Suffield Housing Authority wins $20,000 grant; reports fuller waiting list and rising food assistance needs

The Suffield Housing Authority told the Social Services Commission on Sept. 11 that it was awarded a $20,000 Coming Together Grant to support resident events and services. Jason Joyce said the funds will buy a tent, projector and screen, a popcorn machine, nine metal picnic tables and carts to assist with moving, and that cash donations will be used to purchase meat for residents.

Joyce reported a number of resident events (an ice cream social, pizza party and planned Monday cookouts), partner support from the Rotary Club distributing chicken-dinner tickets, and coordination with the Senior Center for a Halloween trick-or-treat visit for residents who sign up. He said two units were available Sept. 1 and two people were scheduled to move in. Joyce reported there are currently 78 people on the housing waiting list and that the list is closed for now at a three-year wait. He also said there has been a large increase in people using the Food Pantry and that store gift cards (preferred: Suffield Village Market, Walmart, Big Y, Aldi) have been distributed to assist residents.

The update also referenced an ongoing task force to increase housing, listing current members as Colin Moll, Bill Hawkins and Mark Messenger. The Authority said planning is under way for its annual Christmas party and additional cookouts this fall.