Town welfare director Frank Sterling will never forget that day last fall when an elderly man approached him for help. The man, who had been drinking, said he needed welfare assistance.
Sterling is able to hook poor people up with food, medicine, emergency shelter and clothes.
I said I can't give you my help until I get your name, address and Social Security number. The man grew angry, said he had paid taxes in Jaffrey for years and shouldn't have to do that. He left before Sterling could sit down with him and find out what he needed. Left before he could refer him to the Community Kitchen. Left before he tell him other ways to get help.