The purpose of Chittenden Cares is to support and encourage a thriving community in Chittenden, VT, by supporting efforts that build community, and by helping residents in critical need with financial and/or material support. We were established in October 2023 to fill a gap left by the death of a previous "town organizer and benefactor" who managed a personal community giving group. However, our predecessor organization was never incorporated as a true non-profit; thus, had no board of directors or community control. The people involved in Chittenden Cares had come together as a loose group to manage the Covid-era "Everyone Eats" program,distributing meals to about 200 residents weekly. This work helped to guide our future mission. We saw firsthand how global, national, and local events could impact every aspect of people's lives, particularly food security. We also continue to see how families are impacted by personal setbacks, illnesses, and deaths and a helping hand can change the trajectory of the future. We strive to be responsive to community needs; our deep connections within the community and connections to other organizations helps to ensure that we are mindful of needs as they arise.