Milford Re-Launches “Have a Heart, Give Smart” Campaign

Back in 2014, members from various sectors of the Milford community met as part of the Mayor’s Have a Heart, Give Smart Task Force to develop a strategy to address the issue of panhandling in Milford. The task force is comprised of representatives from municipal agencies, businesses, and nonprofit organizations in Milford that are impacted by or provide services for this population.

After much research, the task force recommended the launch of an awareness campaign called "Have a Heart, Give Smart," an effort to address what it found are often the root causes of panhandling. 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.

"What we were trying to accomplish is an attempt to better meet the needs of those who actually panhandle while addressing the concerns of community members. We as a city need to ensure that these individuals have access to the numerous services available to them through local social support agencies," said Mayor Benjamin Blake.

The Have a Heart, Give Smart campaign re-launched with the release of a billboard in downtown Milford encouraging 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, task force members will conduct outreach and provide information topanhandlers 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 Milford Prevention Council, United Way of Milford, Beth El Shelter, Outfront Media, Minuteman Press of Milford, 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.

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Submitted by Milford, CT

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