More needing help this winter

This winter, the Brookline Community Foundation is focusing on the increasing number of residents facing a shortfall in funds for food, heat, rent, and other essentials. The foundation, working with Brookline Community Mental Health and local donors, created the Brookline Safety Net in 1989 in an effort to meet critical needs. This year the need is particularly acute, according to Sue Ross, the foundation’s director of programs. More people, some of whom have never before needed help, are seeking aid from the Safety Net, she said. The foundation has already awarded $50,000 in grants to the Safety Net and the Jewish Family & Children’s Services Family Table program to help local citizens this winter. Information on donating or volunteering is available at www.massneeds.org. - Andreae Downs