As the cost of living continues to rise, many seniors and disabled residents living on fixed incomes are being squeezed financially. To prevent these vulnerable community members from risking the loss of their homes, the Elderly and Disabled Tax Fund Committee is asking residents to step up and make a difference.

Studies have shown that senior citizens comprise the majority of the newly unhoused sector of the population. It is difficult to grasp the despair of someone in their 70s or 80s having to do without a warm place to sleep, a kitchen to prepare their food, or access to water for bathing and doing laundry.

The Elderly and Disabled Tax Fund was established by the Greenfield City Council in order to keep our neighbors at risk safe in their homes. The program receives no tax dollars, it is dependent solely on donations from both individuals and local businesses.

Eligible households may receive a maximum of $2,000 in assistance which is directly applied to their back taxes. Applications for 2027 relief will be available in September through the Assessor’s Office and online.

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 5 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.

Applications will be accepted annually from Sept. 1 to Dec. 1. The committee reviews applications in January, with notifications sent out in March. Funds are applied to the fourth quarter tax bill.

Residents can donate in the following ways:

  • Via Municipal Bills: Look for the option to add a voluntary donation when paying property tax, personal property tax, or water/sewer bills.
  • Donate by check: Payable to City of Greenfield, memo: “Elderly and Disabled Tax Fund.” Mail to/ drop off at Greenfield City Hall, 14 Court Square, Greenfield, MA 01301.
  • Your donation is tax deductible.

To ensure fairness, the fund is managed by a committee charged with establishing rules and reviewing applications. The committee presently includes the city treasurer, the chair of the Board of Assessors, and two City Council members.

We are urging the good people of Greenfield to support this very important program.

Patricia Williams is Greenfield’s Precinct 6 city councilor.