From shelter to the 2030 Census

Welcome to Shelter Sunday Amherst, a community-driven day of fundraising dedicated to helping our neighbors in need. We believe in the power of unity and compassion, and we're on a mission to support those facing homelessness and hunger in our community.

2023 marks our 34th annual year of raising vital funds for those experiencing housing and food insecurity in Amherst. Craig’s Doors and Not Bread Alone, the beneficiaries of Shelter Sunday Amherst 2023, provide shelter and housing-focused case management for those who are homeless, and warm, nourishing meals for those who are hungry. INFO

Got a minute? Why not join COSA today? Click here.

Check out last week's favorite click.

Community Action Pioneer Valley needs a

Healthy Families Manager

Join the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts along with the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center and the Massachusetts Voter Table, who will share lessons learned from the 2020 census and what we need to do to prepare for 2030.

We will highlight the direct impact this data has on critical programs for those in need in our community and what actions steps we can collectively take to make sure all residents are counted and that we receive the resources our communities need to thrive. INFO

CHAPA Annual Regional Meeting

October 5

Are you an advocate, neighbor, municipality, organization, or legislator working on affordable housing in your community? Join us virtually for CHAPA's Annual Regional Housing Meeting where we'll bring together groups and participants from across the Commonwealth. Register today!

Big Brothers Big Sisters

3 Ring Ruckus on October 14

The Second Annual 3-Ring Ruckus on Saturday, October 14 features a Craft Fair, First Responders Olympics, and dazzling family entertainment—it’s a real Ruckus! Enjoy craft vendors, and games, Pioneer Valley Jump Rope Team, live music, food trucks, family-friendly activities, and more! INFO

Healthy Hampshire and CISA are collaborating on an "Essential Skills for Starting, Growing, & Managing a Food Business Training Series." The sessions in this series are designed to support people who are new or inexperienced at working with food businesses and food access programs to develop knowledge and skills that will help them advance in their careers and achieve their personal goals. Stipends are available for people who self identify as BIPOC or low-income, Check the flyers for full details. First session is Wednesday, October 18! Flyer-english Flyer-spanish

Update: Healey-Driscoll administration awards $773K to support BHN's childhood mental health program via Greenfield Recorder

Lace up your running shoes for the Cooley Dickinson Happy Valley Half Marathon & 5K on October 15 at beautiful Look Park. REGISTER

Whole Woman, Whole Leaders, Whole Systems, Whole World is a global women's conference happening Oct 20-Oct 21 at Holyoke Community College. Through a global lens, they will consider the Whole Woman and her impact on leadership, the systems that we work and live in, and her impact on the world. Focus areas include Gender as a Social Determinant of Women's Health and Well-being and the Economic Security of Women. INFO & REGISTRATION

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities is hosting a series of events in October to coincide with National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Learn more about opening doors for employment, the workforce crisis/ impact on persons with disabilities and more topics. INFO and REGISTRATION