Rooney Foundation Grants $8,000 to Monroe Food Pantry and Project Warmth: A Community Impact Story

MONROE, CT — The First Selectman Rooney Foundation recently made a generous donation of $8,000 to support Project Warmth and the Monroe Food Pantry. These programs provide essential assistance to single residents and families struggling to keep their homes warm and food on the table.

Last year, around 150 families, which is about 750 to 800 individuals, benefited from the food pantry’s offerings of fresh produce, milk, eggs, frozen meat, and non-perishable items, says Eddie Lui, the pantry’s coordinator.

On Thursday, First Selectman Terry Rooney presented a check to Lui and Kim Cassia, the director of Community and Social Services. “We’re excited to do this,” Rooney shared. “It’s always fulfilling to support our community.”

Kim Cassia added, “This donation will really help us keep our pantry shelves full and ensure that people can maintain their electricity and heat.”

The pantry greatly relies on donations and the kindness of local businesses, organizations, and community groups like Big Y, the Girl Scouts, the Rotary Club, and Monroe schools. They specifically serve Monroe residents who verify their need with identification and a utility bill. Anyone in need can reach out to Lui at 203-452-2817.

**Facing New Challenges**

This donation comes at a crucial time. Recent changes in financial assistance programs, like Eversource’s income-based matching program, have left some residents with less support. Previously, low-income customers received a consistent billing discount, but that has recently changed, leading to fewer benefits for many.

Social Services Coordinator Mary Ann Kalm explains, “Now, if someone qualifies for a discount, they might only get 10% off their bills which is a big change.” To qualify for help, customers need to be at least 60 days late on their bills and owe at least $100.

Moreover, the ALLIANCE program, which historically processed applications within 45 days, is experiencing delays this year. “This is problematic as it can leave people running out of heating oil,” Kalm noted. “Project Warmth helps bridge these gaps until assistance is available.”

**A Community-Driven Approach**

Rooney’s desire to aid the community stems from personal experiences, especially witnessing the struggles people faced during last summer’s flash floods. Frustrated by limitations in what social services could offer, he founded the First Selectman Rooney Foundation. Its first fundraising dinner in December 2024 raised about $20,000 to help local families in need.

Since then, Rooney has received numerous requests for help—everything from families unable to afford Christmas gifts to urgent home repairs. A dedicated committee within the foundation reviews these requests, ensuring that those in real need receive support.

The next fundraising event is set for December 13 at Testo’s, and Rooney emphasizes the importance of teamwork in these efforts. “It’s all about working together to support our community,” he said.

Organizations like the First Selectman Rooney Foundation and the Monroe Food Pantry play vital roles in ensuring that residents don’t have to face hardships alone. Their work highlights the strength of community support during challenging times.

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