New Community Artists’ Pantry to Support Local Creativity

New Donation Program Provides Free Art Supplies to Local Creatives

Southbury, CT – August 22, 2025 – The Southbury Arts & Culture Alliance (SACA) is thrilled to

announce the launch of its newest community initiative: the SACA Community Artists’ Pantry.

This innovative program invites the public to donate new or gently used art and craft supplies, which will then be redistributed at free community "shopping" events designed to provide creative resources for all.

Donations can be dropped off at any of the following Southbury partner locations:

• The Cottage at Main Cooperative

• Vicinanza Art Gallery and Studios

• Southbury Parks and Recreation Office

• More locations to come!

SACA’s first Free Pantry Shopping Day is scheduled for Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The event will be open to the public; location details will be announced in early fall.

“Our goal is simple: to make creativity accessible to everyone,” said Sherrie Romano, SACA Vice President and Pantry Co-Chair. “Art supplies can be costly, and we know that creative expression is vital for emotional well-being. The Artists’ Pantry helps remove barriers so more people can create.”

The idea blossomed from community feedback and was embraced by SACA members and Southbury residents eager to give their unused supplies a second life.

“This project reflects the heart of our mission—connecting people through creativity,” said Barbara Phillips, Pantry Co-Chair. “Whether you’re an artist in need or someone with materials to share, you’re part of building a more vibrant and inclusive arts community.”

The program is part of SACA’s broader mission to promote, inspire, encourage, and support arts and culture in greater Southbury through community-driven programming, public art, and equitable access to creative resources.

Residents are encouraged to look for SACA’s signature donation bins at participating locations and to follow the Alliance on social media for updates about future events and needs.

For more information, to get involved, or to suggest a future donation site, please contact info@southburyartsandculturealliance.org.

SACA Community Artists’ Pantry Committee:

(Left to right): Kristen Angell Iseppi, Sherrie Romano (Co-Chair), Kelly Keenan. Not pictured: Barbara Phillips (Co-Chair)

About the Southbury Arts & Culture Alliance (SACA)

SACA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to promoting, inspiring, and supporting the arts and cultural life of the greater Southbury community (including Bridgewater, Middlebury, Newtown, Oxford, Roxbury, and Woodbury). Through events, partnerships, and advocacy, SACA empowers artists and enriches the town’s cultural landscape. Learn more at www.southburyartsandculturealliance.org and follow “southburyarts” on Facebook and Instagram.