Suffield Community Aid reports higher demand, 86 backpacks distributed and a new strategic plan

Mary Curtin presented the Suffield Community Aid update to the Commission, reporting that SCA distributed 86 backpacks to 51 families this year, a small decline from last year, and that pantry visits and basket distributions are up in usage. "The mail carrier food drive resulted in receiving a good amount of food but less than in years past," the minutes record as part of the SCA report.

Curtin said SCA is working on a strategic plan that has included resident, participant and partner feedback and that the Board will meet with a pro bono consultant in November to plan next steps. She said SCA will collect food on Election Day at the Middle School and will have a table at Suffield on the Green to promote programs. Curtin also noted staff assisting with state program redeterminations and help enrolling residents in Rental Rebate, camperships and farmers market gift cards.

The Commission discussed possible volunteer programs (including restarting a 'Welcome to Suffield' packet) and the increased pressure on residents related to affordability; those governance and volunteer topics were referred to the November agenda for further discussion.