The Pelham Good Neighbor Fund was founded in 1969 by a group of caring residents who saw a need in their community and decided to take action. Their goal was simple: to offer food and financial assistance to Pelham neighbors facing tough times. Since then, we’ve proudly helped over 2,300 residents through periods of hardship, living up to our heartfelt motto: People Helping People.
That spirit of compassion continues today. Our core committee is made up of 15 dedicated volunteers who give their time and energy year-round—52 weeks a year—to ensure that no one in Pelham faces financial hardship alone. Whether it’s assistance with food, rent, heat, electricity, or other urgent expenses, we’re here to offer support with dignity, respect, and confidentiality.
For over five decades, the Pelham Good Neighbor Fund has been a testament to what a caring community can do. And thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we’ll continue to be here—neighbors helping neighbors—when it matters most.
The Pelham Good Neighbor Fund Committee
Pictured First Row Left to Right: Jason Croteau, Marianne Croteau, Brenda Blake, Karen Fournier, Jamie Connelly
Second Row Left to Right: Melissa Riley, Jason Goucher, Anne Perriello, Chris Beaudry, Phyillis Pike-Church, Suzane DeRoche, Darlene Michaud, Kathy Scalia, Tera Foye, Linda Pace
Missing: Shannon Sullivan, Brian Barbato
The Pelham Good Neighbor Fund Mission
At the Pelham Good Neighbor Fund, our mission is to support Pelham residents facing financial hardship by providing emergency assistance for essentials such as rent, heat, electricity, food, and other critical needs.
To fund this vital work, we rely on the generosity of our community. Our Annual Golf Tournament and Christmas Drive are key fundraising events, and we also receive donations throughout the year from local businesses, organizations, schools, churches, families, and individuals. The Pelham community has consistently shown its compassion and generosity—through good times and bad—and we are deeply grateful for that continued support.
When someone reaches out for help, we understand how difficult it can be. Every request is treated with compassion, respect, and strict confidentiality. We speak with the individual about their financial situation and specific needs, and then review the request with 5 committee members who represent our referral committee. If assistance is approved, we pay the bill directly to the provider—whether it’s a landlord, utility company, or other vendor. For food assistance, we provide gift cards that can only be used to purchase groceries.
We never give cash directly, but we make sure help goes exactly where it’s needed. And when we face uncertainty in a situation, we lean on the side of compassion—because our role is not to judge, but to help.
Our committee is made up fifteen dedicated volunteers who care deeply about the well-being of our neighbors. Thanks to your incredible support, we’ve been able to continue this important work—and we remain committed to making a difference for those who need it most.
Together, we’re building a stronger, more caring Pelham—one neighbor at a time.
Karen Fournier
President
