by Alexis Ann
According to a U.S. Census, more than 19,000 people in SE CT are living below the poverty level. At the United Way Kick-off, Gemma E. Moran, founder, Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center, shares the good news with Alexis Ann, editor & publisher, the Resident, “Last year, The Food Center distributed more than 1.7 million pounds of food through more than 90 free food programs which in turn helped provide meals and snacks, at no cost, to those in need throughout New London County.”
This year, a dynamic team, MPTN Chairman Rodney Butler and Melodie Peters, first vice president American Federation of Teachers Connecticut, are heading up our United Way campaign and the approach is very expansive. What’s that mean?
Unlike prior years, with the dollar goal continuously increasing, the 2010 goal is to increase the number of participants. So, whether you can give a million or a dollar, Rodney and Melodie want you to join the team and give what you can. Ask Haley Hinton, Junior Miss Ledyard, how it’s done – Haley contributed 90 hours of UW volunteer work this past summer and now, she says, “I want to get the word out more and start a fundraiser in my school.” More on page 5.
The Arc of New London County opened a general store and bakery at 52 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton. Founded in 1952, by parents of persons intellectually challenged, Arc teaches life skills. Be sure to visit the store for a bite to eat. There are some goodies baking in the ovens right now on page 13.
Resident friend, David Preka, owner, Advanced Improvements, officially opened new digs in downtown Mystic, next door to Chelsea Groton and across the street from Mystic Pizza. Stop by and say hello on page 4.
Finally, a Salute to our World War II Veterans joined by three Korean War Vets on page 20. Meet them as they prepared for a trip to their Memorial in DC. Let’s put our hands together for Chris Coutu and his AmericanWarrior Team Members. They’re doing an outrageously good thing by making these visits possible!
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