Spring Newsletter

 

April 2026

 

Dear Friends,



In February, we lost a member of our CEOC family—our beloved receptionist, Janet Doucette. Since 2003, Janet had been an encouraging pillar of the CEOC team, greeting and assisting community members and working with children in our former childcare program. We hope that Janet's family and loved ones will be comforted, as we have been, by the knowledge that her legacy lives on in the countless lives she impacted.

Thanks to all of you who have offered your sympathy and support to our staff who are feeling this loss so deeply. Please read on for further recognition of Janet’s contributions, as well as our latest news.



Tina Alu

Executive Director



 

In Memory of Janet Doucette


We are proud to share the Cambridge City Council's proclamation honoring the work of Janet Doucette, CEOC's longtime receptionist who passed away on February 7th. Thank you to Councilor Simmons for submitting this fitting tribute. You can also click here to read more about what Janet meant to all of us at CEOC.


 

60th Anniversary Annual Report


CEOC’s 60th year was one defined by resilience in the face of uncertainty. In spring, we rose above the chaos to commemorate our six decades of community action at CEOC's Stronger Together Block Party with more than 700 of you, our friends and supporters. And in fall, you gave back in force by helping your neighbors through the SNAP crisis, ensuring that political brinksmanship would not leave Cambridge families without food.

 

Click here to read CEOC’s 2025 Annual Report.

 
 

Making Tax Season Less Taxing


The April deadline for income tax returns is quickly approaching. Over 1,100 people have dropped off their taxes so far, and more than 800 returns have been submitted and accepted.

 

We’re proud of our 22-year history helping Cambridge residents access their tax credits. Our free tax preparation is available to the elderly, persons with disabilities, anyone of low or moderate income, and limited English speaking taxpayers who need help in preparing their own tax returns. This service is offered in Spanish, Amharic, Portuguese, Haitian Creole, French, Bangla, Tigrinya, Oromifa, and English.


Last year, we helped filers obtain over $2,550,000 in federal and state refunds. It’s not too late if you or someone you know would like help with your taxes; we will be working through June 30th. Please call 617-868-2900 or email taxes@ceoccambridge.org if you have questions about our drop-off system.


 

30th Annual Immigrants' Day at the State House


Immigrants' Day is always an inspiring and energizing event, and this year's theme of Courage over Fear made the gathering more powerful than ever.

Over 1,200 people showed up at the Massachusetts State House for a dialogue with representatives including Governor Maura Healy, House Leader Carlos González, and Senate President Karen Spilka.


Being in community with so many advocates fighting for legislative priorities to help immigrants was heartening. We want to thank State Senator Sal DiDomenico and State Representative Mike Connolly for meeting with us and sharing their support for the PROTECT Act and other priorities. Together, we are helping shape policies that respect the dignity and humanity of our immigrant communities.

 

Healthy Pantry Awards


Recently CEOC received two important seals of approval from The Greater Boston Food Bank. First, we were recognized as a 2025 Healthy Pantry Leader for our commitment to providing nutritious food and creating a welcoming, client-centered pantry experience. Additionally, we received the Greater Boston Food Bank Healthy Pantry Seal of Approval for adopting the Supporting Wellness at Pantries (SWAP) system, which provides nutrition information and heathy food to our participants.


 

Thank you, Elaine O'Reilly!


We share our sincere thanks to board member Elaine O'Reilly, who has stepped down from CEOC's board. Elaine has been a dedicated and thoughtful board member, contributing significantly to our fundraising efforts and expertise on public policy advocacy. We are deeply grateful for her 11 years of service and wish her all the best in this next chapter.

 

Cambridge Economic

Opportunity Committee


617-868-2900

 

Every day, your donation helps a Cambridge neighbor in need...

 
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