To the editor:

After reading the article in the paper this week regarding the Spencer Trust, I immediately thought of the words of a man I had a great deal of respect for...Mr. John Martin, past headmaster of St. Andrews School. 

I cannot quote him word for word...But, he talked about one giving their time, treasure and talent. In part, the Spencer Trust will provide treasure (money) to people in need. I do not think it should be limited to income level and I believe that each person should be considered for their unique set of circumstances. 

As far as who decides who should be considered for the trust funds, that should be decided by a cross-section of people of different backgrounds and experiences, because the circumstances that will arise as people submit applications will require some knowledge of those circumstances. Some of these people should be citizens outside of employees of Barrington Town Hall and their departments. 

I also believe that helping a recipient of the trust would fall into three parts. It may be that part of the help the town gives is money, but could also include the other parts as well. For example, let's say someone needs help with fixing a roof, maybe the trust pays for materials, and provides a person who is willing to do the job as a volunteer (time and talent). Each situation will be slightly different. 

I think it is an excellent idea to have a social media outlet whereby townspeople can either offer or request services.  I look forward to seeing how the process rolls out.

Joann Weiner

Barrington