Due to the ongoing pandemic, the CARE Team meets remotely via Microsoft Teams and continues working referrals as they are submitted.
Beverly Neu Menassa, chair of the CARE Team said they have done plenty of research into current resources available during the pandemic and have put together a list to help students and employees during this time. The list includes financial resources, jobs, ways to reduce bills, relocation or shelter resources, and mental and physical health assistance.
The CARE Team has shared information and guidance with Brookhaven employees to help them identify students in distress through an online environment. They have also provided additional information for employees to share with their students to help make them feel more comfortable with classes going from an in-person experience to online.
During this difficult time, they suggest maintaining a routine, practicing self-care and mindfulness, and reaching out for support if needed. The CARE Team and Brookhaven counselors are still available to help although in-person support is unavailable for now. More information on the CARE Team and all referral forms can be found at www.brookhavencollege.edu/services/care-team

The Campus Assessment, Response and Evaluation Team (CARE Team) is a group of qualified Brookhaven College employees which was created 10 years ago to serve as a support system for students in need of assistance.
The CARE Team provides case management services including essential referrals for students who are seeking assistance with unmet needs for food, shelter, financial obligations or transportation. They also serve as a behavioral intervention team and provide a structured positive method in responding to students whose behavior is reported as being disruptive to themselves or others according to their website.
Qualified employees manage each case in order to get students the appropriate care they need. These individuals who specialize in social work then connect students to resources, employees from disability support services, police officers, faculty and mental health professionals who serve on the team.
A student should be reported if there is a general concern for their physical or mental well-being. The CARE Team’s website lists specific behaviors to look out for when identifying someone who may be in need of support.
The process of reporting an individual is easy and convenient. Anyone can report a student and it is encouraged for students to self-report. The CARE Team has an online referral form that can be filled out on the Brookhaven College website. Once the form has been submitted, a member of the team determines the best way to respond. The student who was referred is contacted within 48 hours, and a plan is made to meet their needs.
Additional off campus resources to reach out to are listed under community resources on the Brookhaven College website. Students can also dial 211 for information about other local resources on health care, utilities, food, shelter and more. The DCCCD nurse help line 972 514 6920 or dcccd.info/DCCCDNurseLine is also available for all students and employees 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday.