GREENFIELD — The city has announced the start of fundraising efforts for the Elderly and Disabled Tax Fund, a municipal program designed to help neighbors stay in their homes.
As the cost of living rises, many seniors and people with disabilities who live on fixed incomes are facing increased financial pressure. To prevent these community members from risking the loss of their homes due to unpaid property taxes, the Taxation Fund Committee — a five-member committee established by Greenfield’s City Council in June 2024 that includes the town treasurer, the chair of the Board of Assessors and three citizens appointed by the mayor — has set an initial fundraising goal of $25,000.
“Greenfield has always been a city where neighbors look out for one another,” Mayor Ginny Desorgher said in a statement. “The Elderly and Disabled Taxation Fund is a perfect example of that spirit in action. Even a small donation can help lift a heavy burden off a neighbor’s shoulders, ensuring they can age in place safely and securely.”
The program is funded entirely by community donations. Residents can donate:
- Via municipal bills by looking for the option to add a voluntary donation when paying property tax, personal property tax or water/sewer bills.
- By checks payable to City of Greenfield, with “Elderly and Disabled Taxation Fund” written on the memo line. Checks can be mailed to or dropped off at 14 Court Square, Greenfield, MA 01301.
Donations go into a special account in the city’s treasury and are not tax-deductible.
Eligible households may receive a maximum of $2,000 in assistance. Applications for 2027 relief will be available through the Assessor’s Office and online starting in September 2026.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be at least 60 years old or have a state-recognized disability.
- Be the titled owner of the home and have lived in Greenfield for at least five consecutive years.
- Meet annual household income limits (approximately $46,000 for a single person) and have total assets (excluding the home) not exceeding $100,000.
For more information, visit greenfield-ma.gov/departments/assessor/elderly_and_disabled_tax_relief.php.