Family Promise of Central Connecticut

1

Now we’re working in prevention mode.”

One of those houses of worship was the First Congregational Church of Bristol. Church members Rob and Jan Sanderford still volunteer with Family Promise to this day.

“We used to average around three families when we did the rotational model; now we’re talking about 30 families,” Rob Sanderford said. “The need is so great right now.”

The Sanderfords used to provide hands-on ministry with Family Promise, but now they’re helping to get supplies like toilet paper, blankets and food to families in need.

“During covid landlords used to be more generous with some of their tenants because of federal funds, but since coming out of the pandemic, trying to find landlords that will work with people is more difficult,” Liedke said.

Family Promise of Central Connecticut Executive Director Jessica Simms is a social worker who provides case management to dozens of families at a time from the organization's day center at 40 Cornelius Way, New Britain. She connects them with social services, job referrals, transportation, rental assistance and anything they need to establish and maintain self-sufficiency.

“It’s a financially troubling time for everyone, especially small non-profits like us,” branch founder Kara Russell said. “We’re always looking for financial support.”

5 Churches owners generously split the profits from ticket sales from Sunday’s fundraiser with Family Promise.

While there aren’t many opportunities to volunteer with Family Promise these days, donations are needed greatly. Interested donors may visit familypromisecct. org to contribute to a calendar fundraiser throughout the month of April, with prizes given out each day.

The organization is also planning a basketball tournament June 17-18 and is in need of corporate sponsors to make it happen. Email cherylliedke@gmail.com to help.