DONATE NOW TO HELP PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY

The Winchester COVID-19 Community Care Fund, established by Town Manager Lisa Wong and members of the Select Board, together with United Way of Massachusetts Bay, will mobilize resources to support Winchester residents who in need of emergency assistance due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This fund will deploy resources through nonprofit partners for expanded food distribution efforts and to support the most economically vulnerable neighbors in our community.

BACKGROUND

As COVID-19 reverberates across hospitals, offices, schools, and homes, many in Winchester are being impacted in ways they never imagined a month ago.  This fund was established to mobilize those who can give to do so, generously, in support of their neighbors.

HOW WILL THE Winchester COMMUNITY CARE FUND HELP?

At this time, the Winchester Community Care fund will focus on expanded distribution of food assistance and assistance for residents who have lost income and are unable to afford their housing. Partners include the Council on Aging, Winchester Got Lunch, Council on Social Concern, and Metro Housing|Boston. The Fund will give priority to those who are most economically vulnerable and all donations will be collected by United Way and distributed by these established Winchester area nonprofit organizations. Payments will be sent to the vendor or provider of services; money will not be given to individuals directly.

HOW CAN I GIVE TO THE Winchester COVID-19 CARE FUND?

You can donate to our fund by clicking the yellow GIVE TODAY button 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 Winchester COVID-19 Care 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 “Winchester Covid-19 Care Fund” in the memo of your check.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I NEED ASSISTANCE?

For help with food, please contact the following:

• Winchester Council on Aging, call Suzanne Norton at (781) 721-7136
• Winchester Got Lunch, sign up here
• Council on Social Concern, call Julia Guthro at 781-935-6495 ext. 232

If you need help affording your housing, visit Metro Housing|Boston’s Housing Hub. If you need other assistance, please contact United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline or visit mass211.org for comprehensive information and referrals related to the virus.