The Valley Voice

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Griffin Health to offer free diabetes self-management program

DERBY – The Griffin Center for Healthy Living will host a session of its free diabetes self-management program this March to help empower individuals to improve their well-being.

Living Healthy with Diabetes is a free, six-week diabetes self-management program that engages participants in learning and discussing clinical and lifestyle self-management behaviors to improve their health, blood sugars, emotional wellness, and quality of life.

The program integrates trusted information from the National Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes and The Association of Diabetes Care & Education Curriculum to empower individuals diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes to manage their health and well-being.

There will be a session on Wednesdays March 4, 11, 18, and 25, and April 1 and 8 from 1:30-3 p.m. at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St.

At weekly meetings, Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist Carolyn Gundell, MS, CDCES, will guide participants to manage their well-being with insightful education on healthy eating, weight management, physical activity, medication, glucose technology, health-related risk management, and coping with a chronic condition.

This free wellness program is part of Griffin’s commitment to improve community wellness through free education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease. Griffin’s mission is to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and to go beyond caring for individuals when they are not well by building a meaningful relationship, guiding, and coaching them to maximize their quality of life.

Register at griffinhealth.org/living-healthy-with-diabetes or contact The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up or for more information.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Derby Public Library to host session on online safety for seniors

The Library is at 313 Elizabeth St., Derby.

Watercolor class slated March 2 at Beacon Falls Senior Center

BEACON FALLS - Enjoy a relaxing, beginner-friendly Watercolor Class with Rich DiCarlo at the Beacon Falls Senior Center, 57 N. Main St.

This hands-on class is designed for those new to watercolor as well as anyone looking to explore painting in a low-pressure, supportive environment.

Participants will learn basic watercolor techniques and enjoy the creative process together. The subject of the painting will be revealed the night of the class, adding an element of surprise and fun.

All experience levels are welcome, and no prior painting experience is necessary.

$8 Material Fee

https://www.eventbrite.com/.../watercolor-class-with-rich...

Shared from the Beacon Falls Public Library Facebook page.

City of Derby asks for donations for families displaced by fire Sunday

Dear Residents,

The City of Derby would like to provide an update regarding the fire at 23 Derby Avenue on Sunday, Feb. 8, which resulted in several families being displaced from their homes.

In response, the City has been working closely with St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank and Thrift Shop of Derby, which immediately assisted the affected families by providing access to food, clothing, and other essential items. St. Vincent de Paul will continue to support these families as they address their ongoing needs.

Additionally, the City has coordinated with Valley United Way to establish a secure mechanism for financial donations. Through the generosity of Valley United Way, 100% of all funds donated through this effort will be distributed directly to the displaced families.

Residents wishing to make a financial contribution may do so at the following link:
https://secure.givelively.org/donate/valley-united-way/united-with-our-neighbors-after-the-derby-fire

While immediate needs for clothing and household items are currently being met, continued support is critical in the weeks ahead. The City encourages residents to consider donating to St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank and Thrift Shop or providing financial support to Valley United Way, both of which play an essential role in assisting individuals and families throughout Derby and the greater Valley region.

Call to Action:
The City respectfully requests the community’s assistance in supporting the families affected by the 23 Derby Avenue fire. Donations of any amount are appreciated and will help ensure these families receive the support they need during their recovery.

Thank you for your continued compassion and commitment to our community. Together, we remain Derby Strong.

Sincerely,

The City of Derby

This message was shared from Town Clerk Marc J. Garofalo.