Safety Net Team


About the Safety Net Team


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​The Norwich Safety Net Team was established in March of 1997 to provide a safety net for people in the Norwich Community who are in need, and to help improve their quality of life. The Team also works to promote community partnerships. The Team consists of city human service staff, representatives of the faith community, and area health and human service agencies.

​​Over the years, legislative cuts in services to disadvantaged families and individuals have made it extremely difficult for them to get by. As a way to meet the basic needs of this population, the Safety Net Team has developed many programs to assist people in the Norwich community.
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Programs
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​Children's Fund
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The Children's Fund provides assistance to Norwich children that will improve the quality of life for that child. Funds can be used for such things as health needs, enrichment  (school field trips, camps, club or sports fees, tutoring ), development (social functions or events that mark milestones), or basic needs (school clothing, books/supplies).
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Golden Wishes Program


​As a way to help meet the needs of our low income Senior Citizens, the Golden Wishes Program was created. A committee consisting of Outreach Workers and the Senior Center staff reviews referrals made from agencies, friends, or family members and makes decisions as to which requests are granted.

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Pharmacy Fund​

​A pharmacy fund has been set up to help people in Norwich who do not have insurance or do not qualify for public medical assistance and are unable to afford their medication. Funds are normally issued on a one-time basis, and are screened by a Norwich Human Services Social Worker.

​​Utility/Fuel Fund

The Safety Net Team sponsors a small utility/fuel fund available to Norwich residents who need assistance with their utility/fuel bill. Funds are available to persons who may not be eligible for other programs, or who have exhausted other benefits.

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Job Related Incidentals
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Many people who are trying to return to the work force find themselves in need of items such as required footwear or uniforms. A small fund has been established to help people who are in need of such items but are unable to afford them.
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​**Note that all programs are limited to availability of funding.
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Acknowledgements


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Our Programs have been made possible through the generosity of the following businesses and agencies:
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The Dime Savings Bank Foundation
Chelsea Groton Foundation
Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut
​Eastern Federal Bank Institute
​The SI Group Foundation
​Liberty Bank Foundation
​Backus Foundation, Inc.
​Community Giving Committee of Christ Episcopal Church
​Norwich Rotary Sunrise Club
​United Way of Southeastern Connecticut
​Pfizer, Inc.
​The Mohegan Sun
​Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation
​Core Plus Federal Credit Union
​Charter Oak Federal Credit Union
​Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, Inc.
​Eastern Connecticut Association of Realtors
​Putnam Bank Foundation
​The Connecticut Tigers
​Private Donations
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