Watertown Hires Director of City’s New Human Services Department

The following announcement was provided by the City of Watertown:

The City of Watertown is excited to introduce Jenna Bancroft, LICSW, as the City’s first Human Services Director!

Jenna joins Watertown after over four years with the City of Newton, where she most recently served as the Director of Human Services. During her time there, Jenna was a key figure in the City’s on-going efforts in providing case management to residents in need of food access, financial assistance, housing, and other supports. Jenna also facilitated the Newton Coalition for Community Wellness, where she delivered community-based wellness, education, and resources about substance use to residents.

The Human Services Director position and Department are newly created in Watertown after being a primary recommendation in the Health and Human Services Assessment project the City undertook in 2023 and 2024. This position will oversee the development of the City’s Human Services Strategic Plan, lead community outreach to local human services organizations and partners, champion supports on food security programs, and much more. In establishing this department, the City’s Community Wellness team, including Live Well Watertown, and the City’s Food Pantry will fall under Jenna’s direction.

Jenna is no stranger to Watertown and its human services ecosystem. She spent four years working at Wayside Youth & Family Support Network serving as the organization’s Social Services Resource Specialist and the Outpatient Therapy Clinician. She provided case management and crisis supports to residents, as well as facilitated prevention education on substance use.

City Manager George Proakis looks forward to Jenna leading the City’s efforts as Human Services Director, highlighting her innovation and familiarity with the landscape as being key; “Jenna’s experience across the diverse landscape of human services is hard to beat. She has experience working with those who need direct services, she has experience in creating change within municipal government, and she has proven to be a leader in communities, including Watertown. We’re excited to see where she brings the new Human Services Department to help our community.”

In reflecting on what she plans to do first, Jenna shared, “I’m so excited to return to Watertown in this new role to work alongside community-based organizations and develop relationships across the city. The Human Services Department will be dedicated to serving the needs of the community, and I look forward to ensuring we do that in a meaningful way that serves all residents.” Jenna’s first day will be July 7, 2025.

Join us in welcoming Jenna Bancroft to the City of Watertown!