Making Ends Meet

It does happen here in Marblehead. Individuals and families are affected by unexpected financial or medical catastrophes. Fortunately, Marbleheaders have a long history of reaching out to those in need, providing comfort and assistance in times of trouble.

The foundation does not provide loans or long-term subsidies. Support is given to individuals and families in the form of outright financial grants. A grant may cover a doctor's bill, a mortgage or rent payment, a utility bill or another critical expense that may arise during difficult financial times. Our goal is to enable each recipient to recover from the effects of an unexpected financial crisis.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been provided to Marbleheaders since the foundation was formed. Assistance is awarded based on a confidential financial screening.

Specific criteria is established to determine eligibility. Even when financial grants are not appropriate, every effort is made to provide some form of assistance, including direct food aid, referral to another helping agency, financial counseling or credit counseling.

Each year our organization allocates thousands of dollars to neighbors who are unable to receive assistance through other social service channels. We are dependent on grass roots fundraisers, grants and other gifts to underwrite our giving. Donations from community members like you are critical to the ongoing success of our efforts.

• President