HISTORY

Interfaith Human Services of Putnam

Many years ago “Daily Bread” was started by St. Mary’s Church & the Greater Putnam Interfaith Council.  In 2005 Interfaith Human Services was formally established out of Daily Bread and received its 501c3 status.

 
Our signature program, known as Daily Bread, is a client choice food pantry.  On a monthly basis we serve an average of 555 individuals/families in all age brackets.  During the Summertime we provide families with children Healthy Snak Paks and families can pick up food twice a month supplementing their food needs when children are home from school.

The NU2U Clothing Closet opened in 2007 which allowed us to expand the program to include free clothing, of all sizes and for all ages.  The closet has an average of 275 people pass through its doors during any month.

 
The IHSP-Diaper Bank of NECT began in 2011 providing diapers, wipes and other baby resources to families living in every town in Windham County except the Willimantic area.  We see an average of 415 children yearly providing more than 115,000 diapers and wipes to keep babies clean and dry.  The program includes Potty Training Kits and 1st Time Parent Gift Baskets for At Risk Unsupported Families.

“Pathways 2 Success” an education and empowerment program established in joint partnership with Quinebaug Valley Community College and their Short Term Workplace Development Certificate Programs began in 2018.  Its intent is to help individuals better their economic situation by increasing their earning potential and their ability to contribute towards or support their family’s economic welfare.  Each participant is assigned a Pathway Partner that works as a coach, mentor, and encourager to help the person be successful in their classes and other aspects of their life’s journey.

In 2019 we became the Town of Putnam’s Agent for the Elderly.  We are working to identify and address the needs of our senior adult population.

In 2019 we began a Putnam School System Partnership establishing a Food to Table Program for children in grades Preschool-8th by providing healthy snacks for children who are unable to provide them for themselves.  For a number of years we have been supporting the Putnam Board of Education’s Summer Food Program so adult caregivers can eat with their children.

Our most recent Partnership is with the Day Kimball Hospital Oncology/Hematology Dept, Caitlyn’s Cupboard.

Lastly, we provide supplemental, emergency fuel assistance, homelessness assistance and support for unmet needs as they are identified.