Freedom House receives $300,000 challenge grant

Freedom House has received a $300,000 challenge grant from the Amelia Peabody Charitable Fund. “We are thrilled about this opportunity,” said Freedom House Chief Executive Officer Katrina Shaw. “The generous support of the Amelia Peabody Charitable Fund will help us to reach our goal and rebuild Freedom House.” The 65-year-old organization currently serves more than 1,000 people annually, primarily assisting lower-income, minority and first generation students to get into college, graduate and give back to the community.

When social activists Muriel and Otto Snowden founded Freedom House in 1949, their hope was that the organization would become a trusted and respected community institution serving many generations. APCF’s Trustees awarded this grant based on their belief in Freedom House and its legacy, due in large part to its strong leadership over the years, starting with the Snowdens, down to their daughter Gail, and now with Shaw at the helm.

However, in order to receive the $300,000 Peabody grant, Freedom House must raise $300,000 in matching funds by December 15.

“That is why it is called a challenge grant,” said Shaw. “However, I am confident that we can meet this challenge with everyone’s support. We are and will be calling upon current donors, corporations, churches, the media, everyone. There isn’t anyone who is originally from Boston whose life has not been touched by Freedom House in some way.”

Boston City Councilor Tito Jackson grew up steps from Freedom House, and beyond providing him with a scholarship and guidance throughout his college years, the organization helped to fuel his desire to become and remain civically engaged in his community. “Freedom House was instrumental in making Boston a more inclusive city, turning it into an environment that made it possible for me to pursue politics and commit to fight societal inequities. Freedom House changes lives and positively influences young minds,” Jackson said.

Renovated space will enable Freedom House to increase the number of students and residents it serves. The organization’s goal is to create accessible space that will continue to provide the community access to 21st-century skill-building, educational advancement and life-long learning.