At the end of October, I attended a Town Hall here in Wyandotte County hosted by Vibrant Health, which featured a presentation by Kansas Action for Children. The discussion centered on how national policies are affecting local children and families. We talked about the impact of cuts to SNAP benefits, uncertainty surrounding the government shutdown, and how that’s left many wondering whether they’ll have what they need to get through the month.
There were also conversations about concerns over immigration policies and potential increases in healthcare premiums—issues that leave many families anxious about their future. As someone who has spent years as a therapist, I know how much this kind of uncertainty can affect our mental and emotional well-being. When people don’t know how they’ll put food on the table or afford healthcare, it takes a toll.
It would be easy to walk away from that discussion feeling deflated. But I’m choosing instead to focus on what’s giving me hope. And I hope it does the same for you. In the face of uncertainty, people in our community continue to step up for one another. When families faced disruptions to their food benefits, local restaurants offered free meals. Churches, businesses, and nonprofits organized food drives. Neighbors checked in on each other. Time and again, Wyandotte County proves that when times get hard, we show up for one another.
That same spirit drives everything we do at Wyandot BHN. We will continue to advocate for those we serve and for this community, pushing for policies that support people experiencing homelessness, those navigating mental health challenges, and everyone’s right to affordable healthcare.
There’s a lot we can’t control right now. But I find hope in the compassion and resilience of this community. In this season of Thanksgiving, I’m especially grateful for all who continue to care, give, and help one another through uncertain times.
