Thompson Congregational, United Church of Christ is looking to serve those in the community who are fighting addictions. Beginning in May, the church will begin distributing money for Thompson residents seeking recovery from addition.
 

“This is a new way for our church to serve the town, and we will continue to show our neighbors that we love you,” said Rev. Greg Gray, pastor of the Thompson church.
 
The funds will come from the church’s Holbrook Fund, a fund that dates back to the Civil War era. It was created by Civil War Surgeon, Dr. Lowell Holbrook who set up the fund for Thompson residence who needed help with medical bills. In recent years, the church has occasionally given money form the fund to the Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group, a local social services partner of the church, but this was done infrequently. Nor has any money been added to the fund, but it had drawn interest for over 150 years with little draw.
 
“We wish to honor Dr. Holbrook’s legacy while also being a prophetic witness to the community we serve. We are well aware that every family has been touched by the horrors of addiction. It kills individuals, as well as hurts our families and community,” said Gray.
 
The church will begin distributing funds on May 1. Those with specific needs in the Thompson community or who know of someone in the community seeking help for addiction should contact Rev. Gray through the church office at (860) 923-2431. The church is also looking for contributions to the fund which can be directed to the church, PO Box 308, Thompson, CT 06277, designated for the Holbrook Fund.