Community Dining Room

Mission

The mission of the Community Dining Room (CDR) is to provide meals to the community and support basic human needs.

Needs Statement

food--all types financial support packaging materials for food delivery: large and small baggies, etc. volunteers for kitchen work and fund raising home delivery drivers kitchen equipment

Impact Statement

As we celebrate our 40th year supporting our neighbors in need, we expect the need for our services to continue to grow. We served over 49,000 meals to more than 2,500 individuals in 2024. In addition to our nutrition-based programs, we supported our clientele with access to items of basic needs with our once-a-month Project Assist, we continued to host the Branford Diaper Bank, and we provided back packs to families at the start of the school year. We truly embody our tagline of "more than just a meal".

CEO statement

As we embark on our 40th year, the Community Dining Room celebrates another year of service and impact in our shoreline community. Our heartfelt thanks go out to our incredible volunteers, donors, and supporters who make it all possible. This past year, we proudly served over 49,000 meals, reflecting the growing demand for our services. Our Homebound Meal Program continues to expand, ensuring that seniors and those in need receive nutritious meals delivered with care. Additionally, our daily lunch program remains a cornerstone of connection and support. We are also thrilled to see our family night meal program thrive, with Tuesday and Wednesday nights offering working families an opportunity to enjoy nourishing meals and a fun activity together. Health screenings and educational programs have continued to be vital, providing resources and tools to enhance the well-being of our clients and community members. Looking ahead, we are committed to fostering a well-nourished community through innovative programs, engaging events, and meaningful partnerships. Together, we will continue to support our neighbors and create a positive impact for years to come. -Judith Barron Executive Director, Community Dining Room

Board Chair Statement

As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Community Dining Room, I am both honored and humbled by the incredible progress we have made in service to the greater Branford and the shoreline community. The past year has been a remarkable testament to the power of collaboration and dedication, and I am deeply grateful to our staff, volunteers, and supporters who make our mission possible. Our Board of Directors continues to play an integral role in driving innovation and expanding our reach. Together, we have championed new programs, strengthened community partnerships, and embraced our commitment to ensuring no one in our community goes hungry. This past year, we proudly served over 56,000 meals through our in-house dining, takeout, and home delivery programs. Our outreach programs, like the new East Haven Weekend Meals for Seniors, have been instrumental in addressing the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. We have served over 3,000 families during our two Community Dinner programs over the summer. This helped reduce the stigma of utilizing our services, as it let families get meals in a festive environment. Looking ahead, we are excited to support the energetic vision of our Executive Director and her team as they continue to find innovative ways to nourish and empower our community. Together, we remain steadfast in our mission to be more than just a meal. We will continue providing connection, care, and resources that uplift the lives of our neighbors. On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you for being an essential part of our journey. With your continued support, we look forward to another year of meaningful impact. Dan Armin Board Chair

Areas Served Narrative

The Community Dining Room provides meals to all ages with services based in Branford, East Haven, North Branford, and Guilford. Our reach goes far greater as most of our programs do not require proof of residency.

CEO statement (optional)

--