BARRON COUNTY - Community Connections to Prosperity is a local coalition working to help individuals, organizations, and agencies understand and help alleviate the challenges of poverty. Our mission is to empower every one of our neighbors in Barron County with skills, resources, and personal connections so that we may all enjoy lives free of poverty.
On September 28th, the coalition hosted the first multi-agency resource event (MARE) in Barron County to address the needs of our neighbors. Unlike a health fair where people come and learn about services, this event served and met people’s needs onsite.
A multi-agency resource event efficiently delivers services to individuals and families by bringing together multiple service providers in a single location and providing on-site assistance in a "one-stop-shop" style, said Sarah Turner, coalition co-chair. “It helps reduce barriers to services, increases reach and impact, and overall, serves people better.”
Over twenty-five agencies came together to help with housing, food, clothing, mental health, heat and utilities, transportation, medical and dental care, victim and legal services, disability resources, employment, childcare, and so much more. The event offered a hot meal and childcare so parents could focus on talking with agencies and getting the help they needed.
“We couldn’t have done it without our fantastic community partners," said Sheriff Chris Fitzgerald. “It’s amazing what we can do when we all come together.” We want to thank all the agencies who participated, the Cedar Mall for providing the space, and Mayo Clinic Health System for sponsoring our interpreters for the event.”
CCP will be hosting three more multi-agency resource events in 2024 and is asking for community support to enhance the event and meet attendee's needs. Donations of nonperishable food items, laundry supplies, and full-size personal care items are requested. The coalition is also looking for community groups who can provide & serve a meal for attendees or sponsor a meal for agencies providing services at each event.
“We have big dreams of growing this event to include haircuts, laundry, showers, anything to truly make it a one-stop shop for those in need," continued Turner. “We have seen our communities come together to do big things, and we know with their support, we can do something incredible for our neighbors in need here in Barron County.
If you, your agency, or business is interested in providing services, meals, donating supplies or money, or sponsoring future events, please contact event organizers at alisa.lammers@co.barron.wi.us or call 715-537-5691.
Last Update: Oct 12, 2023 12:30 pm CDT
