Community E-Newsletter May 2024 |
|
|
We couldn't do it without you |
|
|
As another tax season ends, Beverly Bootstraps continues to be supported by an exceptional team of volunteers who make our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (V.I.T.A.) program a resounding success. Their unwavering dedication plays a pivotal role in extending invaluable tax assistance to low-income families across the North Shore. The gratitude expressed by our clients highlights the importance of our efforts in ensuring financial stability and empowerment for individuals and families facing economic challenges.
|
| |
|
Jared*, a 21-year-old, who recently immigrated to Beverly from South America was filing his taxes for the first time and turned to Beverly Bootstraps for additional assistance. He arrived at the appointment and was paired with an experienced preparer who made sure to take the extra time to go through and explain each of the tax forms he had received for his rideshare driver job, and the importance of tracking his expenses to reduce the amount he owed. "I had no idea how to handle my self-employment income, and didn’t think this stressful process could go smoothly, especially on my first time,” Jared shared.
His preparer discussed various payment options, including setting up a payment plan with the IRS. They even went as far as explaining the need for quarterly estimated payments and provided guidance on how to calculate them. “As a full-time student, who's also working to make enough money to survive, every minute in my day counts. I’m so relieved I didn't have to spend countless hours trying to figure out my taxes. And as a bonus, I even got a crash course in tax education!"
With your support, we can continue to provide this essential program which assisted nearly 500 clients in filing almost $840,000 in tax returns this year. The commitment and expertise demonstrated by our staff and volunteers have not gone unnoticed. Their tireless efforts have enabled our clients to navigate the complexities of tax preparation efficiently and compassionately. As our numbers continue growing, our commitment to each client, like Jared, remains steadfast. Supported by grants, donors, and volunteers, our free tax program at Beverly Bootstraps continues to fulfill our mission of fostering self-sufficiency and economic independence within our community.
With your support, we can expand our reach and make an even greater impact. |
|
|
*Name changed and stock photo used for client privacy |
|
| Have You Secured Your Spot at Boots & Blues? When you purchase a ticket, you help Mike*, a new Food Pantry client who had to reach out for assistance at the beginning of this year. Your support isn't just about attending; it's about making a tangible difference in real lives. Please join us at Boots & Blues on Thursday, June 20 for a night filled with delicious treats, lively lawn games, and the infectious rhythms of live music by Los Sugar Kings. Plus, get ready for exciting online and live auctions featuring amazing items, all in support of our community!
|
| |
|
Whether you attend as a guest, sponsor, or donate auction items, your contribution directly impacts the lives of those in need across the North Shore. Claim your spot today as we come together to raise crucial funds to support individuals and families served by Beverly Bootstraps. |
|
|
| INTRODUCING: Thrift Perks Program! With every purchase, you're not only getting great finds, you're earning points towards fantastic discounts. It's simple: for every dollar spent, you earn one point. Once you've reached 50 points, you can start redeeming them for savings – $5 off your next purchase!
To sign up, simply inquire at the register during checkout, and our friendly staff will assist you in joining the Thrift Perks Club. This is our way of saying thank you for choosing us and making your loyalty truly rewarding. Start earning and saving, with the Thrift Perks Club! |
|
|
Let's Stamp Out Hunger this Weekend!
NALC's Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is happening this Saturday, May 11! Remember to leave non-perishable food donations next to your mailbox, and as your postal carriers hit their route, they will collect your bags of donations! All donations will be distributed to local food pantries, like Beverly Bootstraps.
View our top 10 most needed items here >> |
| |
|
| Build Snack Bags for Young Clients
We need Snack Bags! Join us and pack snack bags for our youngest Food Pantry clients. These bags provide healthy snacks to families with children. It's a simple way to give back with friends or earn community service hours. All ages are welcome to build bags! To get started, download our flyer >> |
|
|
Food Pantry Needs
In addition to our Top 10 list, we are in need of low sugar cereal, oatmeal, diapers (sizes 3+) and baby wipes.
You may shop online using our Amazon Link. Select the items you'd like to donate, and at check out, select Beth Bahret—Beverly Bootstraps as your shipping address. The items will ship directly to our pantry. Thank you for your continuous support!
|
| |
|
If you prefer to drop it off at Beverly Bootstraps or at one of our collection boxes, please make sure it is within its use-by date. You can drop donations off at our 35 Park Street office or place them in our collection boxes located at Stop & Shop (224 Elliott Street and 37 Enon Street), Shaw’s (71 Dodge Street), and the Council on Aging (90 Colon Street, Beverly). |
|
|
| Volunteer With Us!
Beverly Bootstraps relies on its team of amazing volunteers. We are currently seeking volunteers for Adult Education, Food Assistance, Mobile Market, and the Thrift Shop. We offer a flexible schedule and various positions to suit your availability. Short-term and one-time opportunities are also available.
Please e-mail [email protected] or call 978-927-1561 to speak with our Volunteer Coordinator if you are interested in volunteering!
|
|
|
Agency Impact Program Drives Change
The Andover Companies, through its Agency Impact Program, recently extended its generosity to Beverly Bootstraps, nominated by Bernard M. Sullivan Insurance Agency. As a result of this partnership, we received a donation that will be going towards the critical programs we provide. We extend our sincere gratitude to both companies for their support and generosity, which will significantly benefit the communities we serve!
|
| |
|
| #ProjectY Teen Day of Community Service
#ProjectY, organized by the YMCA of the North Shore, held its Teen Day of Community Service on Saturday, April 20. One of the impactful initiatives of the day was the collection of food donations at four Beverly grocery stores: Henry’s, Shaw's, and both Stop & Shop locations. These dedicated teens ended up donating 764 pounds of food to our Food Pantry! Thank you to all the teens who volunteered, and to everyone who donated. It's truly inspiring to see young people giving back to their community and setting great examples for others!
|
|
|
PGA TOUR Sparks A Grant
Because of the support and recommendation of the PGA Tour Superstore in Peabody, Beverly Bootstraps has been awarded a generous grant from the national chain. This grant will fuel our general operations and empower us to continue making a difference in our community. Thank you PGA Tour Superstore for your generous recommendation and to the national chain for believing in our mission.
|
| |
|
Downtown Mom Crawl Saturday, May 11, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Downtown Beverly
Treat your mom to a day of downtown fun at Beverly's annual Downtown Mom Crawl! Bounce around the participating downtown businesses and shop for mom while supporting local businesses. Stop by the Beverly Bootstraps Thrift Shop to find the perfect gift while giving back to the community. Strike a pose under our photo booth featuring a gorgeous balloon arch provided by Fig Balloon!
Touch A Truck Sunday, May 19, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Beverly High School, 100 Sohier Road The Annual Touch-A-Truck Event is a unique, interactive, one-day event held in Beverly during National Public Works Week. This event allows children to see, touch, and explore their favorite big trucks and vehicles and meet the personnel who protect, serve, and build the Beverly community.
Beverly Public Services and Beverly Bootstraps will co-host a food drive at the event. Please bring an item from our Top 10 List to donate! Aubuchon Round Up Campaign
Donate now and double your impact! When you round up your purchase all through May, Aubuchon Hardware at 50 Enon St, Beverly will match your donations up to $2,500! All proceeds will help Beverly Bootstraps provide vital resources to support those in need in our community.
Stop & Shop Community Bag Program
Join us this May at Stop & Shop on 224 Elliott Street in Beverly to make a difference for our community and the environment! For every $2.50 reusable Community Bag sold, $1 will be donated directly to Beverly Bootstraps’ critical programs and services. Together, let’s empower individuals and families to achieve their goals for self-sufficiency!
|
|
|
Upcoming Closings - Friday, May 10 (Staff Training): Agency and Thrift Shop Closed
- Monday, May 27 (Memorial Day): Agency and Thrift Shop Closed
|
|
|
|
