SYFS needs help to continue serving the Shrewsbury community

Since 1983, Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services (SYFS) have provided counseling and education services to Shrewsbury families in need.

According to the agency, an average of seven hundred client-families are assisted annually to help with issues such as child abuse, homelessness, domestic violence, eating disorders, juvenile delinquency, anxiety, depression, divorce, and child academic and behavior disorders. Of those client-families, 40% are considered low or no income.

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a financial crisis in almost every family, company and organization. But the impact in organizations like SYFS is double: they are short in resources, but the need for mental health assistance increases during the pandemic.

“We are seeing an increase in panic attacks, depression, anxiety and isolation fear. Every population is vulnerable,” SYFS affirms in an online fundraiser recently created.

One-third of the SYFS operating budget comes from its annual fundraising gala. Canceled due to COVID-19. And with schools closed, the organization has also lost its “wraparound” counseling funding.

SYFS is asking for help to remain open serving the community. The agency created an online fundraiser that already raised more than $50,000 with the support of more than 250 neighbors and organizations.

“Please give now. We need you more than ever,” the local organization urges.

Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services, Inc. (SYFS), formerly known as Shrewsbury Community Services, Inc. (SCS), is the Town of Shrewsbury’s only private, non-profit human service agency and primary provider of social services for low-income families, regardless of their ability to pay.

To learn more and donate, the Shrewsbury Post invite you to visit the SYFS official online fundraiser here. For more information and updates about the Coronavirus COVID-19 crisis, we recommend checking mass.gov.