Norwood does an impressive job of supporting care their own. That’s how it always has been and always will be; through private organizations, citizen assistance, or municipal means. During this unprecedented time in history, the town has stepped up again requesting donations through the Town of Norwood’s Norwood Fund. Prior to this year, the available supply was separated into three categories, however a fourth has been added to satisfy the specific needs residents are facing today and in the future due to the COVID-19 crisis.
The original funds:
COA Senior Citizen Donation Fund- This existing fund assists seniors with any needs including food assistance and other costs or services needed by seniors.
Gift of Warmth Fund- Started by John Carroll many years ago this existing fund provides assistance for individuals with heat and other utility payments as well as similar wraparound services related to utilities including but not limited to small repairs associated with utility payments.
Veteran’s Assistance Fund- Veterans are particularly hard hit; this existing fund provides wraparound and additional services that are not available through the local Veterans assistance program or not available through the Department of Veterans Affairs/VA services.
The new fund added:
Norwood Food Security Fund- This is a new donation fund established by the Town specifically to provide temporary food assistance, primary to those not qualifying for or waiting for other sources of food relief and in need of quick short-term assistance. This will also be managed by the COA staff that in managing similar programs.
Assistance through these funds is available to any Norwood resident, however, the Town is focusing on seniors, veterans, and those in greatest need. Monetary disbursements can cover food or utility assistance, toiletries/hygiene items, or small repairs/ancillary items.
This fund is intended to complement not replace existing state or federal programs.
These are funds the Town has always operated but are experiencing a huge increase in demand. For more information or request assistance, residents should contact the Citizen Call Center at 781-352-2363.
To donate, visit, www.norwoodma.gov, click on Online Bill Payments, then Norwood COVID-19 Donation Fund, mail check or money order to 566 Washington St., ATTN: Norwood Fund (Makes checks payable to Norwood Fund), Norwood, MA 02062, or checks can be dropped off at Town Hall in any of our payment boxes.
Issue Date:
May, 2020
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