Community Cruise Center requests $5,000 for Tamworth families' food assistance programs

The Tamworth NH Selectmen meeting on January 14, 2025, focused on funding requests from local organizations, highlighting the community's ongoing support needs and the challenges faced by service providers.

Maureen Diamond, co-chair of the Community Cruise Center for Timberland, presented a funding request of $5,000, emphasizing that the organization operates entirely on volunteer efforts. She reported a significant increase in service demand, with 77 households served in 2024, marking a 20% rise from the previous year. Diamond noted that many clients only seek assistance when necessary, reflecting the community's fluctuating needs. She also highlighted a concerning drop in in-kind donations, which has impacted their ability to provide holiday support.

Erin Joste, CEO of the Lakes Region VNA, followed with a request for $15,000 to support home-based care services. Joste explained that the organization has provided approximately 600 visits to Tamworth residents, emphasizing their commitment to charitable care regardless of patients' ability to pay. She acknowledged the need for better data to justify funding requests, particularly in light of the town's financial constraints.

The discussions underscored the importance of community support for local organizations that provide essential services. The Selectmen expressed their commitment to evaluating funding requests carefully, balancing the needs of various nonprofits with the fiscal responsibilities to taxpayers. The meeting concluded with a call for increased collaboration among service providers to avoid duplication of efforts and enhance community wellness initiatives.