For six decades, Community Action Partnership of Strafford County has been a cornerstone of support, growth, and resilience in our region. From its humble beginnings in the 1960s to the robust network of programs it offers today, CAPSC has consistently adapted to meet the changing needs of the community. As we celebrate this incredible milestone, let’s take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come—not just as an organization, but as a community—and the evolving challenges we continue to address together.

Then and Now: A Changing Landscape

Sixty years ago, the world looked very different. In 1965, the average cost of a gallon of gas was 30 cents, a loaf of bread was 22 cents, and the median home price in the U.S. was around $19,000. Today, those numbers have skyrocketed. The average cost of gas in New Hampshire is now over $3 per gallon, a loaf of bread can cost upwards of $3, and the median home price in the state exceeds $400,000. These dramatic increases in living expenses have created new barriers for families striving to achieve financial stability.

At the same time, Strafford County has experienced significant population growth. In the 1960s, the county’s population was approximately 63,000. Today, that number has more than doubled, exceeding 130,000 residents. With this growth comes both opportunity and complexity—more voices to uplift, more needs to address, and a greater demand for programs that provide equitable access to resources.

Check out some amazing photos we pulled from the archives!