To the editor,

I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank the leaders and members of the Bristol Rotary for their recent, generous donation to the Bristol Health Equity Zone (HEZ). With this contribution, Bristol HEZ has been able to provide personal and impactful support to our town’s students and their families.

Here are just some examples of how the Rotary’s support is making a difference:

We supplied students with emergency basic needs items, like clothing, shoes, and hygiene products.
A student who has overcome adversity and shown tremendous resilience received a much-needed new pair of shoes to wear to graduation.
On an as-needed basis, students can come to my office for breakfast, lunch, or snack items during the school day. The excitement I have seen over a free apple sauce is truly unbelievable!
We dispense hygiene product bags to students as needed.
On Fridays, we prepare and give out “snack bags” to help address food insecurity on the weekends. The bags consist of breakfast items, lunch/dinner items, and snacks.

The Bristol Rotary is helping to make our community a better place, one child at a time. I want to acknowledge this incredible organization for its endless support and for valuing my work and the work of the Bristol HEZ. The Rotary and all the members I have met hold a special place in my heart for their important contributions to our students’ well-being and school success. Again, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you do.

Jessica Williams

Bristol Health Equity Zone