An Update From State Representative Paul Schmid
With the Herd
Freetown Council on Aging Dial In Food Pantry

While there is a stay-at-home order, the Freetown Council on Aging is here to help.

Barbara, the Council Director, has told our office that while she is available, any families or individuals who are in desperate need of food aide during these times should contact the Freetown Council on Aging for assistance.

Pictured is a staple bag from her food pantry program but there are more items available from time to time so please call and inquire if you have questions.

The Freetown Council on Aging can be reached at 508-763-9557
Westport Veteran Specific Food Pantry

In addition to the normal food pantry, Carol Freitas, Veterans Service Officer for Westport, in conjunction with the Massachusetts Military Support Foundation, will be holding a veterans specific food pantry on May 2nd, from 10am to Noon.

To be eligible for this food pantry service please provide DD-214 or VA Health Card and a Valid Photo ID

Pre Registration is required and can be done at www.facebook.com/Westport VSO
Westport Food Pantry

Westport is holding a Food Pantry on Mondays at the Town Hall Annex Gym from 9 am to 12 pm , during the COVID-19 crisis and while supplies last.
The next food pantry will be held on May 4th
Must show proof of that you are a Westport resident.
This is a drive-thru food pantry with no face-to-face contact.

The Westport Food Pantry is also looking for donations as well. Gift cards to Staples, Lee's Market, other businesses or monetary donations are graciously accepted.

Donations can be sent to
Town of Westport
Recreation Department
856 Main Road
Westport MA 02790
Greater Fall River Food Pantry and Food Access Locations

United Way of Greater Fall River is working with agency partners to keep an updated chart of open and active food pantries and soup kitchens on our website ( https://uwgfr.org/covid-19-information/ ). 

The page does get updated at least once a week, as the pantries send us updated dates, times, and operating procedures. Our community is doing an amazing job of coming together to support our most in-need neighbors.
Domestic Violence Hotline

A s you know, Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito has worked extensively  to  prioritiz e   resources  supporting victims of domestic violence and sexual assault ,  as well as preventative programs.

We were able to discuss our efforts with the Lt. Governor and  as of today,  the Governor's office will promote DV/SA referral hotlines regularly in briefings and public remarks as well as with additional social media posts on the COVID-19 website.

If you need help with domestic violence please follow the links on the Mass.Gov
Governor Baker Extends Order in Response to COVID-19

In response to the continuing issues COVID-19 has brought into our community, the Governor has extended the stay-at-home order until MAY 18th.

I know that this is a continuing hardship for many so I ask each member of our community to make sure the most vulnerable in our community are being taken care of. Check on neighbors, call family and friends, and make sure everyone is ok!
Southcoast Emergency Fund

The  SouthCoast Emergency Response Fund  focuses on the needs of those in our community most severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and supports nonprofits on the frontlines of this response.

The fund is announcing that $325,000 in unrestricted operating grants is going to nonprofits throughout the SouthCoast region.

This second round of grants from the Fund was made possible, in part, through the Community Foundation’s partnership with the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund. 

The Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund supports those across the state most impacted by the COVID-19 health crisis, focusing on essential frontline workers and vulnerable populations including the homeless, immigrant populations, people with disabilities and those facing food security.

The Fund works in concert with regional community foundations and non-profit leaders who partner with local leaders to understand the response and relief landscape, strategically filling in where gaps are pronounced. For more information, visit MACovid19ReliefFund.org
While my team and I will likely be working remotely, we are always available via phone or email . 

     Please do not hesitate to reach out to my office, either at the State House (617)722-2017, or my District Office at (508) 567-5675, or by  email at  Paul.Schmid@mahouse.gov .  

Sincerely,

Paul Schmid
State Representative, 8th Bristol
Westport, Freetown, Fall River, New Bedford