Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation

Madeleine B. Wildes Fund Applications Due December 31

December 5, 2011

SHEFFIELD, MA—The Wildes Fund, a fund of Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, is accepting grant applications through December 31 from community groups and nonprofit organizations that help residents of Lakeville and Salisbury remain in their homes safely and comfortably. Grants may be requested for projects including, but not limited to, any aspect of affordable housing, home repair, chore assistance, in-home medical care, temporary shelter, financial counseling or advocacy.

A committee of community members reviews applications and awards grants ranging from $500 to $1500 based on excellence of the project, impact on the community and ability of the applicant to carry out the project. Collaborative efforts are particularly encouraged. Applications are available online or by calling 413.229.0370.

The Wildes Fund’s mission is to help residents of Lakeville and Salisbury, CT who, through sickness, misfortune or lack of opportunity, and despite their own best efforts, need financial assistance. It was established in honor of Madeleine B. Wildes who lived in Lakeville from 1917 until her death in 1962. When Ms. Wildes died, the Lakeville Journal described her as “warm, generous and kind. She had a rich talent for friendship, a genuine interest in people, and a staunch, unswerving loyalty to those she loved.”

Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation builds stronger communities and improves the quality of life for all residents of northwest Litchfield County, CT; Berkshire County, MA; and Columbia County and northeast Dutchess County, NY, acting as an agent for positive change in the region. Since 1987, Berkshire Taconic has managed a growing collection of charitable funds created by individuals, families and businesses. Each year, the foundation distributes over $7 million through grants and scholarships for programs in the arts and education, health and human services and environmental protection, helping thousands of donors achieve their philanthropic goals and hundreds of nonprofits carry on their good work. Berkshire Taconic is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity.

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