FROM THE WINY RADIO NEWSROOM: FREE FOOD SHARE IN PUTNAM ON THURSDAY: The Danielson Veterans Coffeehouse first-Thursday-of-the-month FOOD SHARE will be held on Thursday, May 1st at 10 am at the Farmers Market Pavilion, 18 Kennedy Drive in Putnam. The event is FREE and open to EVERYONE.
We’re excited to share that, thanks to grant funding, the NECC—in partnership with the Putnam Family Resource Center—will be hosting a special Parent Café created specifically for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities. This will be a warm, welcoming space to connect, share experiences, and take a breath. Whether you’re seeking support, resources, or simply the comfort of being understood, you’ll find it here.![]()
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Event Details:![]()
🗓 When: Thursday, June 5, 2025![]()
🕠 Time: 5:30–7:30 PM![]()
📍 Location: Putnam Elementary School, 33 Wicker Street, Putnam, CT![]()
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🍽 Free Dinner (optional) will be served from 5:30–6:00 PM![]()
💬 Café Conversation will follow from 6:00–7:30 PM![]()
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Childcare is provided on-site for children ages 2–10. If you need care for a child age 11 or older, please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements.![]()
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See attached flyer for more information and please share with families.![]()
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REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED & SPACE IS LIMITED Signups end May 19, 2025, or until full ![]()
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www.surveymonkey.com/r/6-5-25CaregiverCafe![]()
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This is a chance to feel heard, supported, and part of a community that understands your journey. We hope you can join us!
NECC announces 2025 Children’s Champion Award recipients![]()
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REGION — The Northeast Early Childhood Council (NECC) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Children’s Champion Awards. These awards honor individuals, organizations, and businesses that have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to young children in one or more of NECC’s seven communities: Brooklyn, Canterbury, Killingly, Plainfield, Putnam, Sterling, and Thompson.![]()
This year’s four honorees have made significant contributions to NECC’s mission: To ensure all children, birth through age eight, are healthy, safe, and successful learners.![]()
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2025 Children’s Champion Award Recipients:![]()
• Charlene Brodeur, Plainfield Public Schools![]()
Charlene serves as a preschool instructional coach and is a dedicated advocate for the well-being of young children. Her leadership within the Plainfield preschool program and her close collaboration with the Family Resource Center have enriched early childhood programming in meaningful ways. Known for her strong connections with families, Charlene provides compassionate guidance and support throughout their preschool journey.![]()
• Patricia Buell, Brooklyn Cares Community Center![]()
Patti’s passion for helping others is exemplified through her vision and leadership in creating the Brooklyn Cares Community Center—a vital hub where families can access free food, clothing, and essential resources. Her tireless work has helped build a sense of community, belonging, and safety for Brooklyn residents.![]()
• Altrusa International of Northeastern Connecticut![]()
The members of Altrusa International of NE CT dedicate their time and energy to uplifting children and families across the region. Through volunteer-led fundraising, they award annual grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 to support programs that directly benefit children and families. Their hands-on involvement and financial support continue to create lasting impacts across Northeastern Connecticut.![]()
• Shannon Haney, Putnam Family Resource Center![]()
As a Parent Educator, Shannon Haney exemplifies dedication to supporting the mental health and well-being of children and families. Her advocacy, resourcefulness, and compassionate support make her an invaluable part of the Putnam community and a true champion for early childhood wellness.![]()
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The NECC extends heartfelt congratulations and deep gratitude to each of these outstanding individuals and organizations for their unwavering commitment to children and families in our region.![]()
To learn more about the Northeast Early Childhood Council and our work, visit www.neccouncil.org or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/nechildhoodcouncil.
