Support Groups Offer Essential Resources for Local Communities

A variety of support groups are available in the Dallas and Kingston areas, providing critical resources for individuals and families facing various health challenges. These groups meet regularly, offering emotional support, education, and community connection for those dealing with conditions such as Alzheimer’s, grief, and epilepsy.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support

The Dallas Alzheimer’s Support for Caregivers Group convenes at 10 a.m. on the first Thursday of each month at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, located at 474 Yalick Road, Dallas. This group focuses on supporting family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Additionally, a monthly support group hosted by Home Instead, LIFE Geisinger, and Tiffany Court takes place on the first Tuesday of each month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Tiffany Court at Kingston, situated at 700 Northampton St., Kingston. Both groups are free and aim to provide encouragement and resources for caregivers.

Grief Support Initiatives

Several grief support groups are available for those coping with loss. The Grief Share program runs from 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays, beginning January 14 and ending April 1, at Cross Creek Community Church, 370 Carverton Road, Trucksville. This program is open to the public and invites participants to register at griefshare.org/findagroup.

Additionally, a grief support group meets every third Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. This group is a collaborative effort between St. Paul’s and the Prince of Peace Episcopal Church, providing ongoing support for individuals navigating the grief process.

For those seeking a different approach, Church of Christ Uniting hosts a Grief Share program from 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays. This initiative utilizes conversation and video presentations to facilitate healing.

Support for Mental Health and Addiction

The Epilepsy Foundation Eastern Pennsylvania runs monthly support group meetings at the MPL Epilepsy Community and Resource Center, 845 Wyoming Ave., Kingston. Families affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders are encouraged to contact Mary Loughlin, director of the Northeast Region, at 570-592-1150 or via email at [email protected] for the schedule.

For those struggling with substance use challenges, Al-Anon meetings are held at various locations: Saturdays at 7 p.m. at Dorranceton United Methodist Church, Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Brick United Methodist Church, and Sundays at 6 p.m. at Mountainview Community Church. Alateen meetings for young people aged 10 to 19 take place at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center.

The Beehive Area of Narcotics Anonymous serves the Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, Nanticoke, Pittston, and Back Mountain areas with regular meetings that are free of charge. More information on these meetings can be found at nabeehive.org or by calling their 24-hour helpline at 1-866-935-4762.

For individuals and families facing mental health or substance use disorders, the SAMHSA’s National Helpline provides a free, confidential service available 24/7. The helpline can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Resources for Lymphatic Disorders

Individuals with lymphatic disorders such as lymphedema or lipedema can find support at the Hodi Lymphatic Center, which meets every other Monday at 5:30 p.m. at 115 Gateway Shopping Center, Edwardsville. This group welcomes anyone affected by these conditions to attend.

For those interested in submitting support group information, please send details to [email protected] at least one week in advance. These support groups play a vital role in the community by providing necessary resources and fostering connections among individuals facing similar challenges.