Long Island Families Together

08/14/2026

Must-have tools.

08/14/2026

08/10/2026

https://www.newportinstitute.com/resources/mental-health/loneliness-and-depression-young-adults/?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=nh_spider-man_dtc_both_aug-2026

Feeling lonely increases the risk of mental health conditions—creating an epidemic of loneliness and depression in young adults.

08/10/2026

Long Island Coalition Against Bullying
Need Help? Call (516) 777-7709
https://licab.org/

08/04/2026

Kowert’s research found that nearly 60% of children say they want to play more games with their parents and suggested a system called “SPACE” for parents who want to engage: “Show up with curiosity, Play together, Adjust for context, Cultivate digital citizenship, and Establish boundaries together.”

It's been nearly six decades since the first mainstream video games came out and parents are just as worried about kids gaming now as they were then.

08/01/2026

New York's children's mental health system is at a pivotal moment.

This conversation with Northern Rivers CEO Bill Gettman highlights the difficult work ahead as New York implements the court-approved settlement in *C.K. v. McDonald*—a landmark case requiring the state to redesign its children's behavioral health system so eligible youth can receive the intensive home and community-based services they are entitled to under Medicaid. https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/childservice/proposed-class-action-settlement.html

The discussion raises important questions:
• How will these changes be funded?
• Will there be enough providers and workforce to meet the need?
• How can we reduce the administrative barriers that keep families waiting for help?

For families, providers, advocates, and policymakers, this isn't just a policy conversation—it's about whether children receive the right services at the right time.

As implementation moves forward over the coming year, LIFT encourages families and stakeholders to stay informed, participate in listening sessions, and share ideas for building a system that is easier to navigate, more responsive, and truly family-centered.

🎧 Listen to the interview and let us know: What changes would make the biggest difference for children and families?
https://capitolpressroom.org/2026/07/13/red-flags-with-overhaul-of-youth-mental-health-services/

This notice informs you about the proposed settlement of legal claims in a class action lawsuit against James V. McDonald, the Commissioner of the New York State Department of Health (“DOH”) and Ann Marie T. Sullivan, the Commissioner of the New York State Office of Mental Health (“OMH”).

07/31/2026

07/28/2026

Please consider attending or sending an impact statement to [email protected]

Here's your chance, Long Island Families, to share your experiences with those who control the money! September 2026

07/22/2026

Please consider attending!

The Suffolk County Opioid Settlement Fund Selection Committee is holding a Public Hearing on Thursday, July 30th to gain input from residents on the needs of our communities and where these funds can be best put to use to help alleviate the impact of the opioid epidemic. To submit written testimony, visit https://suffolkcountyny.jotform.com/261793720991063