Morano Q&A with O'Grady: DVS partnership with Samaritans
Morano asks O'Grady what DVS should do differently to reach veterans who prefer anonymous help, and whether the city could partner with Samaritans. O'Grady says she introduced herself to the commissioner and they plan to meet, and expresses interest in expanding Samaritans' presence to Staten Island.
I have two brief questions, Mr.
Grady.
One, first of all, thank you for your testimony.
Well done.
You emphasized that Samaritans offers a completely confidential and anonymous hotline.
and that some veterans might be more comfortable seeking help without giving their names or entering a government system.
What should DVS be doing differently to reach those veterans?
Are there opportunities for the city to work more closely with Samaritans to connect veterans with help while protecting that anonymity?
I'm not quite sure, but I think robust discussions and roundtables are great.
And I did go out to the hallway and I introduced myself to the commissioner and we're going to meet.
Wonderful.
My last question, very apropos since today.
And you can do that because the commissioner is still here.
Exactly.
That's how we roll.
Staten Islanders.
Staten Islanders don't leave.
And also, I'd like to do more work in Staten Island.
It's the only borough that we don't have a direct connection with.
Well, let's stay in touch.
I happen to know some people in Staten Island.