On behalf of the members of The Board of Directors of the Collin Bennett Building, I humbly accept the 2020 Community Award you have so generously offered to North Family Life Center.
North Family Life Center, Inc. (NFLC) 501(c)(3) was established in December 2017 as the community outreach arm of North United Methodist Church incorporating projects such as NUMC Food Share Pantry, Gifts for God’s Children Clothing Bank and Gardners’ House. In 2018, North Family Life Center partnered with Upper Albany Hunger Action Team to create, and remain the Fiduciary of, Promise Zone Community Farmers’ Market.
Our mission is to enhance the lives of the residents in the Greater Hartford community through acts of love: providing educational programming, support services and access to basic needs such as clothing and food. The programs are administered with contributions and grants, which allow us to serve hundreds of families weekly with groceries and provide access to affordable fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting our local farmers. A Diaper Bank was recently added and children up to age 12 can also get items of clothing. Youth are engaged in training and employment programs through our endeavors with community advocates and the state, to minimize youth violence.
Earlier this year at the start of the pandemic and considering the higher risk in our community due to the continued health disparities, exasperated because of pre-existing underlying conditions, we started a MOVE (Mobilizing Our Vulnerable Easily) initiative. In partnership with Connecticut Area Heath Education Center Network at UCONN Health we have encouraged dozens of residents to be more active wherever they are and measure their steps with a free pedometer.
Strategically, the furtherance of our existing programs to minimize hunger, prevent youth violence, address other issues around homelessness and suitable housing for our aging population are paramount.
With much appreciation, we sincerely thank Gardner’s’ House for making a difference in the lives of so many in our community and taking the time to recognize North Family Life Center.
In God we trust.
Donna Trowers-Morrison
Board Member