Schenectady Comes Together....Again

Our Friends,

Schenectady has once again proven that, like no other community in our region, we distinguish ourselves through our humanity, our unity, our giving and volunteering. Our openness to listen, change and find peace.  While we continue to navigate through the pandemic, we also embrace our nation and community as we confront social and racial injustice.  We welcome everyone.  We serve everyone.  We feel for the pain of our community, and believe that black lives matter. We also continue to keep people safe and healthy as the pandemic continues.

As we have moved from crisis response to recovery mode, we wanted to let you know what we've done to-date, and what we will do going forward.

Here's what our Schenectady County COVID Response Coalition accomplished:

We stabilized community members during pandemic, including those quarantined or isolated, the elderly, unemployed and under-served.  Sustained support over 14 week period.

• 29,000+ calls fielded by Call Center (average 415/day)
• 150 families assisted with rent, utilities and basic needs
• 10,000 “child care days” supported for essential workers at YMCA
• 16,500 home deliveries of food and supplies benefiting 25,000+ people
• $800,000+ lbs. of food distributed
• 60,000+ meals provided (City Mission, B&G Club, YWCA, Save Our Streets)

Our 4-pronged recovery plan launched in July will:

• Support for families, children and youth through grants that open up safe and healthy child care opportunities;
• Connect people to employment, and employers to those who are seeking jobs;
• Improve food security, especially for those who are unemployed or underemployed, quarantined, elderly or isolated;
• Provide financial relief for rent, utilities and other expenses, as well as to help families find the services they need.

If you need help, call our hotline, which is open weekdays from 9 am to 2 pm:  518-930-4703

If you are in a position to help financially, our Rebuilding Families Fund is matching your donations dollar for dollar, and distributing funds where they are needed most.

Our best wishes for good health and safety to you and your family,

Robert A. Carreau

executive director, The Schenectady Foundation