Funds will promote independence and enhance quality of life for elderly, low-income women in the Greater New Bedford community through financial support of qualified individuals and programs.

Association for the Relief of Aged Women of New Bedford offers $300,000 to community organizations

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The Association for the Relief of Aged Women (ARAW) announced that, through its Community Partner Grant, it will contribute up to $300,000 in support of community organizations and programs which best support the ARAW’s mission and vision that elderly women will live well and with dignity. The ARAW welcomes new initiatives and meaningful ways already in existence to address the needs and challenges faced by aging women today.

The ARAW’s Community Partner Grant offers nonprofits and public entities in Acushnet, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, New Bedford and Westport funding to continue, maintain or expand their programs through support of activities which align with the ARAW’s prioritized funding areas and targeted population. Potential use of this grant funding includes support of staff salaries, program supplies and materials and other direct costs deemed reasonable for the success of the program/project. A total of up to $300,000 will be offered and grant awards will range from $1,000 – $50,000.

“For over 150 years the ARAW has quietly furnished financial assistance, provided friendship and promoted the welfare and relief of elderly women in the Greater New Bedford community. As we honor these past accomplishments, we feel now is the time to build upon that strong foundation. Although our mission has been steadfast, the world around us is forever changing and how we fulfill our mission must reflect that,” said ARAW’s Executive Director, Clare Healy Foley. “It is becoming more and more critical for organizations to combine efforts. The ARAW is excited to form new partnerships which will enable us to identify and, in turn, support those low income, elderly women who may feel they have nowhere else to turn. ARAW’s Community Partner Grant is a wonderful opportunity for the ARAW to expand our direct financial support of aging women in our community and to fund innovative programs which address the challenges they face today.”

The ARAW has identified four key target areas in which it will invest. First and foremost, it is looking to grow the number of trusted sources in the community who will identify and connect the ARAW to qualified women in need. Community collaboration will help to promote the direct financial support the ARAW provides. Ultimately, the ARAW looks to increase the amount of support and the number of women it assists.

The other three targeted funding areas promote Financial Stability/Life Strategies, Social Engagement and Safety/Stability for low-income, elderly women in the Greater New Bedford community. Through a focus on these key areas, the ARAW hopes to offer outreach and programs which will allow women to maintain their dignity and independence in the community.

Proposals must directly align with these priority areas as they relate to the population the ARAW looks to support. Successful proposals will demonstrate, not only the necessary expertise but also, the ability to track activities and a commitment to measurable outcomes through regular reports.

The deadline for submission of grant proposals is November 13, 2020 at 5:00 pm EST. Information sessions (via Zoom) to learn more about the ARAW and this funding opportunity will be offered in August and September. You must register in advance.

The full Request for Proposal is available at www.arawofnb.org/about/grants.

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About the Association for the Relief of Aged Women

The Association for the Relief of Aged Women (ARAW) was founded in 1866. The Association’s first president, Rachel Howland, was a prominent New Bedford Quaker preacher, activist and philanthropist. For over 150 years, the ARAW’s mission has been to furnish assistance, provide friendship and promote the welfare and relief of elderly women. Led by a volunteer board and small staff, the ARAW financially supports the individual needs of over 200 women while being guided by the founding principles of “women helping women” and “not alms alone, but a friend”.

For more information, please visit www.arawofnb.org

About Michael Silvia

Served 20 years in the United States Air Force. Owner of New Bedford Guide.

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