The Neponset Neighbors Together Fund (“NNTF”) is a collaboration among United Way, the Town of Milton, and the Boston neighborhoods of Mattapan, Dorchester and Hyde Park through Boston City Councilors Andrea Campbell and Ricardo Arroyo, the Milton Interfaith Clergy Association, and Courageous Conversations Toward Racial Justice Milton-Mattapan, to establish a COVID-19 Fund to support neighbors of Milton, Mattapan, Hyde Park and Dorchester, who are adversely impacted by the current health crisis.
DONATE NOW TO HELP PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY
The Neponset Neighbors Together Fund, established by community leaders in partnership with United Way of Massachusetts Bay, will help individuals and families who have been financially impacted by this coronavirus pandemic with a focus on our most economically vulnerable neighbors.
BACKGROUND
Bridges build community. The Harvest River Bridge along the Neponset River Greenway brings together the communities of Mattapan and Milton, embodying a history marked by opposition, advocacy, fear, prejudice and ultimately, resilience.
COVID-19 affects us all, and we’re stronger when we work together. For this reason, the communities of Milton, Mattapan, Hyde Park and Dorchester are uniting to raise funds that will support our neighborhoods as one. Our families have been deeply impacted by this public health crisis, with a high incidence of infection, serious illness and casualties, and when we work together, we can ensure that the most vulnerable among us have the resources they need to weather this crisis.
WHAT CAN THE NEPONSET NEIGHBORS TOGETHER FUND HELP PEOPLE WITH?
This crisis is evolving quickly and the priorities of this fund may change as the needs of our community evolve. The funds will be focused on the needs of individuals rather than capacity funds to nonprofits. They can be used to support families’ basic needs such as rent, food, utilities, internet connectivity for families with school-aged children, essential supplies and medications and other basic needs. Priority will be given to those who are most economically vulnerable to this crisis. In the coming weeks and months, we’ll be working with the United Way and several local human services agencies to raise and distribute funds as quickly as possible to individuals and families in need.
HOW CAN I GIVE TO THE NEPONSET NEIGHBORS TOGETHER FUND?
You can give to the fund by clicking the yellow GIVE TODAY button above or by clicking here. All gifts are tax-deductible and 100% of the proceeds (net credit card fees) will go to individuals seeking assistance via nonprofits already working in our community. You may also give via your Donor Advised Fund by including “The United Way Neponset Neighbors Together Fund” in your recommendation details. Our tax ID number is 04-2382233.
You can also send a check to the following address: United Way of Massachusetts Bay, Inc., P.O. Box 412866, Boston, MA. 02241-2866. Please make checks out to “United Way of Massachusetts Bay” and include “Neponset Neighbors Together Fund” in the memo of your check.
HOW WILL MY DONATION HELP?
All donations will be collected by United Way and distributed by established nonprofit organizations with a track record of administering assistance funds. These funds will pay for rent, food, utilities, internet connectivity for families with school-aged children, childcare, medications and other basic needs.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I NEED ASSISTANCE?
The Neponset Neighbors Together Fund exists to mobilize those who can give to support their neighbors. We are forming a coalition of local providers who will distribute emergency financial assistance. In the coming days, visit this space for more detailed information on fund eligibility requirements and information about where to inquire for support. Until then, if you need immediate help, please contact United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline or visit mass211.org for comprehensive information and referrals related to the virus.
Heartfelt Support
As a part of this community fundraising initiative, a Milton HS student has produced front door heart signs for purchase with all proceeds donated to the Neponset Neighbors Together Fund. When you see these signs, they represent our saying thanks to all frontline workers and supporting our neighbors impacted by this crisis. We are hoping to have all area houses and houses of worship as well as businesses showing this visible heartfelt support. Use the above yellow button link to donate and fill out the form here to obtain your sign. For donations by Cash or Check use this link for information and to make those arrangements. Supplies are limited.
Masthead Image: Nikolai Zychowicz
Help Us Help our Neponset Neighbors
Your donation will help individuals and families stay afloat during these uncertain times.