I’ve often wondered about the origin of the name ‘Roots and Wings,’ and when I went there on Friday morning to volunteer, Director Melinda Mandeville explained.

“The roots are the basis for community when people need help they always have their roots and we try to offer any help we can. Wings, as in independence, because it is always our hope that those being aiding by our program will be able to fly on their own eventually,” said Mandeville.

Roots and Wings is a a partnership program sponsored by Catholic Charities and works closely with many local agencies including Opportunities for Chenango. The agency works with individuals and families to help address their needs and to build longer-term solution to problems.

The basic needs program was established in 1997 and was designed to “coordinate, assist, strengthen and promote opportunities for people to move from dependence to self-sufficiency,” states the program in its mission statement.