Since school buildings have been closed, Catie’s Closet has shifted our service delivery to support the immediate toiletry needs of students and their families. Items such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and toothbrushes are critical to maintaining personal hygiene and protecting families from COVID-19. This has been done throughout many of the school systems we serve, including Boston Public Schools.To date, we have delivered over 222,244 urgently needed toiletries throughout BPS emergency meal sites. We have also delivered items to families who are unable to leave their homes during this time, removing access barriers to critical needs. This widespread impact would not be possible without the City of Boston Boston Resiliency Fund and the generous staff and volunteers of BPS schools. 

The Boston Resiliency Fund is the City of Boston’s effort to help coordinate fundraising and philanthropic efforts to provide essential services to Boston residents whose health and well-being are most immediately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. This 30.8-million-dollar fund is supporting local nonprofits who care and provide for the capital’s communities and making significant strides in helping those most in need find hope and relief during this unpredictable time.

For Catie’s Closet, the Boston Resiliency Fund has been monumental in expanding and transitioning our services to our current model and allowing us to continue forward.  It’s made a difference, according to one of our school staff members: 

“As my work is primarily outreach with parents and families, Caties’ Closet is an invaluable support in the outreach process! Helping a student in Catie’s Closet is often the best part of my and the student’s day, and this definitely impacts our relationship — they never forget the excitement of picking out new clothes, shoes and gear, and they’re usually so happy to show me their new outfits when they wear them to school in the following weeks and months.”

We are so grateful to this city and their love for their own community’s children and families, and for coordinating so many partnerships throughout the city to ensure our families are well served.

A true definition of a Capital that Cares!