Berkshire Bank Foundation Supports Community Development Corp.

PITTSFIELD — The Berkshire Bank Foundation has made a $10,000 donation to the Community Development Corp. (CDC) of South Berkshire in support of the nonprofit’s work in providing affordable housing at 100 Bridge St., Great Barrington. The grant will support the construction of 45 new, safe, highly energy-efficient apartments in the center of town for generations to come, enabling residents to walk to work, shopping, and the adjoining 1.5 acres of public park along the Housatonic River.

By utilizing Massachusetts Community Investment Tax Credits, Berkshire Bank Foundation will receive a 50% cash refund ($5,000) from the Commonwealth, enabling it to double its philanthropic impact in the region. This leverage of philanthropic support is available to individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations making donations in support of the CDC’s work.

The Berkshire Bank Foundation’s charitable work aligns directly with the CDC’s work focusing on serving the community. “We look for programs that don’t simply address the issues but create real change. Education and community/economic development are two of our foundation’s focus areas, as is serving the needs of low-income individuals,” said foundation Vice President and Director Lori Gazzillo. “The CDC’s work resonates with the foundation’s goals, as does their patient persistence in continuing the long-term work to provide more homes for families and elders and jobs for our communities.”

CDC Executive Director Timothy Geller expressed his gratitude for the bank’s continued support of the CDC’s affordable-housing work. “Access to affordable housing affects every aspect of our communities by improving the financial stability of families, providing schoolchildren a safe and stable environment, providing employee housing for businesses, and enabling our youth to be able to live and work here.”