Community E-Newsletter September 2024 |
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We couldn't do it without you |
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As the new school year approached, Stephanie*, a mother of four, was in a tough spot. Recent cuts to her families SNAP benefits, her paycheck not stretching as far as it used to and the higher cost of back-to-school supplies left her having a hard time affording to put food on the table.
“Since 2019, the price of everything seems to have gone up, and I was barely getting by prior to that,” Stephanie expressed. According to the National Retail Federation, the average family is now expected to spend around $142 to cover basic school supplies. This total does not take into consideration the cost of clothing, shoes and electronics.
With our Back-to-School Backpack Program, we give families like Stephanie’s the chance to redirect those desperately needed funds toward groceries, utility bills, and other basics that keep a household running. “Buying school supplies almost feels like taking out a second mortgage, and this program makes the difference between just getting by and actually moving forward."
At Beverly Bootstraps, Stephanie’s family found the support they needed, and it wasn’t just from us—it was from you. With the unwavering support of our community, we distributed 903 backpacks, ensuring that all those students started their school year with confidence, instead of anxiety. “I cannot thank you enough for all the help you have given us. Beverly Bootstraps has helped me all throughout the year!" Stephanie remarked.
Individuals, groups, and businesses across the community rallied together to help fundraise, collect donations and volunteer. From a girl hosting a Backpack Drive at her Bat Mitzvah to preschool families collecting supplies and local businesses acting as collection sites, your creativity and support make this program possible. Together, Beverly Bootstraps isn’t just about providing supplies—it’s about giving peace of mind to those who need it most. |
| *Name changed for client privacy |
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Annual Momball Softball Tournament
Mark your calendars for September 20–22 at Harry Ball Field, where Beverly's incredible moms will once again take the field for Momball Weekend! We're excited to watch them compete in this exciting softball tournament and to see the community come out to cheer on their favorite teams.
While the funds help the Beverly Public School PTOs, Momball is also showing their support for Beverly Bootstraps by hosting their annual Food Drive at the games. We hope you will consider bringing a donation—if you’re unsure what to contribute, click here to see what items your favorite team has been assigned to collect.
We can’t wait to see which team collects the most donations and, of course, who takes home the championship title. Go Momball! |
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Winter Wishes Holiday Gifts The summer warmth is still in the air but we are already preparing for the holidays! Many families in our community are not able to purchase presents for their children. Through Beverly Bootstraps Winter Wishes Holiday Gifts, donors help these children receive new clothes, games, and toys.
Clients are now registering for our Winter Wishes Holiday Gifts program. If you are looking for a group activity to do or if you are interested in becoming a donor, CLICK HERE >> |
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September is Hunger Action Month On an empty stomach, it can be tough to focus on school, give your best at work, or even care for your family. When you're hungry, it's not just food you lack—it's the ability to thrive in every area of life. This Hunger Action Month let’s come together to ensure no one must face these impossible choices.
In the past year alone, you helped our Food Pantry respond to an urgent need—seeing nearly 6,000 additional visits and distributing over 160,000 more pounds of food. |
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More neighbors are relying on Beverly Bootstraps than ever before. No one should ever have to choose between feeding their family and securing their future. Will you step in and make a difference for a family in need today? |
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| Fixin’s for the Feast Would you like to help provide families with all the Fixin’s for their Thanksgiving Feast, including a gift card to purchase their turkey (or other protein and needs)?
SIGN UP HERE to receive an email when the program kicks off in October! |
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Volunteers Needed
We are in need of volunteers! Beverly Bootstraps offers a flexible schedule and various positions to suit your availability. Short-term and one-time opportunities, and community service hours are also available.
View our available volunteering opportunities by CLICKING HERE. For other questions, email [email protected] or call 978-927-1561.
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| Snack Bag Heroes
Thank you to our amazing community for responding to our call for Snack Bags in August! We are so grateful to everyone who donated, built, and dropped off Snack Bags for our Food Pantry.
Many families on tight budgets have a hard time keeping enough food in the house, so they always look forward to receiving these bags filled with yummy and nourishing snacks. Thank you to everyone who stepped up when we needed your support! |
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Pepperidge Farm Brings the Bread
We want to give a huge shoutout to John Adams and Pepperidge Farm! Twice a week, they generously drop off overstock bread donations to our Food Pantry. Bread is such a staple in many households, and these donations make a huge difference to our clients.
We're incredibly grateful for their ongoing support and the impact they're making in our community. Thank you, John, for taking the time to deliver to us every week. We couldn’t meet the demands of our Food Pantry without the support of you and Pepperidge Farm! |
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Momball Food Drive
September 20 - 22, 2024
Harry Ball Field Parking Lot, 410 Essex Street, Beverly
The 24th annual Momball tournament is happening on September 20-22! Momball collects non-perishable donations for the Beverly Bootstraps Food Pantry. This is one of our largest and essential food drives. When you cheer for your favorite team, support the community by bringing donations on Momball weekend. Learn more at momball.com
Tackle Hunger Football Game Friday, September 20, 6:30 PM MERHS Hyland Field, 36 Lincoln Street, Manchester-by-the-Sea Let’s fill the stands and the Beverly Bootstraps Food Pantry at the MERHS vs Rockland football game happening on Friday, September 20 at 6:30 pm. When you bring a cereal, peanut butter, or pasta donation you will receive a discounted admission. Good luck to all the players and see you all there!
Texas Roadhouse Fundraiser Wednesday, September 25, 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM Texas Roadhouse, 301 Newbury Street, Danvers
Enjoy a delicious meal at Texas Roadhouse in Danvers on September 25th and support Beverly Bootstraps! Whether you dine in or take it to go, 10% of all sales that day will go directly to helping our programs. Plus, Texas Roadhouse will be collecting food donations throughout that week . It's the perfect time to bring a donation and give back to the community. Treat yourself to a great meal while making a difference! Stop & Shop Community Bag Program Entire month of September Stop & Shop, 224 Elliot Street, Beverly
Support the community and the environment! Shop at the Stop & Shop located at 224 Elliott Street, Beverly and purchase the $2.50 Community Bag. Beverly Bootstraps will receive a $1 donation for every bag sold this September! |
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