ICAP aims for Head Start in 2018

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Enterprise staff

Julie Wood is new on the job and ready to help.

The community support worker at the Flandreau office of the Interlakes Community Action Partnership has been on the job since Oct. 2.

ICAP covers 14 counties offering a wide variety of programs that include community service, 60s Plus Dining, Head Start, energy assistance, transportation, housing, self sufficiency and help with the health insurance market.

“They’re hoping to have Head Start going again for the Flandreau area,” Wood said. “They’re hoping to find a building that meets federal guidelines.”

Head Start places an emphasis on helping children up to 5 years of age with physical and intellectual development, nutrition, health and social relationships. Parents interested in the program should contact Wood at 997-2824.

Wood is currently busy working on the Angel Trees.

“It benefits children and a lot of the elderly at Christmastime,” Wood said. “We deliver the gifts in time for the holidays.”

Angel tree locations include the Moody County Courthouse, Tractor Supply, First National Bank, Dollar General and the hospital.

Wood, who farms with her husband near Trent, also emphasized the importance of the Affordable Care Act enrollment dates of Nov. 1 through Dec. 15.

“We can put them in contact with people who are called ‘negotiators’ who can get them enrolled,” Wood said.

Wood wants to promote 60s Plus Dining. In Moody County, the program provides reduced price meals for people age 60 and older at John’s Place in Flandreau and The Norseman in Colman.

“I really think it’s a great program,” Wood said. “People need to know it’s here and make use of it.”

ICAP also helps run The Closet, a thrift store adjacent to Wood’s office. The store offers clothing and may also have available dishes, appliances and furniture.

“It could be a little bit of everything,” Wood said.