Your guide to the heart of Litchfield County:
Discover local stories, hidden gems, and must-know events.

In 2025, Litchfield County’s real estate market stayed strong despite rising interest rates and limited inventory. Most buyers were Brooklyn and Manhattan transplants, attracted by more space and fresh air. The county’s top schools, lower taxes, top-notch restaurants, and stunning rural landscapes proved irresistible to buyers. Below is a selection of properties that changed hands.

Klemm Real Estate
Unparalleled custom-built modern Lake Waramaug estate in Washington: five-bedroom main house, two-bedroom guesthouse, large barn, infinity pool, hot tub, outdoor kitchen. One-hundred-foot water frontage, dock, and views. Many amenities. Abuts land trust property and hiking trails. Gated entrance. 31.19± Acres.
Price: $6,400,000
Town: Washington
Listing Agent: Peter Klemm and Carolyn Klemm
Sold By: Peter Klemm

Elyse Harney Real Estate
Set on 3 lush acres in the heart of Salisbury, this impeccably renovated 1840-built home blends historic character with modern luxury. Spread across 4,659 sq. ft., the residence features five bedrooms and five baths, rich wood floors, three wood-burning fireplaces plus decorative hearths, and a gourmet kitchen equipped with a 63-inch AGA five-oven range, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and Miele dishwasher. Outside, enjoy perennial gardens, fruit trees, a bluestone terrace, and a 16-by-45-foot heated gunite pool—perfect for summer gatherings.This house has been published many times over the years. Quintessential Connecticut Living!
Price: $2,755,600
Town: Salisbury
Listing Agent:  Elyse Harney Morris and Liza Reiss
Selling Broker: Elyse Harney Real Estate

Drakeley Real Estate
Custom barn home on 14.56 private acres in Litchfield—first time on the market, and built by GEO Barns of Vermont. Tucked at the end of a quiet, private road of just six homes, this uber-efficient property offers a small carbon footprint and a lifestyle close to the land, complete with raised gardens and a chicken coop. Light-filled interiors feature vaulted wood ceilings, Douglas fir exposed beams, wide oak floors, and handcrafted doors throughout. The main-level primary suite opens to an expansive deck. An open living area centers around a floor-to-ceiling stone gas fireplace, with a crisp white kitchen, custom mudroom, and thoughtful details throughout. A truly special one-of-a-kind home.
Price: $1,150,000
Town: Litchfield 
Selling Broker: Drakeley Real Estate

William Raveis Lifestyles Realty
Litchfield County’s highest residential sale of 2025*. Dragonfly Farm in Kent, one of the most unique estates in New England, began in the 1700s with the construction of the mill and the millkeeper’s house (which now serves as the guest house). The Federal-style stone house was added to the property in the early 19th century. In the 20th century, this main house was expanded by owner and architect Heathcote Woolsey. It was then owned by the Hammerstein family (of Rogers & Hammerstein fame). The current compound includes the five-bedroom residence, two-bedroom guest house, antique barn, office/gym/game room complex above the four-plus car garage, caretaker’s house, and a stone cabana. *Source SMARTMLS
Price: $6,700,000
Town: Kent
Listing Agent: Stacey Matthews

Bain Real Estate
While seemingly the world has lost touch…here is a sanctuary of calm, passion and clarity. This property harkens back to old world principles of honest craftsmanship, respect for the materials. Roadside perspective presumes a 1700’s farmstead, rejuvenated. The reality is a carefully crafted 20 year old colonial Saltbox and large finished barn. Wood-shingled roof; beaded clapboard siding, Hand-tooled pine floors. A brook tumbles through a sweeping pasture all enclosed in dry laid stone walls. Tucked away on 91 serene acres along a quiet dead-end road, this exquisite timber-frame home is a rare blend of historic practicality and modern convenience. A host of modern conveniences like ovens set in New England fieldstone, Vermont farmers sink, Subzero faced cabinetry plus AC and GeoThermal heat
Price: $1,800,000
Town: 
Listing Agent:

William Raveis (Susan O’Dell)
This beautifully designed two-bedroom, three-bath home in Goshen spans 2,177 sq.ft. and offers an expansive 2.45 acres of private space, perfect for those seeking tranquility without sacrificing convenience. Step inside to an open floor plan that radiates brightness, stunning hardwood floors, built-in bookcases, and soaring ceilings. The centerpiece of the living area is a striking floor-to-ceiling fireplace, creating a cozy atmosphere for gatherings. We closed this home just in time for the holidays!
Price: $664,000 
Town: Goshen
Listing Agent: Susan O’Dell

William Pitt KimRon Group
Discover the timeless elegance of 102 North St., a quintessential Litchfield residence that recently achieved a noteworthy sale. This exceptional property, located in the heart of historic Litchfield County, embodies classic New England charm with modern amenities. Having sold on December 16 for an impressive $1,825,000, it stands as a prime example of the enduring strength and desirability of the local luxury real estate market. The home offers serene living and sophisticated architectural details, making it a truly captivating property. Its featured sale marks one of the standout transactions of the 2025 market recap.  
Price: $1,825,000
Town: Litchfield
Selling Broker: Jaime Richichi,  William Pitt Sotheby’s Kent Office

William Pitt Sotheby’s (Julie King)
White Tail Farm is an 86-plus-acre estate offering the best of New England living. Centered around a restored c.1790s farmhouse, the property was substantially renovated and expanded, resulting in a spacious residence that artfully combines historical elements with modern amenities. The property features an in-law and main house, guest house, heated gunite pool, tennis court, sports court, spring-fed pond, three-car garage, and four-stall barn. This Roxbury home was offered at $6,250,000 and was listed by Jeffrey Phillips and Mark Madonna of the Madonna & Phillips Team at William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty.
Price:$6,250,000
Town: Roxbury
Listing Agent: Jeffrey Phillips and Mark Madonna of the Madonna & Phillips Team at William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty

Happening in the Hills staff members share their favorites of Litchfield County.

Palmier Cookies
Cynthia Hochswender, Copy Editor, Happening in the Hills
Definitely worth driving out of your way for: the palmier cookies at The Bantam Bread Co. They’re light and crispy, with a caramely crunch.   
Bantam Bread 
853 Bantam Road, Bantam
bantambread.com

Chai Latte
Vanessa Hammond, Business Manager, Happening in the Hills
A chai latte at The Smithy is my happy place in a cup—spicy, sweet, and totally addictive. Add the café’s cozy, welcoming vibes and you get my favorite drink in my favorite spot.
The Smithy Cafe at 9 Main
9 Main St., New Preston
cafeat9main.com

The Po Cafe
Paula Cornell, Writer, Happening in the Hills
Favorite: Customer service at the Po Cafe
They were the first local business to learn my name when I moved here, and even sent tea and a cookie when I was sick.
The Po Cafe
5 Kirby Road, Washington
https://www.instagram.com/thepocafe

Egg and Cheese Sandwich
Christopher Stella, Writer, Happening in the Hills
Always searching for the perfect egg and cheese sandwich, Blue Gate’s pillowy rolls and sharp cheddar make them Litchfield County’s uncontested champion (in my book).
Blue Gate Boulanger Pâtissier
2 Route 7, Sharon
bluegatefarmct.com

High 5 Pies
Alexandra Mazza, Editorial Assistant, Dutchess Magazine
The best pies money can buy—especially the triple berry! Find them at local shops such as Jam in Sharon or Conundrum Farm in Kent. 
High 5 Pies 
Washington
instagram.com/high5pies

Ilse Coffee
D Callahan, Newsletter Editor
For me, there’s nothing better than taking a winter hike on a Cornwall Conservation Trust trail with a cup of coffee made from beans roasted locally at Ilse in North Canaan. 
Ilse Coffee
35 Railroad St., North Canaan
ilsecoffee.com

Pasta Heaven
Jill Lawlor, Sales Executive, Litchfield Magazine
A local family business for over 30 years. Their fresh homemade pasta, Italian meals, and support of the local community make this shop a hidden gem in Litchfield county.
Pasta Heaven
241 Main St.,Terryville
pastaheaven.net

Mayflower Martini
Charles Dubow, Writer, Happening in the Hills
One of my favorite things to do in Litchfield County is to drink a martini in the Tap Room atThe Mayflower. 
Tap Room, Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Collection
118 Woodbury Road/Rte. 47, Washington 
auberge.com/mayflower

Cupcakes
Zandria Oliver, Production Assistant, Happening in the Hills
Best known for their delicious and creatively decorated cupcakes (vegan options too!)—from cocktail cupcakes to hot fudge cupcakes, they do it all. 
Hardcore Sweet Bakery
619 Main St., Watertown 
hardcoresweetbakery.com

Pepper and Egg Sandwich
Mary Beth Lawlor, Publisher and Editor, Happening in the Hills
Served on a billowy-soft hard roll, fluffy scrambled eggs are folded with melted American cheese and a hint of spicy peppers—simple, yet deeply satisfying.
Petraroia Deli
33 West St., Litchfield
petraroiadeli.com 

Catherine Rawson, executive director of the Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy, brings deep expertise in environmental law and land protection. With leadership roles across state and national conservation organizations, she explains the importance of conservation easements—how they safeguard land, preserve natural habitats, and ensure the long-term health of our region’s landscapes.

1. What is a conservation easement, and how does it work?

A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement in which a landowner permanently limits certain types of development or uses on their property to protect significant natural, agricultural, scenic, or historic features. While the property remains privately owned, a qualified organization, often a land trust or government agency, holds the easement and ensures its terms are upheld. Notably, conservation easements remain in effect in perpetuity, even if the property is sold or transferred. Landowners continue to own, enjoy, and use the land, subject to the terms of the easement, while knowing that its conservation values will be permanently protected.

2. What types of natural resources are typically protected by a conservation easement, and why are they important?

In northwest Connecticut, conservation easements are often used to safeguard the natural features that make our region special—its forests, clean streams, wetlands, wildlife habitat (including areas used by rare or declining species), and productive farmland. Many easements also help link existing protected lands together, creating larger, connected corridors essential for wildlife. Protecting these resources provides lasting benefits for both people and nature. Forests and wetlands help keep our drinking water clean, support a wide range of species, and absorb stormwater that would otherwise contribute to flooding. Conserved farmland safeguards high-quality agricultural soils, and helps ensure continued access to local farms and foods. And, by protecting natural lands and scenic landscapes, conservation easements help maintain community character and quality of life. 

3. What are the benefits of granting a conservation easement?

Conservation easements allow landowners to protect the ecological, agricultural, or scenic qualities of their land while maintaining private ownership and use. If the easement is donated and meets federal requirements, the landowner may also qualify for a charitable tax deduction based on the value of the development rights relinquished. And, conservation easements create lasting community benefits. They help safeguard clean water, support local farms, strengthen climate resilience, protect wildlife habitat, preserve a community’s scenic character, and more. 

4. What role does a land trust play in creating and stewarding an easement over time?

A land trust can help guide a landowner through the process of creating a conservation easement. The land trust assesses the property’s natural and agricultural features, works with the owner to determine what should be protected, and helps craft an easement tailored to the property. After the easement is recorded, the land trust becomes its permanent steward. This includes monitoring the conservation easement at least once a year, building a strong relationship with the landowner, answering questions, providing guidance, and ensuring the easement’s terms are upheld. Its ongoing role is to safeguard the land’s conservation values—now and for every future owner. —ctland.org

Auction for Environment
Photographs by Jill Tedesco Photography

Environmental enthusiasts gathered at South Farms in Morris to support the Housatonic Valley Association’s annual Auction for the Environment on November 22. Hosted by mother-daughter actresses Christine Baranski and Lily Cowles, the event’s boisterous live auction followed a locally inspired silent auction. Funds raised further HVA’s mission of protecting the environmental health of the region stretching from the Berkshires to Long Island Sound. —hvatoday.org

Photographs by Jim Henkens

In February 2026, Salisbury will mark a remarkable milestone, as Jumpfest celebrates its 100th anniversary, honoring a century of ski jumping tradition at historic Satre Hill. Hosted by the Salisbury Winter Sports Association, Jumpfest is one of the oldest continuously running ski jumping competitions in the United States, and a cornerstone of winter life in the Northwest Corner.

The centennial Jumpfest weekend, scheduled for February 6 to 8, will feature the thrilling ski jumping competitions that spectators have come to love, along with longtime crowd favorites such as the Human Dog Sled Race and family-friendly festivities throughout the weekend. Athletes of all ages and abilities will take flight, continuing a legacy that began in 1926.

Looking ahead, Jumpfest’s 100th year also signals meaningful investment in the future of the sport. Significant improvements are underway at Satre Hill, including the construction of a new K36 intermediate jump, upgrades to snowmaking capabilities, and enhanced lighting. These improvements will strengthen training opportunities for young athletes, improve safety, and elevate the overall spectator experience during events.

Proceeds from Jumpfest support youth ski jumping and Nordic programs, ensuring the next generation can carry this tradition forward. As Salisbury celebrates 100 years of winter sports history, Jumpfest remains both a tribute to the past and a bold leap into the future.
—jumpfest.org

It All Starts with Flowers at Enza Events
Custom Event Design and Installation for the Biggest of Days
By D Callahan

For Enza Sorbara of Enza Events, it started with flowers when she was just 13. At the end of an average weekday, she’d leave her junior high classes and go straight to her after-school job at a local flower shop, still wearing her school uniform. She fell in love with flowers back then the same way people fall in love with her arrangements and installations today: quickly, and passionately. 

That passion is what drove the creation of Enza Events, a full-service floral and event design studio where flowers are just the starting point. As the scope of events grew, so did the work—expanding into custom fabrication, installations, and full-scale event design for weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, fundraisers, and galas. From place cards to lighting design, ceiling installations to arches of beautiful blooms, Enza and her team can do it all. And you’ll see what “it all” takes when you visit their fully equipped New Milford studio, where the talented team brings ideas to life through thoughtful design, custom fabrication, meticulous attention to detail, and seamless execution. 

That’s one thing that sets Enza Events apart. They love a challenge. Yes, they thrive on making stunning floral arrangements for every kind of event; but what really revs them up is a unique creative challenge. Sometimes that challenge comes directly from the imagination of a client, whether they’re an event planner, a hands-on bride, or a philanthropist throwing their own event. But not everybody has a crystal clear picture of how their event should look. In those cases, Enza and her team help guide clients to focus their vision and unlock something spectacular. 

And when it comes to creating something spectacular, space matters. Enza and her team do a lot of events in New York City, which, don’t get us wrong, is totally great. There’s an energy to the city that can’t be matched anywhere in the world. But when it comes to the potential to create something uniquely stunning, especially for weddings, nothing beats Litchfield County. “Connecticut offers such beautiful venues and scenery, and there’s a quieter elegance to this area that really lends itself to thoughtful, intentional design,” Enza says. “I love working in a place where I live — it makes the work feel more personal and a bit more connected to the community.

Designing weddings in Connecticut is very different from New York City. There’s more creative freedom here with more room for authenticity, natural beauty, and timeless design. Our clients here tend to value the entire planning/design experience just as much as the end result, which allows us to create events that feel more meaningful rather than overproduced.”

At Enza Events, it starts with flowers. But just like her passion and her business, every event can grow into something much more than beautiful arrangements. Thanks to the creativity, imagination, and ingenuity of Enza and her team, every party, every gala, every bar and bat mitzvah, and of course every wedding is elevated to an event you’ll be proud of long after your last guest has left. 

—enzaevents.com

[Sponsored]

The Washington Art Association & Gallery presents Young Talent, 2026, a collaborative exhibition featuring works from artists under 30 years of age who are not currently enrolled in a degree-granting program. On view from February 14 through March 14, the works will include paintings, photography, works on paper (drawing, printmaking, watercolor, collage), sculptures, ceramics, fiber arts, and digital installations. Visitors are invited to browse through new styles of contemporary art by a new generation of artists. 

The Young Talent Exhibition has been a much-loved tradition of the Washington Art Association for over two decades, and has become a significant platform for emerging young artists. Past participants include now-established artists such as Eric Aho, Cat Balco, Erin Raedeke, Giordanne Salley, Amy Lincoln, and Mark Brousseau. 

There will be an opening reception on February 14 from 4 to 6 pm. The exhibition will then be open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday from noon to 4 pm. 

Washington Art Association & Gallery, 4 Bryan Hall Plaza, Washington Depot —washingtonartassociation.org 

New Season for The Silo

Bringing a Culinary Icon Back to Life

By Paula Cornell

One of Litchfield County’s most iconic and beloved gems is back in operation: The Silo Cooking School at Hunt Hill Farm.

Founded by Ruth and Skitch Henderson in 1972, The Silo was the first recreational cooking school in Connecticut, the impetus for what would later become the Food Network, and a nonprofit promoting art, education, and sustainability. Culinary legends like Julia Child, Jacques Pepin, Wolfgang Puck, and Martha Stewart taught here, not to mention the musicians, artists, and other well-known figures that have passed through. 

Now, under the leadership of Alessandro Piovezahn, newest president and CEO of Hunt Hill Farm Trust, and award-winning chef Dino Kolitsas, director of the cooking school, The Silo’s doors stand open once again, welcoming the community to participate in classes and events.

The Hendersons had a rich background in music and arts in New York before moving to the farm in New Milford. Ruth was a writer and chef; Skitch was a talented pianist who accompanied Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney, founded the New York Pops, and became the musical director of The Tonight Show. 

Their passion was to create something lasting, establishing an arts and cultural hub built on farm-to-table sustainability and community service––elements that remain foundational to this day even after their deaths.

Soon after Piovezahn took over the farm in 2020, he met and teamed up with Kolitsas, who had recently opened his restaurant, Greca Mediterranean Kitchen + Bar, in New Milford. 

“As a chef, the opportunity to bring to life something that was such a big part of the state’s culinary history, something with such a rich backstory—it’s an honor for me. It’s a privilege, and it’s better than winning awards,” says Kolitsas.

As they continue in year two since opening, Kolitsas and Piovezahn will focus on new classes, events, corporate and private experiences, and expanding access through livestreaming and community partnerships. 

“2026 is the year of the cooking school,” says Piovezahn.

Class participants get to cook in a kitchen set in history––the same oven that Julia Child cooked in, the same floors and ceiling from the original 1820 structure, all kept to modern standards while maintaining their rustic charm. A long dinner table is beautifully set in the background, ready for the class to enjoy their culinary masterpieces.

“You could be a professional chef or someone who barely knows how to boil water,” says Kolitsas. “It’s a recreational school. You come to have fun, you learn a lot, you leave with recipes and confidence.”

They have a dozen or more chefs in rotation at any given time, including Carlos Perez, Rich Parente, and Jami Kopec, teaching classes in everything from beef Wellington to Polish pierogies.

This year is the school’s 54th anniversary, and they hope to continue for another 54 years.

“Our goal is to make it the locus for culinary activity in Litchfield County,” says Kolitsas. “We want this to be the place where the best dishes are born and the new and upcoming chefs are discovered––just like it used to be.” —thesilo.org

44 Upland Road, New Milford , 860-355-0300

By Linda Tuccio-Koonz

Ken and Joyce Wood love the wild beauty of a winter snowstorm—every branch of every tree coated in sparkling splendor. Then, when the fields and wooded trails of their Terryville farm are blanketed in white, at least six to eight inches deep, it’s time to harness the horses for sleigh rides.

“People hear the words ‘sleigh ride’ and seem to just light up and think it’s a romantic thing, and it is,” says Ken, who grew up on Wood Acres Farm, where elegant Percherons make the magic happen. “It’s a winter wonderland out there.”

The 25-acre property—like a Currier and Ives scene, with two ponds—has been in his family for five generations. Ken, a farrier, began running sleigh rides in 1972; they do more than 200 in a good season.

Joyce, who is not a skier (she laughs at the idea of it), says winter can be challenging for outdoor fun, but sleigh rides are enjoyable for all ages. Visitors love the experience because it’s a chance to “slow down, get off your phone, and enjoy nature.”

Families, large groups, and couples reserve rides—some celebrate birthdays or other occasions. There’s even been wedding proposals; Victorian-style sleighs set the mood.

When couples come, Joyce invites them inside the cozy farmhouse that serves as the office for their business (Wood Acres Farm is also a wedding venue). Music plays and candles glow.

“I give them blankets (warmed in a dryer) as they go off on their ride,” says Joyce, who knows many of the farm’s visitors cherish this old-fashioned experience as a bucket list item.

Afterward, she serves cookies and hot cocoa. “I love watching them get warmed up and listening to their stories about going off into the woods, especially after a freshly fallen snow.”

If you call for a reservation, you’ll likely reach longtime office manager, Taylor. She’ll answer your questions about everything from what to wear—dress warmly; they recommend snowsuits for kids—to how long you’ll be out—figure 35 to 40 minutes.

“There’s absolutely something magical about traveling via horse and carriage,” Taylor says. “There’s a quietness to it. You feel like you’re floating on the snow. It feels like you’re going back in time, and you get those rosy cheeks…”

Taylor especially enjoys when couples who were married on the farm return for sleigh rides with their growing families. “We get to see their kiddos, and how their love story is continuing.”

Terryville residents Fred Messenger and his wife, Exelda (friends call her Zel), say they’ll never forget their sleigh ride. Fred gave Zel a certificate for her birthday. She’d wanted to go since she was a child, even more after seeing such classics as White Christmas and Dr. Zhivago, plus Hallmark creations.

“He surprised me; I never even realized there was a place (in Terryville) that did this with beautiful carriages and majestic horses. They put a blanket over us and we were one with nature.”

Ken says he’s always loved working with horses, and recently found himself with a great side gig. When not taking the reins at Wood Acres Farm, where carriage and wagon rides are always available, he drives horse-drawn carriages in HBO’s historical drama, The Gilded Age.

Set in 1882, this captivating series follows the lives of New York’s elite, including an aristocrat played by Connecticut’s Christine Baranski. Filming for season two began in May. Ask Ken about it, or anything involving the farm, if you visit for a sleigh ride. He’s happy to share. —woodacresfarm.com

In Litchfield County, it truly takes a village—and now more than ever, our neighbors and local organizations need support. Across our towns, nonprofits do incredible work helping people and animals alike, but they can’t do it alone. From food pantries and pet shelters to schools, libraries, arts organizations, and land trusts, there are countless ways to lend a hand. Reach out to your favorite local nonprofits and see how you can make a difference in our community today.

Housatonic Youth Service Bureau
Strengthening the emotional health of youth and families through free behavioral health services and empowerment programs in the Northwest Corner—hysb.org

The Little Guild
For more than 60 years, The Little Guild has been dedicated to rescuing, healing, and individually nurturing homeless dogs and cats.—littleguild.org

Habitat for Humanity of NW CT
Building stronger communities, helping families achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter. Donate or volunteer.—habitatnwct.org

Sharon Audubon Center
A nature education center with four nature sanctuaries and more than 2,100 primarily wooded acres, a Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic,  trails, exhibits, summer programs for children and more. Donate or volunteer.—sharon.audubon.org

Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Litchfield County
Health and hospice care services to Litchfield County, including home nursing, and clinics for blood pressure, vaccinations, and more.—vnhlc.org

ASAP!
A nonprofit fostering creative learning through the arts for diverse families across 100 towns since 1999.—asapct.org

Steep Rock Association
Protects more than 5,500 acres of land, promoting healthy ecosystems, preserving natural resources, and providing recreational opportunities.—steeprockassoc.org

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust
Protects open space and natural resources in Woodbury, actively identifying future land preservation opportunities.—flandersnaturecenter.org

Animal Welfare Society
Since 1965 has rescued hundreds of homeless cats and dogs, providing care and finding them loving homes.—aws-shelter.org

Pomperaug River Watershed Coalition
Promotes science and education to ensure high-quality water in the Pomperaug Watershed through collaboration and community engagement.—pomperaug.org

FISH: Friends in Service to Humanity of NWCT
Supports the homeless with a 35-bed shelter, and meets food needs for 643 families at the FISH Food Pantry year-round in Torrington.—fishnwct.com

Helping Hands for Wildlife
Dedicate themselves to rehabilitating injured or orphaned native wildlife, releasing them back into their natural habitats.—helpinghandsforwildlife.org

Greenwoods Counseling & Referrals
Offers affordable mental health services in Litchfield County, matching individuals with resources for emotional and psychological support.—greenwoodsreferrals.org

JP Farm Animal Sanctuary
A safe haven for rescued farm animals, the sanctuary promotes compassion, shares inspiring stories, and fosters deep connections with visitors.—jpfarmsanctuary.org

Project SAGE
Works to create a community free of domestic violence, providing a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, counseling, and education.—project-sage.org

Food Rescue US/NWCT
Mission is to fill plates, not landfills. Involves 39 donors, 130 volunteers, and 28 food pantries serving 20,000 food-insecure residents in Litchfield County.––foodrescue.us

Loaves and Fishes Hospitality House
For more than three decades, New Milford’s Loaves and Fishes has provided daily meals, inspired by the motto “Feed the hungry, empower the weak.”––loavesfishesnewmilford.org

Susan B. Anthony Project
Offers 24/7 crisis and support services for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Support their efforts this holiday season.—sbaproject.org

New Milford Hospital
Join New Milford Hospital’s team of volunteers to make a difference. Opportunities include animal assistance, music therapy, hospitality, and more. Email volunteer@nuvancehealth.org or call 203-739-7277.

Camella’s Cupboard
Provides year-round hunger relief to children, seniors, and vulnerable populations in Greater New Milford, without bias.—camellascupboard.com

Chore Service
Since 1992, Chore Service has provided essential non-medical support for seniors and disabled residents in northwest Connecticut, fostering a healthy community.—choreservice.org

Literacy Volunteers on the Green
Offers free English literacy instruction to adults in Litchfield and northern Fairfield Counties, promoting independence through reading, writing, and speaking skills.—lvg-ct.org

The Donkey’s Cross Rescue and Sanctuary
Rescues and rehabilitates unwanted donkeys. Their mission now extends to helping special needs children through their “Read to a Donkey” program.—thedonkeyscross.org

Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy
Protects more than 12,000 acres of natural and working lands, including 23 public preserves and 30-plus farms.—ctland.org

Housatonic Valley Association
A Tri-state nonprofit dedicated to conserving the Housatonic watershed’s natural character and health, through land and water protection, water quality monitoring, and trail development.—hvatoday.org

CJR Impact
Providing the necessary therapeutic treatment, education, and support for young people and their families to promote positive change and transform lives. —cjrimpact.org

Housatonic Habitat for Humanity
Support Housatonic Habitat’s Aging in Place program to provide free, crucial home repairs for low-income seniors and veterans, helping them live safely and independently at home. —HousatonicHabitat.org