First a center for colonists fighting the British in the Revolutionary War, and later a thriving manufacturing hub, the city of Worcester has been an important and symbolic site of America’s heritage for over 200 years. Like many New England cities, Worcester’s economy collapsed after the decline of U.S. manufacturing between 1950 and 1980, and although healthcare and biotechnology companies were brought in to expand the job base, poverty is still widespread.  According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Fact Finder, 2013, in Worcester:

• 27.2% of families with children live below the poverty line.
• 31% of all children under age 18 live below the poverty level.
• 22.6% of families have an annual income of less than $25,000

Family-to-Family’s partner in Worcester is the South Worcester Neighborhood Center.  SWNC was established in 1969 as part of President Johnson’s “War on Poverty,” and the organization houses a food pantry and after-school program as well as helps area residents with issues relating to food stamps, housing, employment and health services. SWNC’s Executive Director, Ronald Charette and his staff identify and recommend families in need to our sponsorship program.

Family-to-Family purchases monthly groceries for Worcester sponsored families from the Worcester County Food Bank.

Community Partner:
Ron Charette
South Worcester Neighborhood Improvement Corp.
47 Camp Street
Worcester, MA 01603

Read more about Ron Charette and Worcester’s hunger problem below.

1. ‘The invisible man makes forgotten neighborhood of South Worcester a better place to live”
2. “Hunger pains: Winter adds challenges to feeding those in need in Central Mass”

Yes, I’d like to sponsor a family!