By Katie Farrell Lovett
Staff writer
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NEWBURYPORT — The Institution for Savings Charitable Foundation has awarded $50,000 to Roof Over Head Collaborative, bank officials announced yesterday.
The mission of ROOF, formed in 2009, is to provide more transitional housing for the homeless of Greater Newburyport. ROOF is hoping to raise funds and purchase properties in Amesbury, Newburyport and Salisbury. They intend to partner with a local social service organization that will then manage the property and screen tenants, as well as provide services.
"The mission of our Charitable Foundation is simple: to put our money into the hands of those in our communities who need it most," bank president Michael Jones said in a statement. "We are fortunate to have this organization to provide such an important and needed service within our communities, and pleased that we can assist them in this way."
ROOF chairwoman Norma Beit said yesterday the nonprofit organization is launching a "major fundraising push" and seeking corporate gifts and individual gifts.
Its goal is to purchase three properties a year over the next decade in order to provide hundreds with a transitional home and social services, she said.
"We are grateful to the Institution for Savings in helping us on the path to providing transitional housing for homeless children and their families," Beit said in a statement. "The Institution for Savings Charitable Foundation's support solidifies the resolve of the many local people who have donated money, time and talent during the past few months. ROOF is committed to impacting the lives of local homeless people, especially children, who are so traumatically impacted by homelessness."
