Neuhaus: “… a holistic
approach …”
GOSHEN – Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus was recognized today by the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) and the National Association of Counties (NACo) for implementing an innovative new program to feed hungry children, prevent juvenile crime, and expand higher educational opportunities in the county.
“We are taking a holistic approach to care for our most vulnerable families,” Neuhaus said. “That includes feeding children if they are hungry, offering valuable counseling to our youth and their family, and helping them access social and educational programs that can most benefit them.”
The combined programs are part of Neuhaus’ “Orange Cares” campaign, and were selected as part of a 100 Brilliant Ideas at Work Award Program initiated by NACo. The campaign was formally recognized this week at the NYSAC Annual Meeting in Syracuse.
“These brilliant ideas can serve as examples for counties across the country,” said NACo President Bryan Desloge. “Though no two of America’s 3,069 counties are exactly alike, many face similar challenges and can learn from one another’s ideas and experiences.”
Orange Cares includes three initiatives targeted to help young people in Newburgh, New York. They include 1. feeding hungry children 2. changing how the community deals with juvenile delinquency; and 3. expanding higher education opportunities. Orange Cares has been implemented in five school districts, including two cities that are historically low-income, and serves approximately 500 students each month.
Orange Cares has prioritized Juvenile Justice Reform in the County Attorney’s Office, Probation, and the Department of Social Services with a goal of dealing with the root cause of juvenile crimes.
