Fall/Winter 2011

Over a period of several days, those of us in Connecticut had our power restored after enduring Storm Alfred, the Nor’easter that wreaked havoc throughout most of the state. In a few weeks, this freak October storm will only be a memory. We will have lights at night, a warm house and hot water, and cold milk in the fridge. Other than the tales we will share for some time, our lives will pretty much be as they were prior to the storm.

This is not so for the families of Mary’s Place, who have experienced a tragedy; a death of a husband, father, sister or brother. Life for them will never be as it was prior to the death. As they integrate their loss into their lives they search for what is now a “new normal.” Time is now defined as life before the death or after the death. And so, as many in Connecticut went to shelters during the storm, we hope that those who find their way to our center find safety, hope and healing here during their storm.

I thank all of you who support us and thereby allow us to provide this place of comfort. Anything and everything you do makes a difference. Our Ray of Hope Celebration in September was a great success. Thank you to everyone who helped make it a wonderful evening and to all who took part.

I would also like to thank two long-standing and devoted board members who will be rotating off our Board of Directors at the end of the year. We are most grateful to David Newell and Robin Roncari for their years of service. David has served as secretary for many years and Robin as co chair of our Gala. We also say goodbye and thank Ken Prescott for his contributions to the board these past two years. They, like so many of you, have made a difference in the lives of the many children and families who come here.

As we approach the holiday season all of us at Mary’s Place ….the staff, board of directors, volunteers, children and families...wish that each of you may find peace in your heart, joy in your families and hope in your future.

Warmly,
Lisa Peluso
Executive Director