FREEGAN Foundation puts community voices at the heart of its work

GREAT BAY--The FREEGAN Foundation continues to place community participation at the center of its work, organizing regular focus group meetings that give residents an opportunity to share their experiences, identify challenges and contribute directly to the development of programs intended to support them.

Approximately six times each year, the foundation brings together community members to discuss their needs, concerns and ideas. These sessions help ensure that FREEGAN's services are informed by the people who use them, rather than relying solely on assumptions about what assistance may be required.

The foundation believes that effective community support begins with understanding the priorities of the people receiving assistance. While organizations may focus on providing necessities such as nutritious meals and groceries, those receiving support may have other concerns that require attention. Through direct engagement, FREEGAN aims to identify these needs and adjust its programs accordingly.

During its latest focus group meeting, 15 community members from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds participated in discussions about their experiences and expectations. English, Spanish and Haitian Creole speakers were represented, with dedicated translators assisting participants to ensure everyone had an opportunity to contribute.

The session was facilitated by FREEGAN's in-house psychologist, Caroline van Oost, alongside community coaches Esther and Dorian. Together, they guided discussions in an environment that encouraged participants to speak openly, share personal experiences and offer suggestions.

Although the conversations addressed matters affecting participants' daily lives, the gathering also provided opportunities for social interaction, laughter and connection among community members.

For FREEGAN, the focus groups serve a purpose beyond collecting feedback. They reflect the foundation's commitment to involving community members in decisions that affect their lives and recognizing their experiences as an important source of information when developing support services.

The foundation believes that individuals who rely on community assistance should have a meaningful role in shaping the programs designed to help them. This approach allows FREEGAN to evaluate whether its existing services remain relevant and identify areas where additional support may be necessary.

Discussions may address a range of subjects, including food assistance, emotional well-being, education, social activities and the importance of providing welcoming spaces where individuals feel comfortable and supported.

By maintaining regular contact with community members, the foundation also seeks to strengthen relationships, build trust and encourage greater participation in its activities.

FREEGAN emphasized that listening to those it serves is essential to understanding how assistance can be delivered in a manner that respects individual needs, circumstances and dignity.

The foundation expressed its appreciation to all 15 participants for their openness and contributions during the session. It also thanked the translators for facilitating communication across language groups and acknowledged Caroline van Oost, Esther and Dorian for guiding the discussions.

FREEGAN reaffirmed its commitment to continuing these meetings as part of its broader community engagement efforts, ensuring that the experiences and perspectives of residents remain central to the planning and delivery of its programs.

The foundation maintains that meaningful community support involves more than providing material assistance. It also requires creating opportunities for people to be heard, participate in decisions and know that their opinions are valued.

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