ANONYMOUS SUPPORTERS OFFER TO MATCH DONATIONS TO SUPPORT LOCAL ANTIPOVERTY AGENCY WORKING TO MEET CRITICAL NEEDS
As many local businesses and organizations are shutting down, services at a local antipoverty agency are ramping up. Community Action Pioneer Valley, the local nonprofit that administers more than 40 social service programs like fuel assistance, food pantries, WIC, and workforce development programs, continues to provide critical services and basic needs to lower-income Franklin and Hampshire County residents.
“Our work has never been more critical,” says the agency’s Executive Director Clare Higgins. “Some of our staff are distributing food and diapers. Some are reaching out to at-risk families to make sure they’re OK. Some are certifying emergency fuel applications so that people stay warm and our local vendors are paid. All of our staff are taking precautions and working remotely whenever possible.”
Community Action, which employs 350 people and serves nearly 30,000 lower-income residents each year, has adapted service delivery to protect both staff and participants. The agency’s Center for Self-Reliance Food Pantries, which typically operate as choice food pantries, are now offering pre-bagged groceries available at curbside pickup.
“We’re doing our part to flatten the curve while upholding our commitment to our most vulnerable neighbors.” Higgins reports that about 90% of the staff are working from home and connecting with clients remotely.
“We recognize that the economic devastation of COVID-19 will long outlast the virus itself, and we know that lower-income workers will be hit the hardest,” says Jessye Deane, Director of Communications and Development.
To prepare for the increase in need, Community Action has created a COVID-19 Emergency Fund, 100% of which will go directly to helping local individuals and families who need it most. “We are extremely grateful to the anonymous donors who have offered to match donations up to $10,500,” says Deane. The Emergency Fund will allow the agency to flexibly meet the emerging needs of those hit hardest by COVID-19. “Right now, we’re all looking for the helpers, and we’re thankful to have 350 helpers working at Community Action Pioneer Valley.”
If you find yourself in need of help, please contact Community Action. If you find yourself with the ability to help, please donate online at www.communityaction.us or mail checks to Community Action, attention: Jessye Deane, at 393 Main Street in Greenfield.