Since starting as Director of Social Services in 2013, Tony has seen Ridgefield change from a town that focuses on the needs of senior citizens to a town that provides services for an entire families.

As part of Tony’s job, he must be able to assess each new situation that is presented, find possible resources, write grants, work with the other agencies in town, fundraise, and communicate with the public. His door is always open and he can always find a solution to a problem. When residents from other towns approach him, Tony does not turn them away, but helps them to make connections in their own town.    

Finding the money to help residents pay rent and bills, buy food, receive medical help, and still have a decent quality of life is the goal of the Social Services Department. A great deal of Tony's work is managing the Emergency Fund, which aids residents who are experiencing financial insecurity by providing grocery gift cards, heating assistance, electricity, clothing, and other basic needs.

Tony is a certified social worker - a certification that he feels is important to his job.  In addition, he is empathetic, a good listener, has strong networking skills, is able to meet any challenge, and understands that a new day brings new situations. Each day, he is putting together a new puzzle. Ridgefield residents are not alone during the tough times. The Social Services Department is a place where people will find compassion, support and the necessary resources for survival.