Local Community Highlights

We Rise by Lifting Others

We thought everyone could use some positive news during this extremely challenging time. The focus for this week’s update is on initiatives that have sprung up around the community that further showcase just how kind and strong we are, together as a community. As you think of ways you might also be able to give support to others around you, remember, even small actions, can make a big difference.

Making PPE in the COMO Makerspace: In response to a critical shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) for first responders and healthcare workers in CT, the COMO is launching a community initiative to produce face shields using the COMO Makerspace 3D Printer and laser cutter. The community can assist in this effort by donating materials, cash or printing protective visors with at-home 3D printers. For more information visit here.

Sewing Efforts: Thanks to the efforts of a small group of residents, anyone who can sew masks or gowns can drop them off at Town Hall M-F (8-5) and have them distributed to local establishments that have requested help. Learn more here. This group is also in close coordination with the CT Mask Makers, who did a cotton drive this week. Residents brought more than 10 bags full of fabric to Town Hall to donate to this effort. The ‘Maskateers’ are also currently working on masks for our Stonington PD!

Stonington Feeds Stonington: What started as an idea from a local resident to raise a little money to purchase gift certificates ​that could go to support both our local restaurants, as well as give a bit of cheer to residents in need, has raised $20,000 in three weeks. You'll notice if you click the link below that the numbers seem lower-- this is because local restaurants (the same ones this was set up to help) have donated thousands of dollars directly back to this initiative. Read more on GoFundMe or join the group on FaceBook

S.H.A.R.E (Stonington Helps Area Residents in Emergency): Another fantastic group of volunteers have been meeting- almost daily- to organize an effort that will serve Stonington, North Stonington, and Mystic communities. They will pair healthy adults with those at the highest risk, mainly those over 60 or having other health risk factors. Volunteers will arrange contact-less deliveries of groceries and other essentials, as well as do a regular phone or email check-in. If you, or someone you know, is in a high-risk category please encourage them to sign up for this service. If you are able to volunteer your time, please do- there are many options! To volunteer or seek assistance click here.

Stonington Public Schools and Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center- Food Services: Since hearing there was a potential for schools to close, the Town of Stonington, Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center and Stonington Public School staff collaborated to ensure food insecurity would not need to be another stress factor for Stonington residents. Through the school, families are able to pick-up or have meals delivered. With the newly launched weekend meal service, 1320 meals were distributed today! Learn more here. The PNC also quickly adapted to a take-out format, and has been serving those in need through their Food Pantry, as well as their Weekender Backpack, Keeping Babies Warm and Well, Pet Shoppe, and TVCCA Meals on Wheels program. Learn more here.

Community Bell Ringing: Residents are coming out of their homes at 8pm each night and ringing a bell to show unity and bring comfort while people stay home during the coronavirus pandemic. While the Governor’s Stay Home. Stay Safe. order is in effect, please encourage friends, family and neighbors to participate so all residents across town can hear and be reminded, they are not alone. You can also share photos on social media and tag @townofstonington.

Support Local: Another group of residents came together to not only help raise money, but recirculate a timeless message- Support Local. As an economy that is largely intertwined with tourism, so many of our local businesses and institutions depend on visitors. Luckily, we have a diverse mixture of talented and compassionate residents who designed and produced special, limited edition 'Support Local' merchandise, with all profits being donated to the Town of Stonington for a local marketing effort. Over the course of two weeks, they raised over $2,000.

Stonington Public Schools- What started as a kind gesture from the Stonington Public Schools' Facilities Director and his custodial staff to help do special disinfecting services Town Hall, the Police Station and Human Services, as grown into a generous community effort. A big thanks to the custodial staff who are now cleaning 18 buildings that serve important functions during this difficult time.

Stonington Non-Profit Collaborative: In the face of the global health crisis, this consortium of local nonprofits is pooling its resources to continue serving our community. The collaboration includes more than 40 nonprofit entities whose services are available to area residents. For a list of participating libraries, museums, and cultural centers providing additional online content and resources to help out-of-school students and quarantined adults stay engaged, click here.  

During this time, we want to do everything we can to stay connected. Please check the First Selectman's blog for regular updates on other related topics. Both Town Hall and Human Services are working to share information on social media as well.  For the most up-to-date information from the State of Connecticut on COVID-19, including a FAQ and other guidance and resources, residents are encouraged to visit ct.gov/coronavirus.

If you have questions, ideas or concerns please call Town Hall. 

In closing, we thought you may enjoy this video from our friends in Waterford, and another from our amazing first responders at Mystic River Ambulance.

We will get through this together,

Danielle Chesebrough

Stonington First Selectman

AttachmentSize
PDF icon PDF version of update2.06 MB