Catholic Charities Boston Launches New Campaign to Support Community Assistance Fund

Heat in the winter. Gas for the car. Food on the table. These are just some of the daily costs that too many families in Eastern Massachusetts are having difficulty paying for.  

Rising costs, coupled with cuts to safety net programs such as SNAP, make it harder than ever for our neighbors to make ends meet. A new initiative from Catholic Charities Boston looks to further address those basic needs emergencies and help those who are facing urgent financial hardships. 

The 250 Challenge: Neighbors Helping Neighbors initiative, named in honor of the United States 250th anniversary, aims to fund 250 pressing needs for local families. Donations to this campaign will go to help cover a family’s daily essentials, such as groceries, transportation, utility bills, and other essential household expenses. 

Rising to Meet the Need 

It is the direct impact that not only gives Catholic Charities clients like Irma peace of mind, but also the foundation to further build a more sustainable life for themselves and their families. 

When the rent support Irma received from the state was cut, she was scared she would need to move her family, including her daughter and elderly parents, out of their home. 

“(Catholic Charities) helps pay the rent gap so I can start paying full rent myself,” said Irma. “Because of you, we did not move, and my family stayed in the place we know. I am very grateful for this help.”  

Cheryl wouldn’t have been able to heat her home this past winter if not for Catholic Charities’ help. “Now I have oil to keep my place warm, and I feel safe,” she said. “I am very grateful for what you did for me.” 

And because of Catholic Charities’ financial assistance, Lisa was able to pay off the remaining balance on her electrical bill and move her family into a new apartment that better fit their needs. 

How to Get Involved 

Donations for the 250 Challenge are accepted here. Support will provide someone with transportation to work, supply a month’s worth of groceries, and help pay rent to prevent eviction, among other critical needs.    

If you are interested in getting more involved, you can sign up to be a fundraiser for the campaign here. For more information, email Katherine Houston at katherine_houston@ccab.org.