PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Jewish Women's Foundation of the Berkshires announced grant awards totaling $38,700 for 12 local organizations. 

 

Recipients needed to demonstrate the ability to maintain their programming during the pandemic and/or respond to newly-identified needs. The grants range from $2,000 to $3,500 and run for one year.

 

Funded programs fall into three of JWF's priority areas:

 

Increasing access to food, housing, and other essentials for Berkshire residents Berkshire Baby Box, Berkshire Community Diaper Project, Berkshire Hills Regional School District Project Connection, Berkshire Grown, Construct, Roots Rising (Formerly The Alchemy Project)

 

Promoting self-sufficiency Berkshire Center for Justice, Berkshire Immigrant Center, Literacy Volunteers

 

Empowering Youth and Young Adults Gladys Allen Brigham Community Center/Girls Inc. of the Berkshires, Railroad Street Youth Project, Community Health Programs

 

In its 11th year, JWF, under the auspices of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, has granted more than $400,000 to community organizations. JWF is committed to the Jewish mandate of Tikkun Olam – helping to repair the world and making it a better place. JWF carries out its mission by providing funding, volunteers, mentoring, and support services to local agencies.  JWF has nearly 150 members who are passionate about giving back to the Berkshires community.