ABCD leads initiative to aid and empower those hardest hit by pandemic
When Governor Baker declared a state of emergency in March 2020 due to the surging COVID-19 pandemic, ABCD was on the frontlines ramping up programs and services. But we quickly saw that, despite the broad spectrum of programs and services we offer, we could reach more people in desperate circumstances more quickly and fill crucial gaps in service if we joined forces with other organizations.
Thanks to a crucial $9 million infusion of Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding and leveraging our strong infrastructure and community connections, we reached out to nonprofit organizations across Greater Boston and built a coalition of 20 agencies that together have delivered emergency services to nearly 100,000 people to date.
ABCD President/CEO John J. Drew said the results have been impressive. “Governor Baker lifted the state of emergency on June 15th, and many Massachusetts residents think life is back to ‘normal,’ but that is not the case for our most vulnerable neighbors.
“Too many in our communities lost income, lost jobs, and lost loved ones to the coronavirus. They’re saddled with debt, and their economic recovery will take months, if not years. This coalition is here for them, responding to their complex needs and providing services that keep them out of crisis,” Drew said.
Along with providing basic survival resources, from fresh vegetables to baby formula, from housing vouchers to help with electric bills, coalition members are also helping struggling households to prepare for a better future through expanding internet access and providing training and employment.
By collaborating with these partners, which include the Greater Boston Food Bank, Asian American Civic Association, Urban College of Boston, the JFK Center, and Breaktime, we have distributed 3.2 million pounds of food, provided internet and hardware to support remote learning to 100 households, and provided nearly 200 individuals with coaching, case management, career counseling, and workforce development.
Follow us on social media for regular updates on the positive impact of this important collaboration.
