Farmington Seniors To Benefit From Generous Local Donation

FARMINGTON, CT — Thanks to a large donation from a generous Farmington family, local senior citizens will soon have a new minivan to take them to much-needed doctor and shopping appointments.

The Farmington Town Council, at its last meeting on Oct. 10, unanimously approved accepting a $20,000 donation from the Shepard family in town to go toward a new minivan purchase.

It would benefit thetown's Dial-a-Ride program, where seniors without adequate transportation simply make an appointment and someone will pick them up and take them to any important appointments that must be attended to.

In addition, the council voted to accept a recurring donation from the Shepard Family Foundation, which would fund any necessary Dial-a-Ride vehicle upgrades.

"Based on our donation policy, any donation that exceeds $10,000 must be approved," said Farmington Town Manager Kathleen A. Blonski regarding why the council need to vote on the matter.

Blonski said she was grateful to the family, with her and the council offering thanks to family representative Marcie Shepard, who was at the last council meeting.

"It is really a tremendous help and asset to the community, so we appreciate you doing this," said Farmington Town Council Chairman C.J. Thomas to Shepard.

For the minutes of the Oct. 10 Farmington Town Council meeting, click on this link.