Story
Even during these challenging times, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for those of you who have contacted us to ask how you can help our children and families who have been disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
Prior to the virus, children and families like the Healys' in our statewide, family preservation programs were not only succeeding, but thriving. We were maintaining a 96% success rate of keeping families together as we fulfilled our mission of
Strengthening children and families so they can live safely, independently, and productively within their home communities.
Then, in March of 2020 things took a turn for the worse for Marco and his family. The pandemic, disrupting what little stability they had, sent them spiraling into a state of crisis and uncertainty. Marco struggled with unemployment, making it difficult to care for their five children. With many other Berkshire families, we witnessed spikes in substance abuse, lapses in mental health support, and overwhelming stress. Marco and his family, like so many others, were faced with school closings and limited financial resources to cover the costs of home education as well as increased food and PPE needs that they could not manage on their own.
With the support of our family specialists, community partners and passionate members of our board of directors, we were able to help the Healy family persevere through these challenging times by providing cleaning supplies, Wi-Fi for connectivity to virtual learning and service provisions, and other resources right in their own home. For other families, we were able to cover rent and utilities, food for those who were hungry and going without, as well as educational resources for children in disadvantaged communities who were disconnected from their education. We strive to support and provide desperately needed resources to as many children and families as possible every day. Unfortunately, for many of these families the need continues to grow as our resources are spread thin and the cost of care continues to rise.
When the pandemic hit and I lost my job, I thought my family and I were going to lose everything. The assistance that Berkshire was able to provide us was such a relief. Our family specialist made sure our kids had everything they needed to keep up with school, that we had cleaning supplies to stay safe and even helped me to find a job. Berkshire saved my family. -Marco Healy
This is where you can help
Please consider joining our mission by starting your own fundraiser As we navigate through these uncertain times, we are seeing families struggle to maintain their basic needs, making supporters like you even more critical for families like the Healys.
By creating and sharing your fundraiser, you allow us to continue our mission and support children and families, including those who remain disproportionately impacted by this pandemic.
On behalf of our children and families, we thank you in advance for your generous support.