Representative Haddad Recognizes Anne Rash of Mansfield as a Community Hero

May 28, 2020

Mansfield, Conn. – In early April, State Representative Gregory Haddad (D-Mansfield) issued a call for nominations of individuals in Mansfield who are going above and beyond, working and volunteering to help the community through the challenges of social distancing under Covid-19.

This week's honoree is Anne Rash of Mansfield, a member of Altrusa International of Northwestern Connecticut (AINC). Anne applied for grants to fund the purchasing of books for low income children in the Windham area, ultimately raising over $8,000. This money will go to the organization Read to Grow, which delivers books and educational materials to local groups that serve Connecticut children. 

According to President of AINC Susan Ulino, who nominated Anne, when the books arrive, they will be distributed at seven lunch distribution sites in Windham. 

“Due to the closing of schools and libraries, Anne saw a need to get books into hands of kids,” Susan wrote. “Please consider Anne as she truly is a community hero.” 

"Thank you, Anne, and all of the members of Altrusa International of Northwestern Connecticut who are working to close the gaps during a time of great need," Rep. Haddad said. “My colleague Senator Mae Flexer has also been supporting Anne’s efforts. This kind of partnership between residents and elected leaders is the exact kind of work that we in state government need to invest in. Thank you, Mae.”

“It is more important than ever that our community comes together to support families in the midst of this crisis," State Senator Mae Flexer (D-Killingly) said. "Many of the resources that support young children are not accessible right now so the work of Read to Grow is more vital than ever. I’m so grateful that Anne and Altrusa saw this need and worked so hard to make these critical investments. Thank you to Representative Haddad for recognizing these great contributions to our community.”

Rep. Haddad is still accepting nominations for community heroes. Those who have a nominee in mind can send in a photo, name, and a few sentences about why they are nominating a community hero to Gregory.Haddad@cga.ct.gov.

Previous nominees include, Louis GoffinetDr. Neil Moynahanthe Food Service Staff at the Mansfield Schools, two groups of local facemask seamstresses, and Sarah Kaufold and the singers of Songs of Comfort.

 

###