Since the nonprofit Pennies for Poverty: 2 Cents 4 Change began three years ago, it has distributed $30,000 in grants.
Those grants go to individuals and organizations who have an idea for an initiative or program that works to lift people out of poverty, said the nonprofit's president, Eleanor Turke.
The volunteer group began with a purpose to fundraise, promote volunteerism and make donations to food pantries and soup kitchens, and to raise awareness about poverty in the city.
Its mission is to increase awareness of and fight poverty in Newburyport, Turke said.
Applicants can seek grants twice a year, Turke said, and the group typically receives about a half-dozen requests each year. Among the most recent grants they issued was to the Newburyport Learning Center to help fund an after-school reading program for kids at risk.
"We look for things that are innovative," Turke said.
The applications are awarded based on a set of criteria, she said. Grants can also be awarded on an emergency basis, such as when the Salvation Army sought funds to purchase toiletries.
To help them accomplish their mission, the group has distributed collection cans at various businesses around the city and will hold fundraisers.
Last summer, Star 240, a motorcycle riding club, gathered at Haley's Ice Cream in Newburyport each Wednesday to raise money for the organization, offering music, entertainment and photo opportunities. For the last two years, downtown merchants have raised donations for Pennies for Poverty during their "Witches Night Out" Halloween event.
On Tuesday, the nonprofit will host a wine tasting dinner at Oregano Pizzeria and Ristorante, as part of a fundraising program offered by the Pleasant Street restaurant.
By purchasing a ticket, guests can enjoy a four-course meal, each accompanied by a complementary wine from Ruby Wines Inc. The proceeds will go to the Pennies for Poverty 2 Cent grant fund.
"It's the first time we've done one quite like this," Turke said. "It's a nice evening out for people."
Pennies for Poverty also hosts speakers as part of a lecture program open to the public.
In March, the group will hold a weekend-long food drive at Shaw's plaza to collect canned goods and nonperishable foods for area food pantries.
The pantries seek a range of items, such as snacks for kids to bring to school, breakfast items, pasta and spaghetti sauce, and toiletries, Turke said.
IF YOU GO
What: Wine Tasting Dinner for Pennies for Poverty
When: Tuesday, Feb. 8; 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: Oregano Pizzeria and Ristorante, 16 Pleasant St., Newburyport
Why: Pennies for Poverty: 2 Cents 4 Change, awards grants to local agencies to fill urgent needs or fund initiatives to raise people out of poverty.
How: Tickets are $60 per person. For information about the menu or to purchase tickets, call 978-358-7484 or e-mail 2c4c@2cents4change.com.
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