Jean has been Exec Director of the WARM Center for 14 years.  Since that time the Center has incorporated 8 interrelated programs into the services they provide for the hungry and homeless in the community and at the shelter.  Ordained as an Episcopal Deacon, Jean has been in the social service arena statewide since 1978. Jean started her career at Warwick Community Action (now West Bay Community Action) as the Director of The Community Food and Nutrition Program. She has lobbied for the Mental Health Association, organized food closets, community gardens and soup kitchens.  Through Church Women United Jean’s ministries have included Cambodian Refugees, AIDS Buddy’s and Prison Ministry.

Her success at WARM includes the addition of the Attire for Hire program, Harvest Homes, Summer Lunch Program, and Volunteer Income Tax Preparation, visiting nurse practioner, Community Critical Needs Caseworker, transitional housing and a 1.3 million dollar award from HUD for 8 supportive housing units. 

Jean has worked tirelessly for all people in need throughout her career always maintaining the respect and dignity of the clients she serves.

Also being honored at the luncheon is Russ Partridge, WARM Program Director.  Russ will receive the Sr.  Judy Soares and John Coen Memorial Award presented in honor of our late colleagues. Through these wonderful role models the Coalition honors a member agency staff person that demonstrates an outstanding commitment and concern for those who are homeless. Russ has been in the social service field for the better part of thirty years, starting at Kent County Mental Health as a crisis intervention worker.  Russ has worked with children, adolescents, mental health patients, homeless families and individuals.  Prior to coming to the WARM Center Russ rose through the ranks at Crossroads R.I. from case manager to Director of Housing to Director of Social Services. Russ has been at WARM since July of 2008 and continues to make an impact on the lives of those he serves.