How to give to those in need

Whether it’s heating assistance, extra money for rent or groceries, residents of Cape Cod and the Islands could use a little extra help this time of year. Cape Cod Times starts once again Cape Cod Times Neighbors Fund Holiday fundraising campaign to provide community members with the help they need.

Established in 1936, the fund (formerly known as the Needy Fund) has helped thousands of people. With a target of $1,650,000 this year, the fund will help more Cape and Island residents cope with life’s challenges.

“The Neighborhood Fund truly embodies the spirit of ‘neighbors helping neighbors,’ which is why I believe it has continued to be a vital part of our community for the past 88 years,” said Neighbors Fund Executive Director Susan Johnson.

In 2023, donors helped raise $1,656,143, exceeding the $1,600,000 goal. And these donations have come a long way. The fund assisted 4,154 Cape & Islands residents throughout the year in fiscal 2023.

Johnson said the fund has helped 3,439 people this year and the busy winter season is just getting started.

The Neighborhood Fund has responded to more than 6,700 calls for help so far this year. Regardless of whether Neighbors Fund can provide financial assistance at the time of the call, each caller receives referrals to agencies and resources tailored to their specific needs. Financial assistance is paid to the homeowner or seller on behalf of the customer.

Housing benefit is the #1 demand

He said help with housing was the number one request, leading to an increase in the need for financial assistance for heat, electricity and food in the winter.

“Food insecurity remains a huge issue; people tell us they are tired of choosing between keeping the lights on and putting food on their table. “We are increasingly seeing this with our older customers whose fixed incomes are not increasing enough to cover the increasing costs of food and utilities, especially electricity,” Johnson said. he said.

Seniors in their 80s and 90s who have never sought help are now seeking help, along with people who received help through expiring COVID-era financial aid programs for food, child care and rent. An unexpected emergency, such as a car repair, medical bill, or reduced work hours, may lead a person to seek help.

“If there’s one thing I can share with our donors, it’s that you can really hear the relief in people’s voices when they find out the Neighbors Fund can help. The support we provide goes beyond financial aid; Offering peace of mind, hope and reassurance during difficult or traumatic times. “The gratitude expressed by those we were able to help is a powerful reminder of the profound impact an act of kindness and generosity has on the lives of real people,” Johnson said.

What is the Neighbors Fund?

non-profit organization Cape Cod Times Neighbors Fund It provides short-term emergency assistance to Cape and Islands residents so they can continue to go to work and/or stay in their homes. People in need submit their requests for assistance to the Neighborhood Fund, which then pays for goods or services (e.g. medical bills) through a voucher system. No cash is given to Neighbors Fund recipients.

How to donate to the Neighbors Fund?

Tax-deductible donations can be made online at: neighborsfund.org/cct

Checks can be made payable to:

Cape Cod Times Neighbors FundP.O. Box 36Hyannis, MA 02601

How to get Neighbors Fund assistance?

Those needing assistance can contact the Neighbors Fund at 508-778-5661 or 800-422-1446.

Questions can be emailed to: [email protected]. Neighbors Fund is also on Facebook (facebook.com/Neighborsfund) and X (@neighbour fund). Visit the site at: neighborfund.org.

Housing benefit is the #1 demand

What is the Neighbors Fund?

How to donate to the Neighbors Fund?

How to get Neighbors Fund assistance?

Related Posts