About Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts
Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts: Supporting the Pioneer Valley through COVID-19 Response Fund
The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts (CFWM) is a non-profit organization that has been serving the Pioneer Valley for over 25 years. The foundation's mission is to improve the quality of life for people in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties by connecting donors with causes they care about and providing grants to local non-profits.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, CFWM created the COVID-19 Response Fund for the Pioneer Valley. This fund was established to provide immediate support to those most vulnerable to economic and health-related issues caused by the pandemic. The fund has already raised over $6 million from individuals, businesses, and foundations in western Massachusetts.
The COVID-19 Response Fund provides grants to local organizations that are working on the front lines of this crisis. These organizations include food banks, homeless shelters, healthcare providers, and other essential service providers who are struggling due to increased demand or decreased funding.
CFWM's response fund is unique because it focuses on both short-term relief efforts as well as long-term recovery efforts. In addition to providing immediate support during this crisis, CFWM is also working with community partners on long-term solutions that will help our region recover from this pandemic.
One example of a long-term solution supported by CFWM is their partnership with Springfield Technical Community College (STCC). Together they have launched a program called "Rebuild Western Mass" which provides free job training programs for people who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19. This program helps individuals gain new skills so they can re-enter the workforce once our economy recovers.
Another example of a long-term solution supported by CFWM is their partnership with Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation (BTCF) on an initiative called "Berkshire Taconic Rapid Response Fund". This initiative provides emergency funding for non-profits in Berkshire County who are struggling due to decreased revenue or increased demand during this crisis.
CFWM's work goes beyond just responding directly to COVID-19 related issues; they also focus on addressing systemic issues that contribute towards inequality in our region. For example, one area where CFWM has made significant progress is education equity - ensuring all students have access equal opportunities regardless of race or socioeconomic status.
In conclusion, The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts plays an important role in supporting our region through these challenging times. Their COVID-19 Response Fund has provided critical support when it was needed most while also investing in long-term solutions that will help us recover from this pandemic stronger than ever before. If you're looking for ways you can make a difference during these difficult times consider donating your time or money towards one of CFMW's many initiatives!