Melrose Emergency Fund Received More Than $32K In December

MELROSE, MA — Melrose community members banded together through December to add more than $32,000 to the city’s Emergency Fund, the Melrose Mayor’s office announced last Wednesday.

Of the donations, nearly $6,000 came through a pair of anonymous contributions, according to city officials.

“I am particularly astounded by the outpouring of generosity from our residents, our many local organizations, and the anonymous givers who donated to the Melrose Emergency fund this giving season,” Melrose Mayor Paul Brodeur said.

The Emergency Fund functions to provide one-time help to Melrose residents who experience financial emergencies. The fund primarily covers basic needs in these situations, such as food, fuel and utilities, officials said.

The fund is entirely donor-supported. There are no overhead costs, officials said, as city staff handle the fund’s administration as part of their normal duties.

While donations are accepted year-round, officials last week said they’re especially welcome during the holiday season.

Brodeur thanked donors in his recent comments.

“Thank you for helping us help our residents who need it most,” he continued.

Individuals interested in donating to the Emergency Fund can do so by sending a check to "Melrose Emergency Fund, Mayor's Office, 562 Main St., Melrose, MA 02176." Donors can also bring a check directly to the Mayor's Office on the second floor of City Hall. Checks should be made out to the City of Melrose, with "Melrose Emergency Fund" in the memo line.

The Emergency Fund also accepts donations through the city of Melrose’s online bill payments webpage.

Anyone with questions about the Emergency Fund can call (781) 979-4440.

All applications are confidential.

The city released a list of recent Emergency Fund donors with its December announcement available here.