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Easton commission weighs refrigeration, partnerships to expand town food pantry
Summary
Commission members discussed expanding a planned Easton Food Pantry beyond nonperishables by securing refrigeration, soliciting nominal-cost donations, and partnering with Scouts, NCL and the RUOK program to boost senior outreach.
Members of the Easton Commission for the Aging discussed options on Feb. 2 to strengthen the town's planned Food Pantry and broader senior outreach.
Commissioners and municipal staff said the Food Pantry is currently planned to host nonperishable items, but members proposed adding a refrigerator with a small freezer to expand offerings. Member Jim Waterbury said he knows groups that might donate or sell refrigeration equipment at a nominal cost.
Members offered to assist Municipal Agent Daniel Simonelli with outreach for the Feb. 12 "Lunch and Learn" event and discussed outreach channels for seniors, including collaborating with local Scouts and the Newcomers/Community Links (NCL) and establishing a pen-pal program. Chair Lisa Tasi highlighted the RUOK program, run in tandem with First Responders and the Easton Senior Center, and encouraged sign-ups to check on seniors' well-being.
Commissioners suggested a regular Municipal Agent news item in the Friday Town email from the First Selectman's Office to publicize services, donation opportunities and gift-card support for older residents. No final decision on a Food Pantry location was recorded; Simonelli said he is working with the First Selectman's office to secure a site and that more discussion will follow in coming months.
The commission adjourned at 5:28 p.m. The next meeting is Monday, March 2, 2026, 5-6 p.m. at the Easton Senior Center.
