With Summer Mutual Aid Program, Racial Justice Coalition Works to Aid People in Neighborhoods

The New Britain Racial Justice Coalition is working to reach out to and empower people in neighborhoods with its Summer Mutual Aid Program. The program, continuing again this Summer, is being held at Willow Street Park and Mount Pleasant.

The Coalition held kick off events at the two locations, July 1st at Mount Pleasant and July 8th at Willow Street Park. The program was to begin at Willow Street Park on June 24th, but that was cancelled due to inclement weather.

Volunteers held the event on a clear but humid day at Willow Street Park on July 8th, providing water, juice and bread, along with toys and books, to families gathered to enjoy the park and cool down in the park’s splash pad.

The Willow Street Park is located in the North-Oak neighborhood, one of the city’s most densely populated and one of the most at need.

The Coalition also assessed what the needs are for people in the neighborhood. The Coalition has said that the Mutual Aid events, are to provide, “Food and essential supplies for New Britain families.”

The Coalition has said that what mutual aid means is that it,

1) Addresses both the basic survival needs while building underscoring of the systemic nature of economic inequity.
2) Operates as a tool for mobilization towards building solidarity around movements for systemic, social & political transformation.
3) Rooted in direct participation and collective action.

These three aspects differentiate mutual aid from traditional notions of charity. We see charity as a form of giving that does not challenge, and often re-enforces economic inequality in our society.

The events are to continue on Saturdays from 12:00pm to 2:00pm during the summer on different dates at the two locations.

The events on August 19, 2023 at Willow Street Park and August 26th at Mount Pleasant are to be Back-To-School Bash events.

The Coalition has, in the past, requested donations in support of the program, saying that items needed included,

Hygiene Products

• Shampoo/Conditioner

• Deodorant (Circle Mens/Womens)

• Soap/Body Wash • Toothbrush/Toothpaste

• Menstrual Products

• Hand soap

• Shaving products

• Toilet Paper

Cleaning Products

• Detergent

• Multipurpose Cleaner

• Dish Soap

• Paper Towels/Napkins

• Garbage Bags

Baby Products

• Formula

• Diapers

• Baby wipes

The Coalition has also asked for volunteers to assist with the program, and set up sign up website for volunteers.

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