While I’ve enjoyed living in Connecticut for several years, I did not grow up locally. With the celebration of the United States of America’s 250th anniversary kicking off earlier this Fall and Halloween just around the corner, I wondered how harvest activities that took place in the years leading up to the Declaration of Independence might be reflected in today’s Fairfield County, and how communities came together in those times.
An online search of 1760s Fairfield County revealed that, much like today, harvest time was a deeply communal season. Neighbors gathered for husking and apple bees — social events where people came together to husk corn, peel apples, share stories around bonfires, and celebrate stewardship and resilience. It was a time to remember that harvests are not only reaped — they are shared.
That same spirit of gathering continues today at The Meetinghouse through the Community Cupboard and the community planting and weeding volunteer activities led by our Environmentalist in Residence, Heather Cochrane. Each act of service — whether sharing food, tending the earth, or celebrating together — strengthens the roots of community connection. The Be Kind People Project shared 7 ways Halloween brings communities together, and I’d argue that the same can be said for many celebrations that take place in communities this time of year.
As we move through this season, may we remember that empowerment begins with gathering. The traditions in our fall festivals, celebrations, and community dinners help us to continue to build spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and an important part of the conversation.
Some Food, Health and Utility Resources in Danbury, Ridgebury and Ridgefield:
(not an exhaustive list)
The Community Cupboard at The Meetinghouse – 605 Ridgebury Road, Ridgebury, CT The Salvation Army Danbury Corps – 15 Foster Street, Danbury, CT Daily Bread Food Pantry – 125 Park Avenue, Danbury, CT (by appointment) Meals on Wheels of Ridgefield – 25 Gilbert Street, Ridgefield, CT Ridgefield Youth & Family Services – 66 Prospect Street or 109 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield Hillside Food Outreach – 4B Eagle Road, Danbury, CT Boehringer Ingelheim Americares Free Clinic of Danbury – 76 West Street, Danbury, CT Dorothy Day Hospitality House – 11 Spring Street, Danbury, CTWith gratitude for all who gather and give,
Dr. Fanta Waterman
Director of Leadership and Community Empowerment, The Meetinghouse
Youth Leadership Initiative: There’s still time to apply!
The Youth Leadership Initiative will launch in November; we are excited to launch this program with local middle-schoolers! YLI is accepting applications through December 19th.
To learn more about YLI, visit meetinghouse.life/youth-at-the-meetinghouse or contact me at fanta@meetinghouse.life.
If you know a young person ready to grow their voice and vision, encourage them to apply now: Apply here.
