Did you know in our state that one in nine households has fallen into poverty? What does that mean? It often means these families and individuals are on the verge of losing their housing, for others they no longer could hold on and have become homeless. The long term affects of poverty are deep and often devastating for these men, women and children.

The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless understands full well that poverty often leads to homelessness. For the children, growing up in poverty can mean coming to school poorly fed or returning from school not knowing if they will have a place to live. The Coalition has focused its work on preventing homelessness and helping those living in poverty to rise up and out.

On May 16, 2013 the Coalition’s Board of Trustees will host the Rising to the Top fundraiser at the Boston Harbor Hotel on Rowes Wharf to support its poverty prevention initiatives.

Barbara Lynch will share her inspirational life story of growing up in a South Boston housing project, rising out of poverty, and becoming a celebrated chef and owner of some of Boston’s best restaurants. Susan Wornick, prominent anchor at WCVB-TV will join us as Master of Ceremonies.

Annually, over 10,000 households are assisted by one of the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless’ programs or initiatives. The agency has a longstanding leadership role working with public schools, community health centers and early intervention home visiting programs in low-income communities offering assistance with housing issues.

I hope you will join us by partnering with us at Rising to the Top.  For tickets, sponsorship and advertising information, simply access the links.

If you have any questions beforehand, please contact me 781.595.7570, X33 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . To learn more about the Coalition, please visit our website at www.mahomeless.org.