The Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), this community’s anti-poverty agency, received a $10,000 targeted grant from the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation for CAAS’ work to prevent homelessness.

“CAAS is very proud that the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation has recognized and supported our homelessness prevention efforts,” said CAAS Executive Director Kimberly Smith-Cofield.  “CAAS stands up in court with people facing eviction and keeps them in their homes.  We combine court advocacy with assistance getting benefits and one-on-one counseling about finances to make sure that families can stay in their homes.  CAAS pioneered this approach, and we are pleased that Eastern Bank has invested in its success.”

CAAS Executive Director Kimberly Smith-Cofield and Director of Advocacy & Community Services Melissa McWhinney accepted the award at Eastern Bank’s annual Wainwright Social Justice Award reception on Wednesday, November 9.  Eastern Bank acquired Wainwright Bank in 2011, including the Somerville branch office in Davis Square.

The mission of the Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS) is to reduce poverty among local families and individuals while working to counteract, and whenever possible eliminate, the societal conditions that cause and perpetuate poverty.  For more information, see http://www.caasomerville.org/, or find us on Facebook.