basic needs

No one should be forced to choose one basic need over another. In addition to providing for food, clothing and shelter, we invest in solutions that give people more than a hope of just getting by, but of getting ahead.

Our research revealed that housing, employment and basic needs are key community priorities in which UWMB can play a meaningful role.

According to the research, families with children are the fastest growing segment of the homeless population. In 2005, the number of families living in Boston shelters increased by 24%.³ There are approximately 6,200 homeless adults in Boston and 22,000 homeless individuals in Massachusetts.⁴ And research shows that homeless children suffer disproportionately from sickness, hunger, and fear.⁵ If such fundamental human needs as food and shelter are not being met, individuals and families have no chance of reaching their full potential. Beyond funding programs to help individuals meet their basic needs, we advocate for public policy changes and invest in solutions that work to remove the barriers so that families can have a hope of not only getting by, but of getting ahead.

The Special Fund

The Special Fund for Emergency Financial Assistance helps those in times of greatest need, preventing homelessness, loss of heat and light, utilities, and other hardships. Administered through local agencies, the Special Fund ensures that low income families throughout the Greater Boston area will have access to emergency financial assistance when they need it most.

• Special Fund Fact Sheet
• Excerpts from the Special Fund Annual Report, 2004-2005 (full report available upon request).
• Special Fund Pledge Card

For more information about the Special Fund, please contact Paola Ferrer, pferrer@uwmb.org