MANCHESTER, N.H.– Members First Credit Union has donated $5,000 to Waypoint, the oldest human services/children’s charitable organization in New Hampshire.
Waypoint has opened an emergency shelter for youth and young adults experiencing homelessness in Manchester. Members First said it recognizes the tremendous needs facing its community right now and is committed to supporting nonprofits such as Waypoint who are responding to increasing levels of homelessness.
“Giving back to our community has always been one of our primary initiatives,” said Michael Simoneau, SVP and community outreach officer, Members First Credit Union. “It’s no secret that Manchester is experiencing a greater volume of people struggling with housing insecurity, and that includes area youth. When we heard Waypoint was taking concrete steps to help, we wanted to be a part of their efforts.”
The credit union said Waypoint works collaboratively with New Hampshire and eastern Vermont communities to maintain a social safety net. The emergency shelter in Manchester provides short-term supportive housing for 14 young adults from 18 to 25 years old. While living in the shelter, residents are equipped with the tools to help them gain independence. Waypoint’s goal is for the participants to move into safe housing after fewer than 90 days in the program.
“This generous gift from Members First Credit Union will make an immediate and lasting difference in the lives of our state’s most vulnerable and at-risk youth,” says Borja Alvarez de Toledo, president and CEO of Waypoint. “It is only with community partnerships such as this that we can effectively take the next step toward ending youth homelessness in New Hampshire.”
Below, from left, Borja Alvarez de Toledo, Waypoint president and CEO; Michael Simoneau, Members First SVP and community outreach officer; Paul Staller, Waypoint director of development.