Hands & Hearts Together: Celebrating Our Legacy
Mark your calendars today for Hands & Hearts Together, our annual celebration! We will be celebrating our 55th anniversary AND honoring Barbara A. Shaw, our Executive Director, as she retires after over two decades here at Hands On Hartford. Stay tuned for information about our online auction, event entertainment, and tickets (including early-bird pricing) this summer.
Giving Back Through Backpacks
When one thinks of “childhood hunger”, perceptions of what that “looks like” can vary widely amongst different people, sometimes calling to mind graphic images in the news. It is vital to note, however, that hunger can often present in an inconspicuous tone in our society, often hiding behind the agitation and aggression of a child who is wrestling with behavioral issues, or the frustration of a student who has trouble concentrating, retaining information, or staying awake in the classroom, or the student whose grades consistently fall below those of their classmates’ or of their own potential. What we may presume to be symptoms of mental health issues or “just being a kid”, can often actually be a symptom of a different trigger – that of malnourishment. Kids, just as adults, need not only enough food, but enough quality foods, to keep their brain and body healthy enough to learn, grow and be challenged.
According to “Feeding America”, a “nationwide network of food banks, food pantries and local meal programs…[whose goal is to] help people get the food and resources they need to thrive”, 13 million children in the U.S. are food insecure and 1 in 5 children are categorized as “facing hunger”. Further, according to Feeding America’s most recent data from their 2022 “Map the Gap” report, in the Capitol Planning Region alone (which includes Hartford), the food insecurity rate amongst children is 16.7% or a staggering 33,520 children. Additionally, data reports 1 in 6 children in Connecticut are experiencing hunger. (Additional info can be found at https://map.feedingamerica.org)
In light of this ongoing crisis, in 2006, Hands On Hartford introduced the kids’ weekend “Backpack Nutrition Program”, starting with 2 elementary schools. The program has grown significantly since its inception, evolving into partnerships with eight Hartford schools (including Breakthrough North, Burns, Covenant Prep, Dwight, MLK, Parkville, Trinity Academy, and Wish) and providing food for over 225 children identified, by their respective school, as “food insecure” or “facing hunger”. Through participant surveys, it was also discovered that the majority of students enrolled in the Backpack Nutrition Program actually end up sharing their meals with sibling(s), further stressing the importance and need for this initiative. The work is supported by an incredible team of Hands On Hartford employees and about 30 volunteers, who split their time throughout the week sorting, stocking, labeling, counting, packing and delivering the backpacks each and every Thursday throughout the school year.
Food included in the backpacks are healthy snacks and nutritious, easy-to-make meals that these students can prepare without the help of a parent (i.e. fresh fruit, oatmeal, healthy cereal with shelf-stable milk, chicken noodle soup, mac & cheese, granola bars, etc.). Providing nutritious meals that kids can easily prepare themselves helps to ensure that every child who participates in the program is able to access the nutrients they need, regardless of their family’s circumstance at home, and return to school each Monday, well-nourished and ready to learn. As an added bonus, thanks to generous donors, backpacks are often enhanced with a different specialty goodie that the kids can look forward to, including gifts such as coloring books, sticker packets, school supplies, hot cocoa kits, winter accessories, resources for parents and more.
One of the Backpack Nutrition Program’s recipients for the past several years is Trinity Academy, formerly located in the Asylum Hill neighborhood of Hartford and now situated in the West End at Immanuel Congregational Church. This independent, privately-funded, tuition-free elementary school serves grades one through four and is tailored for students from historically underserved communities. Their mission is “to provide Hartford area children with an exceptional elementary school education, emphasizing equity and diversity, and an individualized learning plan for each student.” Further, Trinity Academy also “fosters a nurturing and inclusive environment that values family, community, and personal growth” while empowering their students through “intensive academics that include the arts, literacy, critical thinking, and socio-emotional learning”, ultimately “instilling a love of learning for a successful future.”
Barton Darney, Director of Development for Trinity Academy, shared the impact of Hands On Hartford’s Backpack Nutrition Program for the students at her school. “The program has really helped our families, especially with those who are food insecure, knowing they are going home with food every week. We, at Trinity Academy, like to offer wrap-around services- to provide everything the students need to succeed at school. We’ve sensed a big improvement since the Backpack Nutrition Program was introduced. Our students have a sense of wellbeing and a sense of security knowing they have those backpacks full of food when they go home. It really does improve learning. People don’t often think about the fact that if these students get fed at school, they will do better at school. Though Trinity Academy provides students free meals throughout the week, they may not have access to food they need on the weekends. What’s special about our school is that our motto is “Kids Come First”. We really focus on how we can remove any barriers to learning and the Backpack Nutrition Program is a huge part of helping to remove obstacles.”
Hands On Hartford’s Director of Partnerships & Support, Donna Colliton, shared further insight from her previous employment as Executive Director of Trinity Academy. “Studies show that Hartford is a food desert and it’s often difficult to be able to find, and afford, produce and other types of healthy foods, therefore many families often opt for cheaper and faster options such as fast food, which, in most cases, results in poor nutrition and the risk of childhood obesity and other related health issues. Our Backpack Nutrition Program helps to introduce healthier options for families who may otherwise not have the access or means to purchase them and will hopefully replace unhealthy alternatives.”
Another part of what makes the Backpack Nutrition Program truly special is the comradery and dedication of the volunteers who commit to their designated tasks each week, ensuring all of the backpacks are packed uniformly and delivered on time to the students throughout the school year. Beth Ferrari, a member of Avon Congregational Church, alongside other members of her church, have been volunteering with the Backpack Program since November 2020.
Beth shared that her group’s drive to show up each and every Wednesday of the school year, in the height of the pandemic and beyond, has been motivated by a strong desire to support children and their families experiencing food insecurity. “I think it’s really important for us to know we are supporting so many children, and their families, who have very serious needs and that we are supplying easy-to-prepare foods for them every weekend”. She goes on to explain that, “What we all like about the actual volunteer work is that it’s relatively easy to do because the tasks assigned to us have already been organized and planned out [by a Hands On Hartford staff member] and shared by other volunteers throughout the week. My specific group assembles the bags through a “grab and fill” method, which is easy to do. A lot of us have to organize things in our personal lives so it brings us joy getting to give back, but to be able to
just show up and pack the bags, knowing the more difficult part of planning has already been taken care of…plus, my group gets to be the ones to finish packing the backpacks up, which is so rewarding.”
Unlike what many assume, food for the program is not supported by government funding, but instead purchased from generous grants and internal fundraising efforts. The program also relies on in-kind donations of food and enhancement items from individuals, schools, faith-based communities, small businesses and corporations, many of who host collection drives and packing events.
The need for financial and in-kind support is ongoing. We invite those interested in making a monetary or in-kind donation to reach out to our Director of Partnerships & Support, Donna Colliton, at 860-706-1538 or dcolliton@handsonhartford.org. We thank you for your support and consideration!
Open letter and reflection by Jackie Kasinskas, Community Engagement Coordinator
I’d like to start off by saying thank you to the Hands On Hartford staff and volunteers. Your presence at Hands On Hartford is both a celebration of all of us and testament to the community that we have built together.
I was welcomed into the Hands On Hartford team during the height of the pandemic. We had no idea how long this was going to last or the severity of the situation. Our team showed up every day to provide support to the folks we serve. I remember feeling so grateful for having the opportunity to work at this non-profit making a difference during such a scary and unparalleled time.
I continue to be inspired by all the staff who are committed to keeping our doors open to serve our community in a safe, welcoming, and dignified way. When in conversations with people, they are always surprised that we have remained open through all of the pandemic surges. We have truly become the place folks could count on.
When I reflect upon the volunteers, I am grateful for both the motivation and commitment that they have shown in making a difference throughout this time. From packing grocery bags in the pantry to serving our daily meals, all while wearing masks and shields and adhering to the safety precautions. I was inspired by both our new volunteers and our seasoned volunteers who continued serving in our programs to ensure our neighbors were gaining access to the resources they needed.
Throughout all of the chaos, pivots, twists and turns, this team still made time to laugh and support one another. From Pauline’s and Debbie’s dance moves, to dressing up creatively for the Walk Against Hunger theme days, it’s the moments and conversations between the big events that really stand out in my mind. Those moments are what I’ll remember most. Remember when Avon Old Farms brought us thousands of toys for Toy Shoppe and Janet made the all-call on the intercom asking anyone to help move them? I was so grateful to have the staff and volunteers help bring the toys up bag by bag and jump in at a moment where we desperately needed the support.
At the most recent staff “breathing break,” Megyn invited us to think about stories; the stories we tell ourselves, the stories of those around us, the stories we live out in our daily lives. We each have our own stories based on the experiences of our lives. We impact each other and become a piece of one another’s stories.
You each have impacted me in many different ways. Your kindness, tenacity, and the love you put out in the world have continued to inspire me. Through conversations, I have learned bits and pieces of your stories. And now, Hands On Hartford and the community we have built have become a piece of each of our stories as well.
I feel so grateful that I have had the opportunity to work with all of you. I’ll leave you with this, don’t forget to compost! Thank you for being part of my story.
Easter Sunday Community Meal
Join us for a free Easter Sunday meal featuring beef kielbasa with peppers and onions, mac & cheese, salad, corn & carrots, fruit salad and carrot cake! The meal will be served at 11:30 am Sunday, April17, but you are welcome to come in for a cup of coffee at 10am. Bring your family and celebrate the season with your Hartford neighbors – all are welcome! No registration is required. For a flyer, click here: Easter Meal Flyer
An Intern’s Reflection
Reflecting back on my time with Hands On Hartford is difficult because there is so much to say! I began my internship experience with the community engagement team. This area gets very busy in the fall, which also happens to be when I started. Around September this organization is getting ready for the holidays, and there is a ton of work that needs to go into preparing for the various events that happen around the end of the year. It was fast-paced and fun, and I learned about coordinating volunteers for the different services that are offered at HOH. The volunteers make all of the work that is done at HOH possible, and working and learning alongside such dedicated and selfless individuals was a amazing experience. It was also an honor to help with the organization of the annual Toy Shoppe held at Hands On Hartford and take part in an event that brought families such incredible joy.
I was fortunate enough to intern with the development team as well. This area operates at a different pace, but is no less busy than the community engagement team. In this role, I was able to do some prep-work for the organization’s annual report, create informational material for the Walk Against Hunger, and assist in the creation of the January newsletter. I also got quite a bit more interaction with the clients that utilize the services here daily, and I loved being able to assist them with the knowledge that I have acquired through working here. Though I have only interned with two areas, I have learned from every part of this organization. I was encouraged to ask questions, even if these questions did not relate to my role, and they were always answered with immense care and detail.
Working within this organization has also taught me a great deal about myself. It helped me to firmly establish my future career goals, and provided me both the experience and one of the recommendations I needed to get accepted into graduate school. I look forward to what the future has in store, and I am grateful for the role that Hands On Hartford has played in helping me to get there. My time with Hands On Hartford is not quite over, and I’m excited to see what more I can learn while I am still here!
New Year’s Day Meal for the Community
Join us for a free New Year’s Day meal featuring beef brisket, baked potato casserole and pie! (And plenty more.) The meal will be served at 11:30 am Saturday, January 1, but you are welcome to come in out of the cold early at 10am. Celebrate the beginning of a new year with your Hartford neighbors – all are welcome! No registration is required. This event is sponsored by Max Cares Foundation, and First Church of Christ in Simsbury. For a flyer, click here: New Years Meal 2022 v2
Christmas Day Meal for the Community
Join us for a free Christmas Day meal featuring honey-glazed ham and plenty more on Saturday, December 25. The meal will be served at 11:30 am but you are welcome to come in out of the cold early at 10am. We’ll have toys for kids under 12, and gifts of warmth for all. Celebrate the holiday with your Hartford neighbors – all are welcome! No registration is required. This event is sponsored by Max Cares Foundation, Dell EMC, Vox Church, and Gengras Center. For a flyer, click here: Christmas Meal 2021 v2
Thanksgiving Day Meal for the Community
Join us for a free Thanksgiving Day meal and celebration! Meals will be served to dine in, or to go. This is a family-friendly event and all are welcome. Sponsored by Fidelux Lighting, LLC, with care kits provided by employees of The Hartford.
Five New Members Join Hands On Hartford Board
Hands On Hartford welcomes the appointment of five members to its Board of Directors: Harry Amadasun, Jr., a resident of East Hartford, works in Underwriting Operations with Travelers; Nichole Berklas, a resident of West Hartford, is Of Counsel with Bocarsly Emden Cowan Esmail & Arndt LLP; Chris Collibee, a resident of Wethersfield, is State Communications Director for U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal; Michele Frey, a resident of Tolland, is Chief Marketing Officer with Prudential Individual Life Insurance; and Rev. Nicole Grant Yonkman, a resident of Windsor, is Senior Minister for First Church in Windsor.
Hands On Hartford is committed to increasing food security, improving health and providing housing while they engage volunteers and connect communities. Its Board of Directors is a “hands on” Board, with each member deeply committed to giving their time, talent and treasure in support of the Hartford community. As a whole, the Board represents a highly diverse group of individuals bringing a range of knowledge and experience as well as community and corporate connections in advancement of the agency’s mission. Hands On Hartford is delighted to welcome Harry, Nichole, Chris, Michele, and Rev. Nicole to the team!
Hands & Hearts Together: Bring Hope Home
Save the date for Hands On Hartford’s annual event, Hands & Hearts Together!
Here’s the link to the event: View Event Here
This virtual celebration, supporting Hands On Hartford’s housing assistance, homeless outreach and homelessness prevention work, is a unique opportunity to bring together friends, partners, donors and volunteers to support our commitment to the folks who turn to us for help, and the future of the Hartford community. Featuring a program that will engage, educate and entertain, along with a silent auction and call for action, this celebration offers the opportunity to have fun and do good.
Registration with CT grown gourmet supper package created by Ani’s Table: $75 (supper packages available to be picked up Sunday, September 26, noon-3pm, at Hands On Hartford, 55 Bartholomew Avenue, Hartford)
Registration without supper package: free
To register, go to https://handson.cbo.io and click “Buy Tickets”
To sign up for the silent auction, go to : https://handson.cbo.io and click “Login/Register” or “Register Now”
To take a look at the delicious menu created by Ani’s Table, click MENU
Mark your calendars now!
We are now seeking sponsors for this event – more information on sponsorship opportunities is HERE, or contact Kate Shafer at kshafer@handsonhartford.org or 860-706-1505.
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