This winter, our department is proud to support two impactful initiatives dedicated to serving Hartford residents: Hands On Hartford and Community Service Officer Jim Barrett’s Homeless Outreach Program. As the colder months arrive and financial instability continues to rise, community support is more important than ever.
About Community Service Officers & Officer Jim Barrett
Community Service Officers work directly within Hartford neighborhoods, building relationships, attending community events, and addressing quality-of-life concerns. Officer Jim Barrett, the city’s homeless outreach officer, goes above and beyond to support unhoused individuals. Operating out of a renovated bomb squad truck turned mobile care unit, he provides supplies, resources, and connections to social services. His compassionate work has been recognized locally and nationally.
About Hands On Hartford
Hands On Hartford strengthens the community through housing support, food access, homelessness prevention, and outreach services. Their MANNA Community Pantry, Backpack Nutrition Program, Supportive Housing, and Shared Use Kitchen all play a crucial role in meeting basic needs and fostering long-term stability. Their participation-based restaurant, Gather55, welcomes everyone—regardless of ability to pay—creating a space where community and compassion meet over a shared meal.
They also operate a Day Program that provides referrals, shelter support, health screenings, and a safe environment for those experiencing homelessness. With more than 1,400 volunteers each year and support from civic, faith-based, and organizational partners, Hands On Hartford continues to create a healthier, more inclusive Hartford for all.
How You Can Help
This year, many community members are facing reduced assistance, unexpected hardships, and limited access to food or warm clothing. Even small contributions can make a meaningful difference—especially items like $5 fast-food gift cards, which provide unhoused individuals the opportunity to purchase a warm meal.
Most-needed items include:
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Financial contributions –
Please contact the following emails:jindavis@uchc.edu, lcook@uchc.edu, samociuk@uchc.edu, and parris@uchc.edu
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Nonperishable food
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Full-size toiletries & household essentials
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Food for children’s backpack nutrition program
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Snack kits for outreach
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Hygiene products
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Cold-weather gear
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$5 fast-food gift cards to Mcdonalds, Burger King and Dunkin Donuts
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Bus passes
Your generosity directly supports individuals and families navigating challenging times. Thank you for helping us make a positive impact this winter.
