Martin Colavito of S.A.L.T. from Catholic Charities spoke at the January 4th meeting.  Each week S.A.L.T.  gets at least 7 calls, which reach all the members of their steering committee.  Marty points out that 7 calls doesn’t necessarily sound like that much, but given the needs of those who seek help, it is a substantial number.

     S.A.L.T. is dedicated to preventing crisis rather than reacting to it.  Their mission is to “create a diverse partnership of agencies and community resources committed to improving the quality of life for the residents of Sullivan County.  Through information sharing and increased prevention efforts, they seek to improve access to services that empower members of the community to make lasting and positive change.”  They work together and get to know the residents of Sullivan County and recognize their needs, so they can be connected to services.  They attempt to be visible and easily accessible in our community at events and on the street.

     S.A.L.T.  can help with finding  jobs, health care, education, child care, addiction, mental health, legal services, housing, immigration, Veteran’s services or any other need that may present itself.  They are comprised of an extensive list of agencies to connect people to the services they need.

    They take care of the immediate needs of those that come to them.  They also guarantee that all that come to them will leave with hope.  Marty admits that they may not have the answer immediately, but they will find the answers needed to assist those seeking help. 

Ultimately, they are hopeful that someday, local organizations will put them out of business at a time when everyone’s needs are met by existing services. 

SALT is a boots on the ground group which knows that they can affect change.  In order to be a member of SALT you must attend one meeting every four months at the government center.  They attempt to make sure all voices  are so they can be represented and heard.