Efforts to aid Wareham’s homeless population have gotten a boost, as the Wareham Area Committee for the Homeless has received a $25,000 grant from the Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation as part of the foundation’s focus on covid-19 relief.

The grant will help fund Turning Point, which provides support to the homeless and nearly-homeless, including rental assistance, heat and utility bills, access to emergency funds and clothing, baby essentials including diapers, employment information and referrals to treatment centers.

“We are most grateful for the support that Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation has offered our organization over the years. Their continued support during these challenging times is not only needed but immensely valued,” said  Rick Duffy, a member of the committee’s board of directors. “We have seen a significant increase in requests for rental assistance and  these funds will go a long way to keeping people in their homes.”  

Turning Point works with several organizations to provide assistance to people living in Wareham, Buzzards Bay, Carver, Marion, Mattapoisett, Middleboro and Rochester.

“Housing, homelessness and food insecurity have long been challenges in our local communities that are being made worse by the double impact of the pandemic and approaching winter season,” said Nancy Huntington Stager, President and CEO of Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation. 

Those in need of services for themselves or someone they know can contact Turning Point by calling 508-291-0535. For more information, go to www.turningpointwareham.org.