The Care Center

Bringing the power of education, arts and culture to youth and their families in Holyoke, MA

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A Difficult Update and Request

In light of the global pandemic, we have cancelled our Annual Fundraising Party, an event we all look forward to. The theme of the event was going to be community. Ironically, it now seems that one of the most compassionate things we can do as a community is to stay apart—at least for now. But in the face of this, we ask you, our community, to support The Care Center’s work to lift young women and their families.

At the event, I was going to tell you about our plans to open housing for young parents in college (Roqué House.) How Roqué House, opening next year, will help students juggling toddlers and homelessness complete college. How the space will also host movie nights and art openings. We were going to introduce you to two Care Center students who formed a bond so close they now consider each other family. We were also going to tell you about the graduates of the Microcollege who are completing bachelor’s degrees at Smith and Mount Holyoke and supporting each other through life’s challenges. I am disappointed that you won’t be able to hear about these things in May.

I have to be candid. This event is our most significant source of unrestricted funding. This year, in particular, our fundraising needs are greater than usual as we prepare to open Roqué House and stabilize the Bard Microcollege as it enters its fifth year. To support our innovative game-changing programs, I am hoping you will dig particularly deeply to help us finish the year in the black and move these expansive and effective ideas forward.
Please consider making a donation here or mail a check to Jane Slater’s attention at The Care Center, 247 Cabot Street, Holyoke, MA 01040.
Stay safe and thank you in advance for your support.

Sincerely,

Anne Teschner

Executive Director

P.S. While The Care Center’s facility is temporarily closed, our work to support young families goes on. Our inventive teachers and counselors are staying in touch with students through Google classroom, text and phone calls. We will be posting updates and useful resources for families on our Facebook page. Join us there!