This fund was created by Mary Margaret Quinn-Devine to honor her late beloved husband, Joseph G. Devine, and in memory of her family members: Anothony (Tony) J. Knopp, Alice G. Quinn, Winnifred E. Quinn, Christine M. Curran, Douglas B. Clark, Mary F. and William F. Quinn, Mary T. and Joseph G. Devine, Sr.
The primary goal of the fund is to address barriers that impede the growth, development, and advancement of the adult learners enrolled in the programs at Julie’s. Typical barriers include: transportation (we provide T passes), food insecurity (we provide food cards), shut off notices for utilities, cell phones (an emergency device). Julie’s full-time Family Advocate and teachers/advisor work with adult learners to access supports from agencies who provide emergency assistance. Some necessities, however, are not covered. This fund has also supported equipment and supply needs for new babies, rain/cold weather gear, and health supplies (first aid kits, baby thermometers). Further, when our adult learners secure safe housing, they often need assistance to secure furnishings, food, and transportation to help set up the new apartment. Again, our Advocate works to link the family to agencies that do supply emergency furnishings (beds, bureaus…), but this fund helps fill the gaps.
Over the years we have learned that if barriers are not addressed right away, an adult learner’s trajectory to transformation can be derailed. We do everything in our power to keep out adult learners and their children connected to the trusted staff at Julie’s. The resources from this fund help do just that!
