Sunward has committed to giving a total of $45,000 in 2020 to ten organizations in New Mexico and Livermore, California who are helping take care of those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.
One of those non-profit organizations is The Barrett Foundation, which provides shelter and safe housing for women and children experiencing homelessness or domestic violence.
The Barrett Foundation is working hard to keep the families they serve as safe as possible during this pandemic. According to Interim Executive Director Melissa Kaminsky, their clients are facing many obstacles during the pandemic. “Because we offer a community living environment, we have had to enforce limited contact for the women and children receiving our services,” says Melissa. “The staff and those living at the Barrett House have embraced their “new normal” of living together 24/7, and are striving to maintain a healthy living space.”
Melissa adds, “Everyone in the community is working together to clean, cook, and keep a positive and peaceful environment. This has made everyone feel really close. It’s times like this that truly make our communities strong. We are so grateful for the grant from Sunward; it will really help.”
Sunward members can also help this worthy organization. The need is great for cleaning supplies, including paper towels and Clorox wipes, and most of all, disposable face masks to help keep everyone safe while in close distances, says Melissa. They can also accept kitchenware, toilet paper, disposable paper goods, and fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables. To find out more about The Barrett Foundation and how you can help, visit barrettfoundation.org or call 505.246.9244.
