GREENFIELD — Community Action Pioneer Valley says it has anonymous supporters who have offered to match any donations to support its antipoverty efforts to meet critical needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the local agency, as many businesses and organizations close, services are ramping up.
Community Action Pioneer Valley, the local nonprofit that administers more than 40 social service programs — such as fuel assistance, food pantries and workforce development programs — continues to provide critical services to lower-income residents of Franklin and Hampshire counties, despite about 90 percent of its staff working from home and connecting with clients remotely.
“Our work has never been more critical,” Executive Director Clare Higgins said. “Some of our staff are distributing food and diapers. Some are reaching out to at-risk families to make sure they’re OK. Some are certifying emergency fuel applications so that people stay warm and our local vendors are paid. All of our staff are taking precautions and working remotely whenever possible.”
Community Action, which employs 350 people and serves nearly 30,000 lower-income residents each year, has adapted service delivery to protect both staff and participants. The agency’s Center for Self-Reliance Food Pantries, which typically operate as choice food pantries, are now offering pre-bagged groceries available through curbside pickup.
“We’re doing our part to flatten the curve while upholding our commitment to our most vulnerable neighbors.” Higgins said.
“We recognize that the economic devastation of COVID-19 will long outlast the virus itself, and we know that lower-income workers will be hit the hardest,” added Jessye Deane, director of communications and development.
To prepare for the increase in need, Community Action has created a COVID-19 Emergency Fund, of which 100 percent will go directly to helping local individuals and families who need it most.
“We are extremely grateful to the anonymous donors who have offered to match donations up to $10,500,” Deane said, noting, “Right now, we’re all looking for the helpers, and we’re thankful to have 350 helpers working at Community Action Pioneer Valley.”
For more information, visit communityaction.us. To donate, send checks to Community Action, Attn: Jessye Deane, 393 Main St., Greenfield, MA 01301.