Vulnerable citizens at risk without public, private help

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR | RACETRACK’S ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY

October 14, 2011

AS A former journalism major and a longtime Globe reader, I have much respect and appreciation for the paper’s efforts to expose improprieties in powerful institutions such as the State House and the church. However, I was disheartened by the angle of your Oct. 4 front-page story, “Racetrack owner aids politicians’ charities,’’ and Oct. 9 editorial “Menino, Petruccelli should reject donations from racetrack owner,’’ and I fear ramifications for charities such as the East Boston family homeless shelter that I manage.

In economic times like these, cooperation and shared investment by public and private sector leaders are essential if nonprofits are to keep their doors open to support the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable citizens.

I see firsthand that state Senator Anthony Petruccelli demonstrates a rare commitment to his homeless and low-income constituents and gives voice to programs that lack resources.

At the same time, Suffolk Downs graciously responds to the call to be a responsible corporate neighbor and invest in our community. I hope that the implications in your paper will not dissuade Suffolk Downs from future support. The families I serve don’t want critical resources to be rejected or lost.

Audrey Savikas

Director

Crossroads Family Shelter

East Boston