Xavier Mission Combating food insecurity and conveying dignity

Xavier Mission utilized a WSCF grant to fight hunger and stock their food pantry with nutritious groceries. For the many low-income older adults and families in Chelsea experiencing food insecurity, the shopping-style “Customer Choice” food pantry is a critical resource. Rather than offering pre-packaged bags, the pantry allows guests to select foods that align with their personal dietary needs and cultural preferences. The “choice” model reduces waste while preserving dignity and autonomy. 

Xavier Mission supplies fresh produce and shelf-stable items, including mangos, bok choy, rice noodles, and soy sauce, to community members monthly. Staffed primarily by volunteers, with WSCF’s funding, the pantry program was able to expand capacity and serve an increased number of shoppers. 

Though a language barrier exists at times between participants and staff, the gratitude of pantry-goers is felt. An older Chelsea resident visits the pantry not only to pick up groceries, but to personally greet volunteers and thank them for making her life a little bit easier. Another guest tells volunteers, “If there is anything I can ever do for you, just ask.”

PS 111 Parent Teacher Association Fostering literacy and strengthening community

With WSCF funding, PS 111’s Parent Teacher Association implemented two impactful literacy initiatives: a total renovation of the school library and the launch of a school newspaper. 

For students and parents at PS 111 in Hell’s Kitchen, the previously decommissioned library has been transformed into a welcoming space with over 2,500 new titles. The library’s selection includes chapter books, graphic novels, science fiction, books by Spanish-language authors, and more. The renovated library improves access to reading materials and creates an environment that fosters literacy. In addition, community ties are strengthened as parents volunteer as staff on “Library Fridays” and participate in family reading nights. 

WSCF’s investment also made possible the launch of a school newspaper, distributed on newsprint and featuring short stories, drawings, recipes, comics, and photographs submitted by students. A particular student who once struggled with writing is now the proud author of a sports column.

Through the WSCF grant, PS 111’s Parent Teacher Association has not only expanded access to literature and creative writing, but has built pride, confidence, and stronger connections across the school community.

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Healthy aging education and disease prevention

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), located in Chelsea, received a WSCF grant in support of their preventative Community Memory Screenings. While AFA’s mission is to service individuals, families, and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, the Memory Screenings program addresses an array of cognitive issues, promoting healthy aging at large. AFA raises awareness around the various causes of memory loss, including vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, mild cognitive impairment, and depression. Most importantly, by educating program participants about brain health, AFA destigmatizes aging and makes early detection of Alzheimer’s disease possible. 

Two Community Board 4 residents who had their memory screened were a father and his teenage son. The son noticed his dad’s recent trouble with remembering and came to AFA for assistance. Understanding his father’s anxiety at the possibility of dementia, the son showed support by participating in a screening too. In fact, both demonstrated a healthy memory, and as a result, AFA advised the older man on lifestyle changes to aid in memory retention, such as improving sleep, and encouraged the duo to return for another check-up next year.