HOCC on the Go… April 2020 – May 2022
Faces and Voices of HOCC
Faces and Voices is HOCC’s newest way to keep our community of women safe and connected despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. While maintaining our monthly traditions of health education, empowering conversations, and warming hearts, we have created “HOCC on the go,” an initiative to bring some HOCC smiles and love into the homes of our women. To keep us all safe but connected, we’re posting messages and pictures that our HOCC women send us, featuring their strong voices, their beautiful faces, and their HOCC on the go packets.
Faces and Voices of HOCC
New to HOCC’s Faces / Voices:
HOCC women’s arms have the power…
2022
May Faces and Voices of HOCC
Twenty- Fifth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, May 9th
“National and HOCC’s Health Check-Up Week”
and
“Getting Ready to Return to In-Person Programming“
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Melinda and Maisha you are the first two women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
2022
April Faces and Voices of HOCC
Twenty- Fourth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, April 11th
HOCC’s “”
and
“Substance Use Disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Illness Disorders”
and
“Substance Use as Part of Our Experiences and Relationships”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Alyssa and Millie you are the first two women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
2022
March Faces and Voices of HOCC
Twenty- Third HOCC on the Go…
Monday, March 14th
HOCC’s “National Women & Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day”
and
“National Nutrition Month and “A New Nutritional Life”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Mayra you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
March is here and Spring isn’t far behind. March is a month of changing seasons, when we emerge from the cold and darkness of Winter and enter Spring, with all of the hope for renewal this season brings us – light, warmth, wildflowers, new beginnings. Surviving through the Covid-19 pandemic has felt like 24 months of Winter: being alone, isolated, and often hopeless, but today we are at the edge of Spring. There is lots to celebrate in March, like International Women’s Day, National Women’s History Month, NWGHAAD, St. Patrick’s Day, National Nutrition Month, Gender Equality Month, and even National Potato Chip Day on the 14th! Let’s mark the start of this pivotal month by taking our next steps forward, gathering up our lessons learned, and replenishing our prior healthy goals. Let’s get ready to march into Spring with all we love and care about, and with all we have learned about ourselves and the value of others – our HOCC sisters, friends, family, and community.
Heidi & HOCC Board
2022
February Faces and Voices of HOCC
Twenty- Second HOCC on the Go…
Monday, February 14,
HOCC’s “Matters of the Heart” & “Positive Lifestyle Changes and Improving Heart Health”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Robin and Mayra you are the first women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
Matters of the heart affect us in our core as they stir and move our souls. When we take intentional care of our hearts, with each beat we can live with hope. Matters of the heart represent the most important things in our lives that affect us deeply. They bring us joy and laughter as well as sadness and tears. They are things that touch our hearts, fill our hearts, and break our hearts. Even today, matters of the heart connects us to each other. Take time today to pause and think about the value of keeping your heart healthy. Remember too that you matter. Let today fill your heart with love, know that you are loved, and you are in our hearts. Keep your focus today and every day on the matters of the heart. HOCC certainly does, and soon we can tell each other in person. Keep the beat and remain strong!
Heidi and HOCC Board
2022
January Faces and Voices of HOCC
Twenty- First HOCC on the Go…
Monday, January 10, 2022
HOCC’s “Bone Health” and “Home Strength Training Exercises”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Nancy you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
Welcome to 2022; a new year brings with it hope and the promise of reconnection and renewal. We’ve all been through a lot in the past few years—we’ve weathered uncertainty, isolation and loss. The end of 2021 brought a profound loss for our community: one of HOCC’s pioneers, a dedicated and loyal HOCC sister, and a leader throughout our community, Sylvia, passed away. Today, we need to honor our sister by welcoming the hope of a new year, to be resilient like she modeled for us all, and to remain as strong as she was each day. Let’s make 2022 a new and better year, by being authentic warriors and picking up the torch of health and wellness to light each day with love. Let’s bring to the new year a willingness to positively engage in all that surrounds us. Let’s do this together.
Heidi and HOCC Board
December Faces and Voices of HOCC
Twentieth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, December 13, 2021
HOCC’s “Hearing Health” and “World AIDS Day”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Laura you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
HOCC Monthly Message
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
Peace on Earth – Peace of Mind
When I think of peace on Earth or peace of mind, some of the things I think of are no more COVID-19 outbreaks, no more wars of any kind, and no more global warming because we have stepped up to care for the Earth. I believe peace on Earth and peace of mind go hand in hand: we must embrace the love, the willingness, and the courage to truly make a difference together. The bottom line is that we can’t have peace on earth or peace of mind if we are not all in—not just today during the holiday season, but everyday going forward. As John Lennon sang, “give peace a chance”.
Heidi and HOCC Board
November Faces and Voices of HOCC
Nineteenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, November 18, 2021
HOCC’s Annual “Reflection and Gratitude”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Robin and Brandey you are the first two women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
HOCC Monthly Message
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
It’s the season of giving thanks, and one thing I’m thankful for is that even in the second year of the pandemic, the HOCC community is staying connected. In the spirit of this season, I want to say thank you for remaining strong, staying in touch with each other, and continuing your journey towards health and wellness. We are still navigating through all the challenges and decisions of living through COVID-19, but we may be starting to round the corner towards meeting in-person again in 2022. You are a strong HOCC woman and an amazing warrior – I am thankful you are part of HOCC! Let’s make this coming year a meaningful year, full of gratitude and love.
Heidi and HOCC Board
October Faces and Voices of HOCC
Eighteenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, October 18, 2021
“HOCC’s “Navigating Health During COVID-19 and Beyond Through a Nutritional Lens”
and “Breast Cancer Awareness Month”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Antoinette, Mayra, and Sarah you are the first women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
HOCC Monthly Message
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
Even though HOCC is once more HOCC on the Go, there are some signs of hope that we are headed in the right direction. There have been plenty of ups and downs over the last nineteen months, but now, with the widespread use of COVID vaccinations, the Delta variant wave seems like it’s finally lessening. Still, we can’t let our guard down yet—we need to stay focused, remain strong, be patient, and keep each other safe by getting vaccinated, continuing to wear masks and staying socially distanced when we can. If we can do that, we can enter 2022 together and in-person, with our hearts filled with joy, love, and hope for the future.
September Faces and Voices of HOCC
Seventeenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, September 13, 2021
“Reconnecting to Your Health” & “Preparing for Flu Season”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Antoinette you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
HOCC Monthly Message
Our adorable, masked animals from January 2021 have been brought back, both to bring a smile to your face and to remind you of the value of wearing a mask. We’re working on next steps with the COVID-19 Delta variant blazing, the return of mask mandates for all indoor activities across Massachusetts, and the CDC warning that even if you are fully vaccinated, you can become infected with the Delta variant and spread the virus to others. HOCC has been ahead of the curve—starting in July, with our decision to postpone our in-person meetings, to develop an evolving Common Sense Policy for our return, and to commit to you that we will continue HOCC on the Go until we do return in-person. We’ve got you; you’ll never walk alone with HOCC in your heart!
Heidi and HOCC Board
August Faces and Voices of HOCC
Sixteenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, August 9, 2021
“Overall Brain Health” and “HOCC’s Common Sense Returning to In-Person Policy”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Mayra you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s the importance of social ties, human connections, and maintaining our health and wellness. Ironically, this year has made it difficult to maintain these three essentials of wellbeing while we socially distance, isolate, and engage less in our health care. We are now planning our future return to in-person HOCC meetings and as we do, we are trying to safely restore and refresh our HOCC relationships, which will promote our mental health and our overall brain health—our theme for this month. But planning and adapting can be challenging, given there was a big green light to move forward that has turned into a bigger blinking yellow light telling us to move cautiously onward. We need our HOCC community to remain strong and safe, and we need your help to make it right for everyone. Please be patient with the fact we are taking a pause to returning in-person in the Fall. When we do return, we ask you to embrace our in-person policies with respect and love for ourselves and our sisters without judgement. Hang in there—we are HOCC and we’ve got this!
Heidi & HOCC Board
July Faces and Voices of HOCC
Fifteenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, July 12, 2021
“HOCC’s Laughter Yoga” and “Physical Movement”
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Leah and Sylvia you are the first two women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
Bravo HOCC we did it and we will see you in September! But until then, there remains new controversies involving the removal of the mask mandates – masks or not? HOCC is in the midst of sorting it all out but what we do know is we prefer all people being vaccinated but we will never refuse a woman who wishes to join HOCC programming. HOCC’s philosophy is deeply rooted in social equality and justice – HOCC is for all women infected, affected, or a risk for HIV. Today we will continue to welcome all women to HOCC vaccinated or not vaccinated – we are all on the same journey towards health and wellness some maybe further along than others, but we will all help each other move forward as we have for the past 24 years. We promise we will make HOCC safe and welcoming for all starting with cute masks, strong policies, and now food on the go….
Heidi and HOCC Board
June Faces and Voices of HOCC
Fourteenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, June 14, 2021
HOCC Celebrates Our 24th Anniversary!
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Sarah and Alyssa you are the first two woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces and Masks!!!
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
Be courageous. Be brave. Be safe. Be ready. These are words we have heard day in and day out since the beginning of the COVID pandemic. If we were not courageous, brave, safe, and ready before, we certainly are now—and so much more! We are powerful, strong, loving women. We know our journey forward will continue while the threat of COVID finally shrinks. This is the time we have prepared for over the last 15 months: we are ready to fearlessly embrace changes to build a safer, more inclusive, and more equal new normal, filled with compassion, fairness, and equality for all.
Happy 24th Anniversary HOCC!!!
Heidi and HOCC Board
May Faces and Voices of HOCC
Thirteenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, May 10, 2021
11th Annual Health Fair on the 22nd Annual National Women’s Health Check-Up Day
And
Annual Domestic Violence: Healthy Relationships vs Unhealthy Relationships
Getting Ready
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Mayra you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
North Shore Meets South Shore
New Faces
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
Spring has sprung, the promised May flowers are blooming, the air is fresh, the sun is warming our face, and many people’s prayers are being answered. April ended with significant progress in reducing COVID-19 infections as more people get vaccinated, and with an important step toward accountability, social justice, and reform. What comes to my mind today is a decades old song, sung by Dionne Warwick during a period when the Vietnam crisis, civil unrest, and social divides loomed in our country. The message is simple and just as relevant today: “What the world needs now is love, sweet love. It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of. What the world needs now is love, sweet love. No not just for some, but for everyone.” Stay strong, plant your seeds, watch them grow, and share the love! We’ve got this!!!
Heidi & HOCC Board
April Faces and Voices of HOCC
Twelfth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, April 10, 2021
“Prioritize Sleep: The Value of Sleep”
Getting Ready
April Faces and Voices of HOCC
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Mayra you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces
Spring is in the air and HOCC women are sharing and expanding their families!!!
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
Two things we know: April showers bring May flowers, and the light at the end of the tunnel is getting closer and so much brighter. This Spring, with the hope brought by the vaccine, it feels like we are on a launching pad to a fresh new horizon ahead of us. We certainly are in the midst of an evolving and changing time—and yes, necessary change. One thing I know is that change is happening like the change of seasons as we now move into Spring. Things are a-changing, and thank goodness they are! We have choices today, and you can witness the change, you can be the change, or you can accept and become one of the changed. It is the moment we have talked about all year – justice and equality for all. So bring in those May flowers – and don’t forget to stop and smell the roses!
Heidi and HOCC Board
March Faces and Voices of HOCC
Gene Greear Gore
January 4, 1932 to March 21, 2021
RIP
Some of you may remember this beloved face from past HOCC luncheons that Gene attended. She usually sat up front at the first table on the left. Gene was an AIDS activist since the early days of the crisis, when she was a visiting nurse in San Francisco to homebound people battling the virus. Gene loved HOCC and HOCC women and always looked forward to the second Monday of the month. She donated regularly to Miss Piggy and would give me a small amount to feed her when she couldn’t attend our luncheon. She is a bright light who will be sorely missed.
–Marjorie C
March Faces and Voices of HOCC
Eleventh HOCC on the Go…
Monday, March 8, 2021
15th Annual National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
AND
National Nutrition Month
Getting Ready
March Faces and Voices of HOCC
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Sylvia you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces
Spring is in the air and HOCC women are getting ready!!!
May Faces and Voices of HOCC
Thirteenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, May 10, 2021
It has now been a full year since we gathered in-person—a year which was incredibly long, and yet last March feels like yesterday. Everything in the world turned upside down and nothing has been as we expected, but nonetheless, we are getting through this convoluted maze. Today, there is a new horizon ahead of us: you can feel it in the air, our hearts, and our souls. We are emerging from the darkness of last spring and into the sunlight in front of us. We are certainly ready, and some of us are already armed (or soon to be armed) with the vaccines that will help us move safely over the final hurdles to normalcy. As we move forward, we welcome the light of change and wellness, and of new opportunities. What is most important for you to do now is to keep doing what has kept you safe and well this past year, stay focused, and remain strong. We will not only return to HOCC in the future, but we have a new year ahead. Embrace this moment—you got this!
Heidi and HOCC Board
February Faces and Voices of HOCC
Tenth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, February 8, 2021
“Matters of the Heart“
Thank You Laura!!!
Getting Ready
February Faces and Voices of HOCC
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Sylvia and Mayra you are the first two women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces
Voices of HOCC
HOCC Monthly Message
February has always been the month associated with matters of the heart. A year from the start of the COVID pandemic, our hearts have been challenged by reduced access to physical activities and fresh foods, negatively impacted by changes in our relationships or by losing loved ones, and disillusioned by the deepening of social injustice and inequality. Yes, our hearts have been tested, but through all of the challenges, we are stronger today and we are still connected. Today, our hearts are refilling with hope and there is much needed change on the horizon. We are ready – ready to create something better, built by forgiving hearts and nurturing love. Embrace the change, be the change, and let us all grow together to make this coming year the change we need for a better future for everyone. Remain strong and healthy.
Heidi and the HOCC Board
January Faces and Voices of HOCC
Ninth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, January 11, 2021
“A Good New Normal: Embracing 2021 with Hope” and “Community Kids Care About HOCC”
Thank You Laura!!!
Getting Ready
Thank You Tracy!!!
January Faces and Voices of HOCC
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Mayra and Edythe you are the first two women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces
Voices of HOCC
“I certainly needed this today – we all need HOCC on the Go – I mean a nation should receive this love and respect! But as you always say we have hope and we got this – but it’s harder than other days.”
” I received your wonderful New year’s 2021 gift this afternoon and I am sending all my thanks to you and once again sending all my appreciation for the months you comfort us in this trying times with your unconditional thoughts you do need a medal for this on going work. I send you some pictures of the gift package I received today. Once again thank you.”
“Thank you soooo much! Everything is amazing and I LOVE the cute masked cards – I am QUEEN for the Day!!! I know they are all smiling under their masks like me – I have a big smile today and not a day that has many smiles – thank you HOCC!”
“I love the kids collage it is very touching to be sent so much love from HOCC and their families!”
“The HOCC Board video was amazing – brought lot’s of tears but good tears today.”
“Thank you HOCC for keeping us all connected and even health and wellness informed like we were still in the room! This HOCC teal mailer has been my lifeline – don’t know what I would do without HOCC!!!”
“I finally got my HOCC today!!! I guess the mail still is having problems but not HOCC – you got us!!!”
“Thank you for my birthday card – the only one I received! AND I even got my teal beads in the mailer – amazing! Funny, I almost hear the women signing Happy Birthday to me!!! Thank you”.
“Love the kids project and the video AND the TEAL is always wonderful!!!”
“Today I got hope in a bag and in my heart – thank you HOCC”.
“Thank you – everything in the bag is such a treat! Can’t believe I have created a new normal HOCC in my home. When I receive the teal I open it up, check out my raffle numbers, pour a hot cup of STASH tea – flavor of the month, and start reading all of wonderful materials – perfect this month about selfcare tips and artwork to enjoy! I really needed this – I am very safe in my home as the country is not!”
“Thank you for staying connected to me and then helping me stay connected with others – love this website”!
“This might be my favorite TEAL yet! I so love the messages you send every month and this month the card itself was perfect! The masked adorable animal faces made me smile and I certainly need smiles today!”
HOCC Monthly Message
Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic began, we have been advised to physically distance, isolate, and wear a mask to help reduce the spread of the virus. We need to keep doing all these things, now more than ever before. 2020 has been a year when most of us have retreated into our own safe bubble, venturing out only when necessary. Yes, we have endured many challenges and losses over the past ten months, but we can’t lose sight of what emerged during those dark days and nights: the spirit of hope. We have hope from the development of a vaccine, but we also have hope from a rekindled focus on social justice, kindness, truth, and humanity. This cannot be just another moment in time – it is the time to embrace much needed changes to create a safer, more inclusive, and more equal new normal filled with compassion, fairness, and equality for all.
As I have said each month, we’ve got this – let’s take this journey forward together to help make the difference for a healthier, better tomorrow for all of us. Stay strong and remain well!
Heidi and the HOCC Board January 1, 2021
December’s Faces and Voices of HOCC
Eighth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, December 14, 2020
HOCC’s Annual: World AIDS Day and Holiday Flair
December 1, 2020 World AIDS Day – 40 years and counting since the AIDS epidemic
HOCC Putting On Her Red Ribbons…
HOCC Women Raising Awareness
Getting Ready
December’s Faces and Voices of HOCC!
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Tonia and Sylvia you are the first two women to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces
Voices from HOCC
“I felt like a kid again opening the Holiday Flair – what fun”
“All of these creative things will make it easier for me through these terrible times – will keep me busy”
“Love the red holiday mask perfect for Worlds AIDS Day and Christmas!”
“You have brought us hope each month and now were are really close to it all coming true – we just have to hold on a bit more – wear our masks and keep our distance – you have been right all along – we got this — thank you so much!!!”
“HOCC is the best and I will do my best for HOCC in 2021!”
“You have brought our much needed Christmas cheer into our homes – I will not feel alone with all of you beside my heart!”
“I will decorate my tree with HOCC this year and will not feel alone for I will drink my Christmas Morning tea and dream of hope for 2021 and seeing my HOCC sisters soon – THANK YOU HOCC!!!”
“I love you HOCC!!! We are great!! We are strong!! AND I love you for all you do – the mailings each month, all the reading information, the evaluations and the list goes on…” Thank you HOCC!!!
“It’s amazing we are given choices every month such as our snack or being asked for our opinions like the kinds of masks we prefer, or tea flavors we like, or topics we want to hear more about. But what is really important to say is that you all try and give us what we want – what matters to us and we see it in our next mailings”.
“Every month feels like HOCC in person – thank you – I don’t feel so alone!!!”
HOCC Monthly Message
It’s time for HOCC on the Go once again, now over nine months since the start of COVID, and almost halfway through the holiday season; certainly, it’s been a challenging year. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of things to be grateful for, like finding new ways to stay connected to our friends and families, which may even bring us closer together than we were before. This holiday season is also a time for us to accept and embrace the importance of science, and be guided by experts and not rhetoric as we navigate through this pandemic and focus on our health and wellness. It’s a time to learn and understand what truly matters to us and those around us, and to stand up for each other and for justice. And most importantly, it’s a time to embrace hope and the promise on our horizon, where we can live proudly and where equality can reign without exception.
Enjoy this season, remain strong, and look forward to a healthier 2021!
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Seventh HOCC on the Go…
Monday, November 9, 2020
HOCC’s Annual: “Reflection and Gratitude”
Getting Ready
November’s Faces and Voices of HOCC!
Arrival
Breaking Good News!!!
Congratulations Sylvia you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
HOCC at Home
New Faces
HOCC Women’s Wellness Strategies During COVID-19: Getting ready for the winter, giving thanks, and raising awareness for World AIDS Day – December first!
Voices from HOCC
Since the first day I entered HOCC I have been grateful to HOCC! They saved my life from shame, guilt, and almost losing my children – I am thankful everyday not just this month of gratitude.
I miss HOCC in-person BUT I am so grateful that HOCC visits me at home and on our website!!!
I don’t know how HOCC does what it does for us it but I know I can’t do this pandemic without it.
Thank you HOCC Board that video was really amazing. I really loved seeing everyone’s face and hear your voices – can’t wait until we meet in-person again!
My message to you in just three words – I LOVE HOCC! HOCC has been my saving Grace.
Thank you for everything and getting your beautiful birthday card in the mail today – on my birthday was so beautiful – my first one!!!
Your cards and your words of hope each month I look forward to and it really helps me all month long!
Since I lost my mommy in March today’s been the first day I actually feel like there’s a possibility of Hope!!! Thank You-
I really love reading all of the papers you send us – and now I have created a new HOCC tradition – drinking a hot cup of Stash tea while I read every word – all of the flavors are delightful!!! Thank you!!!
I love getting HOCC in the mail – and it’s just for me – sometimes I share with my kids but it’s still mine!!!
I am thankful for life, seeing a new day, and HOCC all day long!
God bless our second Mondays of the month!
HOCC Monthly Message
In the spirit of this season, let me begin with a warm thank you to our HOCC family for helping us fill the Faces and Voices page on our website. By doing so, you have brought much needed smiles and joy to our community of women! Check it out when you have time at www.hoccprograms.org/gallery. These are unprecedented times, where everything feels like it is moving lightning fast and yet incredibly slowly. Today our winter holiday season is fast approaching, beginning with Thanksgiving in just two weeks! Normally, we have our own traditions to prepare for, but this month, like the last eight months, we have to pause and wonder about rescheduling, postponing, or reimagining this holiday of friends and family gathering to give thanks. Now, we must envision a safer plan to celebrate this season of gratitude. You all have been doing the right thing by faithfully wearing your mask, practicing social distancing, and remaining as strong and focused as you can be given the circumstances. You are strong HOCC women—maybe even invincible—and you know what needs to be done to live safely.
Enjoy and stay in touch!
Heidi and HOCC’s Board!
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Sixth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, October 19, 2020
HOCC’s Annual: “Women and Trans Women’s Health”
Getting Ready
October’s Faces and Voices of HOCC!
Arrival
Congratulations Alyssa you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
HOCC at Home
New Faces of HOCC
HOCC Women’s Wellness Strategies During COVID-19: Getting ready for the winter, voting, and giving thanks.
Voices from HOCC
The website is fabulous I went through all different kinds of emotions looking at all the ladies and all the wonderful things done for us — it is beautiful! I’m crying, I’m laughing, I’m having all kinds of feelings – oh my goodness I miss everybody – I love you all – I’m so happy to be a part of this – this is my life!
I love the card and I will keep smiling!
I can’t believe this pandemic continues to keep us from our friends and family – but HOCC has found a way to keep us together and gives us something to look forward to every month! Believe me, HOCC has helped me be ok and well and I remain surrounded by my HOCC sisters 24/7 when I visit our website.
I am sending smiles to you all.
Today, I will wear my new pin to support our Trans-sisters — thank you HOCC for supporting all women!!!
HOCC is rally for all women — FOR REAL!!!
HOCC always stands by us 24/7!
Things are hard right now and who knows what the outcome of the election will be — we can only pray — what I know as well of my HOCC sisters is that we do have a good outcome because of HOCC!!!
HOCC Monthly Message
Once again, we’re bringing HOCC to the safety of each others’ homes. Not much has changed, and yet everything is changing. COVID continues to linger and cases have even started to increase again, yet mask wearing is on the decline. Go figure, but we do know for sure that masks save lives — so make sure to wear yours! I know it’s hard, since when we wear our masks we miss the smiles, and even a quick flash of a smile can last forever in our memory. Take a second and think about one of those smiles; I know that always makes me feel better. Today when I need a smile, I go to our HOCC website, where there are so many smiles to enjoy! Research backs this up: a simple smile can make you feel happier and less stressed. My challenge to you during this tough time is to be the reason someone smiles today!
Heidi and HOCC’s Board
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Faces and Voices of HOCC
Fifth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, September 14, 2020
HOCC’s “Women, Mental Health and Wellness”
Getting Ready
September’s Faces and Voices of HOCC!
The Arrival
Congratulations Mayra you are the first woman to receive HOCC on the Go today!!!
HOCC at Home
New Faces of HOCC
HOCC Women’s Wellness Strategies During COVID-19: Gardening, Painting, Baking, Photography, and Anniversaries!
HOCC Celebrates Women 24/7
Congratulations JoAnn – 11 Years and Counting!
Voices from HOCC
We truly appreciate all you do!
HOCC has landed – thank you!
Thank you! I thank you very much – it is a very nice package! The book and pen is wonderful I love writing – I write every down when I am at church- have a blessed night!
I love the mailer – it might be my most favorite one yet! Thank you!!
I like everything in this package!
Happy happy – joy joy!
Love the mask – so soft and fits great – full coverage – thanks!
Love the book- always writing my thoughts down on pieces of paper and then loose them – this is perfect! Much thanks.
The puzzles we get in the mailer are great – they help keep my mind off of things – thank you – it realty helps!
Thank you for all you do for us!!!
I love the puzzles – it would be great to have puzzles every month – real good for me thanks!
Happy Monday HOCC – best day of the month for me – can’t believe you have kept us all together and safe for 5 months – thank you HOCC sisters!
God thank you for all your help – you are a terrific lady – believe me – thanks HOCC!
This is so beautiful thank you so much I am going to enjoy all of it – thank you so much sending you many prayers!
The teal HOCC on the Go is the cherry on top – but the best thing is staying connected, text messages every week, and funny to say, the waiting for the second Monday of each month! Thank you HOCC – no one else could do this except for HOCC!
I got my HOCC birthday card in the mail this week – HOCC does not forget! It was the only one I got-thank you!
Thank you so much! The work and the love that went behind this! I love the journal, my mask, my CVS card! My positive affirmation the most! I’m so loved unconditionally.
Your cards you write to us every month are amazing and so inspirational and real – Hallmark might be calling you! Thank you!!!
I can’t believe that HOCC keeps us informed and safe with all the information we get each month – NO, I can believe it! Thank you – HOCC you always help me stay well!
Happy Monday evening. I just want to say thank you for the journal and I love the word search book – I love working on them!
I love HOCC! Masks masks and more masks – thank God HOCC knows how much we need them and the new white one is wonderful soft – feels good and breathable. AND HOCC being HOCC they want to know which one is best for me – and more choices are coming! THANK YOU!
I love getting our HOCC educational information each month – now I sit down with my HOCC tea and can take time reading my handout! I am well today and I will stay well! Thank you HOCC!
I just received the amazing HOCC package! Thank you.
Good Tuesday Morning! Thanks again HOCC for the wonderful gift and all the goodies along with it. I am continuing to appreciate a;; the hard and good work you are doing in this trying time. Thangs again Heidi and HOCC – Always!
HOCC Monthly Message
The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly changed the way we live. Coupled with what we are going through as a nation, it is something we will never forget–it will be etched in our minds, our hearts, and will be a part of our souls. Not only do the COVID-19 outbreak, the physical distancing, and the isolation challenge our daily life, but this summer, we’re fighting systemic racism, attempts to divide our communities with fear and hate, and the deepening splits within our nation. Each of these affects our mental health and wellness. Yes, it has been a crazy time, but the good thing is, we are not alone: we have each other, and HOCC is doing our best to keep us connected. So, for now, take a break, lean on one another, hold onto good news, and use our materials to help keep you safe and well all day long.
Don’t forget to get ready to HOCC the Vote!
Heidi and HOCC’s Board
Faces and Voices of HOCC
Fourth HOCC on the Go…
Monday, August 10, 2020
HOCC’s Annual: Women and Their Brain
Getting Ready
August’s Faces and Voices of HOCC!
The Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces of HOCC
Voices from HOCC
You know one thing I always look for is your message – it gives me hope every time.
Stay safe everyone – miss you all!
Thanks for all you do for me – us!!!
Another wonderful HOCC on Go with a beautiful card – thank you!
Thanks HOCC – thanks for the sunshine!
What a fun way to start my day – the mailer was at my door this morning – thank you!
I am a winner! Talk about making a day better – Thanks HOCC!
I so miss going to the HOCC meetings, but I love the beautiful card!!!
Yayyy!!! Christmas in August!!! Thank you!!!
I’ve been working on some Art!
Oooh I got some of my favorites!!! Ginger tea and the bag is so cool – love it!!!
God bless U – you have an
This time has been very challenging to me, when I get HOCC mail it makes me happy!
Thank you so much or the opportunity! The fact that you are doing this for me/us is so beautiful – you didn’t have to continue HOCC during these uncertain times, but I for one are extremely grateful that you are. Thank you again, be safe and blessed.
I so look forward to the second Monday of each month – just like before COVID-19. And all the calls and texts and follow ups all month long make this period feel safe and good for me – thank you HOCC!!!
HOCC Monthly Message
It’s been several months now since most of us have attended in-person support meetings, have visited and ate dinner with friends and family, or have been to work, the gym, or hairdressers. We’re even having most of our contact with our health care providers virtually or on the phone, and this likely will continue at least for the next few months. Many of us are not sleeping well, our hands are dry from too much hand sanitizer, and our brains are foggy from listening to or reading too much about COVID-19. So for today, take a step back and pay attention to your mental and physical needs during this challenging time. Remember, we need to think about safety first–it’s about taking care of your health and wellness. I promise, you’ll be glad you did.
Heidi and the HOCC Board
Faces and Voices of HOCC
Third HOCC on the Go…
Monday, July 13, 2020
HOCC’s Annual: Healthy Relationships
Getting Ready
July’s Faces and Voices of HOCC!
The Arrival
HOCC at Home
New Faces of HOCC
Voices from HOCC
“Like branches on a tree we may grow in different directions yet our roots remain as one.”
This quote was sent to us as a way to sum up her feelings about HOCC. (thank you Tracy)
The message in my card hit home! By the