Aid groups that make a difference
Staff members at Hildebrand Family Self-Help Center have noticed an influx of homeless families this year. With the economy still skittish and the weather only getting worse, center officials anticipate seeing many more families in need. “For 25 years, we’ve been working for homeless families right here in Central Square,” said Stephen Fulton, the assistant director of programs at Hildebrand, which focuses on breaking the cycle of homelessness by helping families to attain and retain their independence, dignity, and self-sufficiency. “With the housing market and the economy the way it is, we can’t get these families into affordable housing fast enough,” he said. It’s a common scenario around the country: people in need and resources inadequate. At the Dec. 10 Harvard Community Gifts Giving Fair, which showcased local charitable organizations, the story was the same: Every little bit counts. Charitable giving may have been down in 2009, but the committed service of these...