Berkshire Taconic’s Northeast Dutchess Fund awarded $25,000 to nonprofit organizations that are developing new programs and expanding services for immigrants living in northeast Dutchess County.
These grants are part of NEDCorps 2.0, an expanded program of the Northeast Dutchess Fund that is focused on reducing poverty through targeted support for immigrants, low-income families and young adults transitioning from high school to work.
The immigrant community in northeast Dutchess has increased significantly in recent years. Data shows that Hispanic and Latino residents constitute 10% of the region's population—an increase of nearly 7% since 2000—and the number of English Language Learners in the four northeast Dutchess school districts has more than doubled. NEDCorps 2.0 is prioritizing opportunities for immigrants to navigate support systems, gain skills, meet basic needs and become active participants in their towns, villages and hamlets.
IMMIGRANT SUPPORT GRANTEES
Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County received $10,000 to fund a new mentoring program for children of immigrants and asylum seekers in Dover and throughout northeast Dutchess County. The weekly classes provides a safe space where children can receive support with social-emotional, academic and life skills development.
Gateway to Entrepreneurial Tomorrows received $5,000 to present a series of webinars on understanding the basics of financial planning in Spanish for immigrants in Millbrook, Amenia, Dover and surrounding towns. This training helps residents create paths for economic growth and self-sufficiency through topics such as home budgets, banking, debt, credit scores, entrepreneurship and planning for the future.
Legal Services of the Hudson Valley received $5,000 to offer free civil immigration services for low-income immigrant residents of northeast Dutchess County. These services will focus on supporting victims of domestic violence.
Worker Justice Center of New York received $5,000 to provide know-your-rights education to immigrant workers in northeast Dutchess County. This outreach will focus on educating immigrant workers about their rights in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuring access to legal assistance for workers whose rights are violated. The organization will host virtual and/or in-person workshops throughout the year.
For 20 years, the Northeast Dutchess Fund has awarded grants to nonprofits that improve the quality of life for residents of northeast Dutchess County. These organizations are facing unique challenges during this time of crisis and uncertainty. In response, the fund's committee is considering applications for unrestricted general operating support from these vital nonprofits. Applications are due April 15. Lean more about the fund’s COVID-19 response.