Supporting Families Through the Season of Giving

Just before Thanksgiving, InterCommunity’s School-Based Health Center (SBHC) team helped ensure that families in East Hartford could enjoy a warm, complete holiday meal. On November 19 and November 21, the SBHC team partnered with Connecticut Foodshare to host two Thanksgiving food drives at Mayberry Elementary School—our only school site with a permanent food pantry. Thanks to this coordinated effort, more than 20 families received full Thanksgiving dinners, bringing comfort and stability during a time when many face increased financial strain.

These events showcased the heart of our mission and the dedication of our staff. We extend heartfelt gratitude to SBHC Coordinator Guadalupe Ferreyra for identifying families in need, to our Facilities Team for transporting and distributing meals, and to SBHC Practice Manager Jessica Russell for managing logistics and leading the collaboration with Connecticut Foodshare. Their compassion and teamwork ensured that support reached the families who needed it most.

This year’s holiday season also underscored a growing concern: the recent government shutdown and resulting loss of SNAP benefits for many households. As families suddenly faced gaps in essential resources, InterCommunity recognized the urgent need to strengthen our role in combating food insecurity—not only within our programs but across the community at large.

In response, InterCommunity is expanding its food support efforts. In addition to maintaining the School-Based Health Center food pantry at Mayberry Elementary School, InterCommunity will now work more closely with local food pantries to help stock shelves, provide financial support, and ensure that food access remains steady for vulnerable residents. Several InterCommunity sites will soon host food drop-off locations, making it easier for staff, partners, and supporters to contribute.

We also invite donors to make a direct impact by giving to the IC Food Pantry Fund, which helps us purchase essential items and respond quickly to emerging needs. Together, we can make sure families struggling with food insecurity are met with compassion, dignity, and dependable support—during the holidays and all year long.

To support our efforts, visit our donation page and select “IC Food Pantry” under support designation.