Help at H.O.M.E., March 8, 2016

HELP @ HOME

March 8, 2016

Holden Senior Center

In Attendance:  K. Halley, B. Bullock, Joseph Sullivan, Faye Ellis, Susie Marsh, Jim Robinson. Absent: Marty Holman

Chairman Halley called the meeting to order at 4:01PM

WELCOME ALDRICH FUND - Faye Ellis reported

35 Applicants in 2015

7 Carry-overs into 2016

$3,156 Distributed to applicants

$3,254 distributed to 4 applicants

$136.32 expended on postage

Balance for 2016 $13,483.42

Currently on deposit $17,795.12

TREASURER’S REPORT – JIM ROBINSON

Jim Robinson reported on fundraising as of November 2015

He explained that the fundraising and Town’s fiscal years are not the same.

On average the fund has between $16,000 - $17,000 on hand.

The fund received $173.00 in interest income for the period.

Jim noted that it appeared that the lack of need was due to a milder winter.

A copy of the financial report will be attached to these minutes.

Motion to accept the Treasurer’s report Sullivan, seconded Halley approved 5-0.

FACT BOOKS – MARSH

Susie Marsh reported that she was focusing on identified changes and will make the corrections to the text and have it available for review in the Fall.

Printing frequency was discussed and it was noted 1000 were printed in 2012.

A new draft should be available for review this fall 2016

There was no Clergy update.

WACHUSETT FOOD PANTRY - KAREN HALLEY

There are about 120 families per month, however there is an overall  decrease in clients.

Support from the community remains strong

Karen has announced her decision to step down from her role as President this fall.  During her tenure over 60,000 people have been helped.

FUTURE TOPICS

Karen announced her intention to step away from her Chairmanship of Help @ Home this Fall.  She cited family issues as the driving factor.

Everyone in attendance expressed their regret with her decision but understood that family must come first.

Various ideas were discussed to revitalize Help at Home given the changes in leadership.  It was agreed that all members would look for new potential members to carry on the goals and programs of H&H.

Meeting Adjourned 4:53PM without vote.

                                                ____________________________

                                                Brian J. Bullock

                                                Acting Secretary