Have a Heart Give Smart in Milford

Mayor Ben Blake announced the launch of an awareness campaign called "Have a Heart, Give Smart."   This effort addresses what a local volunteer task force found are often the root causes of panhandling, which has grown substantially in Milford in recent years. The focus of the campaign is to educate and encourage members of the public to find alternative ways of giving by making donations to local human service agencies that provide help for those in need, rather than giving money directly to panhandlers. 

The campaign encourages residents and visitors to say "No" to panhandling and "Yes" to giving. Additionally, the task force will work to provide educational materials throughout the community regarding panhandling and the importance of giving to local agencies that can provide lasting assistance to individuals in need. Finally, as part of the campaign, staff members from the Beth El Shelter in Milford will conduct outreach and provide information to panhandlers in Milford regarding local services available to assist them.

The task force is pleased to have the support of several local agencies and businesses, including the United Way of Milford, Beth El Shelter, Barrett Outdoor Communications, Inc., Minuteman Press, and several city agencies including the Mayor’s Office, Health Department, City Attorney’s Office, and Department of Human Services. Each of these agencies has donated their time, staff, and/or funding to ensure the success of this effort.

Contact:  Kathlene Gerrity, United Way of Milford 203-874-6791 (kgerrity@unitedwayofmilford.org)