Exeter social‑services director reports new food programs, senior services and grant progress

Jessica, Exeter’s Director of Social Services, told the council she has seen growing demand for food assistance now that school is out and outlined several local responses and initiatives.

She described a new 'farmers give back' program coordinated with five local farms and volunteers: 34 households attended the no‑cost produce market, the town delivered to 10 homebound residents and the effort reached roughly 75 residents; about a dozen volunteers helped. Jessica also said she distributed 32 farmers‑market produce cards to income‑qualifying seniors through the Rhode Island program.

Jessica reviewed the 'Exeter Extras' handyman program that has assisted 14 residents since April 2022 with tasks such as insulating doors, removing broken appliances and repairing bulkhead stairs; she said those home visits create ongoing connections and help staff spot other needs. She outlined plans for an 'Exeter Village' volunteer network to match older residents with vetted volunteers for rides, snow removal and small repairs (goal: 20 volunteers, 10 members to qualify for the statewide Village Common program).

On capital funding, Jessica told the council that initial support of $500,000 for a new community building has been supplemented by an additional $300,000 commitment, bringing the prospective total to about $800,000; she said community feedback on proposed services has been positive and staff have begun grant reporting and outreach.

Jessica asked councilors to help publicize the village and volunteer opportunities; she offered informational material and said residents may contact her office or the Department of Social Services Facebook page for details.

Next steps: staff will continue outreach, accept volunteers and pursue final grant reporting and approvals for the building project.