Did you know that older adults are the fastest-growing category of people without homes?
“People aged 50 or older are the fastest-growing group of people experiencing homelessness in America and their numbers are estimated to triple by 2030!”
– National Alliance to end Homelessness
Even homeowners who own a house and have paid off the mortgage are at risk if the tax bill has not been paid. With tax bills based on current property values, the increase in a tax bill can far outdistance the cost-of-living increase in social security or disability income. This is especially true for those who’ve lived in their homes for years or even decades. People sometimes go hungry to pay heating bills and endure cold to buy food, incur medical bills that require expensive co-pays and medications. Sometimes, the tax bill is the one that there’s simply no money left for. People fall behind. If they aren’t able to catch up, their property may be seized and sold at auction.
To begin to meet the need that low-income and disabled seniors have for support to stay in their homes, the City of Greenfield has established a fund that allows taxpayers to voluntarily donate an amount of money toward an elderly and disabled taxation fund to help defray the real estate taxes of low-income elderly and disabled persons. Donations are deposited into a special account in the Town’s treasury to be disbursed to qualifying applicants.
In conjunction with Good Neighbor Week, The LAVA Center is pleased to support this program by hosting the City’s Elderly and Disabled Tax Fund Committee benefit to raise awareness and to encourage donations. The event on Sunday, September 27, 4 pm- 6 pm kicks off with refreshments and time to meet and greet neighbors, and with music provided by The Farley String Band. City Councilor Patricia Williams will share details about the program and how people can donate if they are able and can apply for funding if they are in need.
National Good Neighbor Day was established in 1978 to promote “understanding, love and respect” and to “build cohesive families and communities.” We are asked to create and celebrate events that build stronger local connections, perform acts of kindness, and celebrate the people who live next door. “Whether we realize it or not, we all know someone in our neighborhood or city who needs this fund. We may need it ourselves,” Doug Selwyn, President of the LAVA board comments. “A benefit to spread the word and to contribute to this resource is a wonderful way to re-affirm our commitment to building community and celebrating and supporting our neighbors.”
There is no charge at the door; the event is open to all Greenfield residents. Enjoy music and refreshments, and say hello to Greenfield neighbors old and new. Learn how to apply and make a donation if you can.
The LAVA Center is located at 324 Main Street, Greenfield, MA.
For more information on how to donate or apply for funds, visit greenfield-ma.gov/departments/assessor/elderly_and_disabled_tax_relief.php.
