“I’m asking anyone who is fortunate enough right now to have something extra to share, to please donate to help the families, neighbors, and displaced workers in our community who are facing serious and urgent needs. Your generosity has never been so needed or appreciated.” –Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone

DONATE NOW TO HELP PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY

The Somerville Cares Fund, established by Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone in partnership with United Way of Massachusetts Bay and the Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), will mobilize resources for expanded food and supply access and emergency assistance to households who are financially impacted, with a focus on those who are most economically vulnerable during the pandemic. This fund will deploy resources through CAAS and other nonprofit partners to address the essential needs of Somerville community members facing the many challenges brought on by the crisis.

BACKGROUND

As COVID-19 reverberates across hospitals, offices, schools, and homes, many in Somerville are being impacted in ways they never imagined a month ago.  Businesses who make up the backbone of our local economy have significantly reduced their hours or have been forced to close. People are struggling to make ends meet. This fund was established to mobilize those who can give to do so, generously, in support of their neighbors.

HOW WILL THE Somerville CAREs FUND HELP?

At this time, this fund will focus on meeting the basic needs of families and individuals. Priority will be given to those who are most economically vulnerable to this crisis. All donations will be collected by United Way and distributed by CAAS and other established Somerville nonprofit organizations with a track record of administering assistance funds. These funds will cover the costs of essential needs including, but not limited to, food, medications, rent, utilities, childcare, and other basic necessities.

HOW CAN I GIVE TO THE Somerville CARES FUND?

You can donate to our 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 Somerville Cares 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 “Somerville Cares Fund” in the memo of your check.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I NEED ASSISTANCE?

Click here or on the “Get Help” button at the top of this page to see the eligibility criteria for the Somerville Cares Fund and complete an application for assistance.