NEWPORT, The NEK Collaborative has launched NEKstrong.com, an online tool designed to help people across the Northeast Kingdom find local resources. The site is a joint effort involving service providers, nonprofits, and chambers of commerce.
The portal is organized into three main categories: individuals and families, businesses, and communities. Each category includes subsections such as food, housing, healthcare, business coaching, and community grants. The site also features information tied to current regional issues, including COVID-19 recovery and broadband access.
NEK Collaborative Director Katherine Sims said the idea grew out of the pandemic, when many people reported not knowing what help was available. “We heard from so many people that they didn’t even know certain resources existed,” Sims said. “How would they if they didn’t know where to look for them?”
During the crisis, community members began compiling resource information into a shared document. As that document grew, organizers decided a more structured website was needed. Site builder Carey Murphy said ease of use was a priority. “We especially don’t want this tool to be one more headache for people trying to get what they need,” Murphy said.
The site includes contact information for each organization and allows users to search across all pages. If users still cannot find what they need, the site directs them to call 2-1-1, Vermont’s free resource-referral hotline.
Darcie McCann, executive director of the NEK Chamber, called the project a “very satisfying effort” that brought many groups together. The site will be regularly updated, and the development team is accepting feedback and submissions from the public.
Originally reported by Newport Dispatch.
Photo: Mometrix Test Prep via Unsplash. Photo is illustrative and not from the scene.
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