improve their health and quality of life, as well as ensure their engagement in full community participation. Its mission to “inspire hope, empower people, and strengthen communities” reflects an unyielding belief in a "Valuable System for Valued People." Programs and supports provided by OCHN's service network are available at www.oaklandchn.org.

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