Community Newsletter
July, 2021
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How you've helped your neighbors in need on their road to self-sufficiency. |
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Celebrating Those That Rose Above the Odds
2020 was filled with uncertainty and fear. Like many other programs, Beverly Bootstraps pivoted its education program to offer online instruction in both English as a Second Language (ESL) and High School Equivalency Test (HiSET) preparation. For one group of students, the pandemic became a catalyst to change their lives. They enrolled or continued on in our Adult Education program to expand their skills, employment opportunities, and increase their wages.
On June 19, we celebrated the 29 students who received their HiSET diploma, four of whom are currently attending college or are registered to attend in September. Also recognized were our ESOL students who worked hard learning English during this time. All of these student's determination in the face of exceptional adversity was applauded. For many of these students, online instruction afforded the key to finishing these programs but without a doubt, one-on-one, personal connections with tutors and staff helped bring them past the finish line.
Ashley*, one student who just passed her final exam sent an email letting us know. She gratefully thanked those who helped her, saying, "I’ve passed the GED test finally! I wouldn’t have done it without you... thank you for pushing me to stay on track with your motivating text messages...thank you for having patience with me! Please tell everyone who has helped me in the past I said thank you! I’m grateful for all of you."
Beverly Bootstraps supported Ashley through her journey to becoming a high-school graduate thanks to donors like you who allow us to offer these programs. We look forward to seeing where her path takes her!
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Mobile Market Started for Summer
Our Mobile Market was suspended last summer due to the pandemic. This enhanced our excitement as we kicked off the 2021 season on July 1.
Our Mobile Markets are free, fresh farmer's markets that promote better health and nutrition by providing eligible households with fresh fruits and vegetables. Participants choose free, fresh produce delivered right to their neighborhood weekly through October 28.
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Volunteers Needed
We have many open volunteer opportunities. Volunteers are needed at:
- Food Pantry
- Mobile Market
- Thrift Shop
- Seasonal Programs.
All opportunities are on weekdays. Currently, opportunities are for adults aged 18 and over.
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Food Pantry Donations Needed
Our Food Pantry is currently in need of:
- Diapers - Size 2 and up
- Toiletry Items (Toothbrushes, Toothpaste, Shampoo, Conditioner, and Soap)
If you can donate any of the following items, we would greatly appreciate it!
Donations can be dropped off at our office, 35 Park Street, during regular operating hours of Mon & Thurs 10 am – 2 pm, Tues 2 – 6 pm and Wed 10 am – 6 pm or placed in our collection boxes at:
- Stop & Shop, 224 Elliott Street, Beverly
- Stop & Shop, 37 Enon Street, Beverly
- Shaw’s, 71 Dodge Street, Beverly
Thank you for your support!
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Dunkin' Joy in Childhood Grant Recipient
We are proud to announce that we have been recognized by the Dunkin' Joy In Childhood Foundation. We were awarded a $6,000 grant for all the work we are doing to combat food insecurity during these challenging and unprecedented times. We are grateful for this support as we continue working hard to bring joy to kids and families in our community.
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Graduation Flash Mob Suprise
A huge thank you to all the participants in Beverly Rotary Club's Scavenger Hunt who stopped by our graduation ceremony to congratulate our students! Under the direction of Peter Stewart, participants sang, danced, and most importantly let our graduates know how proud we are of them. Photo courtesy of Thom Adorney.
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Doe Family Foundation Grant
We are so thankful for the continued support of the Doe Family Foundation. We were recently awarded a very generous grant to help support our Food Assistance Programs.
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Back-to-School Backpack Program
Community Collection Nights
Help local kids in need be prepared for the start of school by participating in our Back-to-School Supply Drive.
Purchase supplies off of this list: www.bit.ly/Supplies_2021 and drop off donations at any of our three Community Collection Nights:
Tuesday, July 13 from 5 pm – 7 pm
Manchester Community Center, 40 Beach Street, Manchester
Wednesday, July 14 from 5 pm – 7 pm
Winthrop School, 325 Bay Road, Hamilton
Thursday, July 15 from 5 pm – 7 pm
Beverly Bootstraps, 35 Park Street, Beverly
What's Under the Tent Event
Thursday, August 5, 9:30 am – 5 pm
Beverly Bootstraps Thrift Shop, 198 Rantoul Street, Beverly
Beverly Bootstraps Thrift Shop is holding a special Homecoming shopping event. Enjoy shopping for men's and women's accessories, including jewelry, bags, scarves, and other unique items. Stop by and celebrate Homecoming with Beverly Bootstraps where all profits are invested back into the community.
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To learn more, click on these handy links: |
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Beverly Bootstraps has always been committed to social justice. Helping people who might not have their basic needs met or an opportunity to avail themselves of education, for whatever reason or life story, is at the core of our mission.
We proudly serve, work with and employ individuals regardless of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, or nationality. Further, we ask our community and world to do better and work towards justice and equal opportunities.
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