Dear friends,
Last month, I met Sampson, a new Willimantic resident and UConn PhD student from Nigeria. Sampson’s research focuses on improving cancer survival rates among older adults.
Sampson learned that WAIM’s Bikes for Windham Program distributed free bicycles, helmets, and locks and came to our offices in search of a reliable mode of transportation to campus.
WAIM’s mission inspired Sampson.
In short order, he joined our volunteer team. He now helps on the docks each week and helps us pick up large donations on the truck once a month. He even swapped bicycles so he could participate in a race to raise funds for cancer research.
I want to thank WAIM for making this possible. What started as access to a bicycle has turned into a passion and a purpose. I would not be on this journey without your support.
Your generosity makes countless stories like this possible. That’s why I am asking you to step up once again and donate to WAIM’s general fund.
For over 40 years, WAIM has helped its neighbors meet two basic human needs: to have the material goods necessary to live with dignity, and to contribute to the common good through civic engagement.
In this dismal national climate, both parts of our work are more important than ever.
Our programs are effective. Here’s a snapshot of WAIM’s impact in the first half of 2026:
- 8,892 free shopping trips at WAIM’s Main Street Boutique
- 2,000 volunteer hours among individuals; another 1,100 group volunteer hours
- 204 people helped through small emergency financial assistance grants
- 104 bikes distributed with free helmets and locks
WAIM inspires hope in this community. Whether you need help making ends meet or you need proof that you can make a difference with your own two hands, we are here.
We’ve been here.
A few months ago, I stumbled upon this wooden sign commemorating WAIM’s origin story. The women of this community knew that by banding together they could transform people’s lives for the better. In the process, they were transformed, as well.
Sampson’s story resonated with me because it perfectly captures who we are as a community. It’s who we’ve always been. With your support, that’s who we will continue to be.
Please donate to WAIM’s general fund today. Thank you!
In solidarity,
Dwayne David Paul
Executive Director
Windham Area Interfaith Ministry
P.S. Each year, WAIM aids approximately 8,000 neighbors in need. Your generosity helps us change lives. Please contribute to our general fund today. Thank you!
Mission Statement: The Windham Area Interfaith Ministry uplifts and unites our community by providing caring service and resources to meet our neighbors’ needs with dignity and respect.
Support & Learn More: WAIM's operation is fueled by the generosity of everyday people like you. Click below to make a tax-deductible donation. Email us at officevolunteer@waimct.org or call 860-456-7270 x105 to learn more about our organization.