One of the most interesting things I get to work on at BCF is the grants process.  I am fortunate to be able to learn about all of the many programs, groups, and organizations that are working to improve our community.  It is inspiring to see how many dedicated people there are in Brookline who want to help improve the lives of those living, working, and learning in our Town. 

Our community truly has a huge amount of talent and brain power.  It always surprises me however, how many people there are living in Brookline who are not really aware of the needs in our community.  Surely they know there is a big economic divide, but the particulars are fuzzy. 

For instance, not many people are aware that 9.3% of Brookline’s population lives below the poverty level.  (This is the same percentage for Massachusetts, statewide, and the federal poverty level in 2008 for a family of four is $21,200)

Or, that 6.1% of residents have an income below 50% of the poverty level, compared to 4.1% for the state.  Some people I have spoken with are not aware that there is a housing authority in Brookline, providing 1,100 units of subsidized or free housing.

Many of the grants we give are to the underserved populations in our community.  In a town as culturally and economically diverse as ours,  it is critical that we draw the community together by working to close the opportunity and achievement gap in order to preserve the unique qualities that make Brookline what it is.

If you are invloved with non profits workng to address the needs of the vulnerabel and underserved outside our community, we want to hear from you.  What are you working on? What is your perception of Brookline in terms of the issues you address in your work?  Is there a segment of the local population that could beneft?  Check out our website, take a look at our grant guidelines.   We are always interested in hearing about new ideas, projects, programs, and inititives.  www.brooklinecommunity.org.