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TEEG gets
grant for
milk program
THOMPSON — The Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group (TEEG) was awarded a $2,500 grant from the Putnam Area Foundation to support its Milk Program.
The Putnam Area Foundation, Inc. is a charitable organization with a commitment to the greater Putnam geographical area. The Foundation supports cultural, educational, health, housing, social services, and other charitable organizations that seek to improve the quality of life in the community.
TEEG began to offer fresh milk thorough its markets during the pandemic after local dairy farmer, Jon Hermanot approached the Agency, hoping to supply milk to local families. The distribution has now become a regular offering to those using their three “Community Markets”.
TEEG offers stand-alone markets in Thompson and Pomfret, and a mobile market in Woodstock. In addition, they partner with local schools and community organizations to ensure that children have enough to eat when they are home from school each weekend. The markets are based on a S.W.A.P (Serving Wellness At Pantries) system that integrates healthy offerings and dietary information to those who use TEEG’s services. TEEG believes that the option for healthy eating should be accessible for everyone, and they prioritize that in their markets.
Foundation President Tom Borner said, “Ensuring that our neighbors have healthy food that meets their dietary needs is a basic human right. The Foundation is pleased to be able to assist TEEG in providing people in our local community with fresh milk.”
Increased housing, food, and energy costs continue to impact local households at a time when government assistance is decreasing. The need for fresh milk is especially important for children as it provides calcium, Vitamin D, Vitamin A, and protein that are necessary for proper growth and bone development. TEEG distributes approximately 54 half gallons of milk each week at an average cost of $2.59 per half gallon. This grant will help TEEG continue the program in 2024, ensuring that local youth are supported and served through the efforts of our Youth Service Bureau and the Foundation. This support will help address increased needs and continue to offer healthy choices to those who need it.
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Thomas Borner, president of the Putnam Area Foundation, gives TEEG's Anne Miller a grant. Courtesy photo.
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