DCF STAFF SHOW HUMAN SIDE IN VISIT TO WATERBURY CLASS

BY MICHAEL PUFFER

WATERBURY — Michelle Baribault, a social work super­visor, has been the stern per­son at the door, visiting a home to ensure children are safe.

The authority carried by Baribault and other Depart­ment of Children and Families staff can be intimidating. On Tuesday, however, Baribault was just a warm and smiling face, reading funny stories about the underpants worn by zoo animals to a group of laughing pre-kindergarten students at Walsh Elementary School. About two dozen DCF staff visited Walsh for an hour of reading Tuesday. It’s part of a five-year partnership aimed at connecting families in the im­poverished inner-city neigh­borhood with charitable and government services.  “It’s not only an opportunity for the kids to see DCF in a dif­ferent light, it’s also a chance for our staff to see children in a different light,” said Siobhan Trotman, program manager with DCF. “It really has been a morale booster where the kids aren’t afraid of us.” Back in the classroom, teacher Patricia Spinella asked students if anybody knew about DCF.

Department Department of Children and Families Social Work Supervisor Michelle Baribault reads to Walsh Elementary School pre-kindergarten students Tuesday morning.

One boy said he said he was told about the agency by his grandfather, who is in prison. Spinella jumped in to say that the agency helps mommies, daddies and grandparents to be the best possible families. Baribault read two books, which she left behind so chil­dren could take them home.

Trotman and DCF are also a major force in the organization of the Community Resource Fair coming up on April 28.

For five years, the day has combined fun activities with a chance to learn about medical, dental, health, counseling, food, clothing and other re­sources available to low-in­come families. Five years ago, about 21 service providers were involved. This year, there are more than 60.

Students, faculty and sup­porters line up at Walsh Ele­mentary School (55 Dikeman St.) at 10 a.m. for a parade to the nearby Waterbury Police Activity League recreation center at 64 Division St. The fair runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be games and mu­sic, along with a chance at prizes for parents who visit booths of providers and sign up for services. There will be a fashion show using clothing donated to Acts 4 Ministries Inc.

There are free hot dogs and drinks for Walsh students and their families. Other fun events and the information booths are open to the general public.

Walsh Principal Erik Brown said the march on the commu­nity day helps draw neighbor­hood people to the event, and it serves the important function of introducing staff and sup­porters to the area.

“So folks know we are com­fortable walking through your neighborhood,” Brown said.