Waltham Cares Dinner sets fundraising record for Chaplains on the Way

Chaplains on the Way held its second annual Waltham Cares Dinner Wednesday night at the American Legion Hall, raising more than $40,000, a record, to support the organization’s work helping people experiencing homelessness and hardship in the community.

Executive Director Mike Jones served as master of ceremonies for the event, which brought together community members, city councilors and supporters of Chaplains on the Way. Organizers said this year’s dinner surpassed last year’s fundraising total, setting a new record for the event, with some 140 people in attendance.

State Rep. Tom Stanley spoke about the importance of the community coming together during difficult times. He highlighted the role residents, businesses and organizations play in helping struggling neighbors and emphasized the importance of stepping up when people need support.

Money raised at the dinner funds Chaplains on the Way’s core daily operations through the winter, when the organization’s services are particularly important. The fundraiser gives the organization resources to continue providing assistance and outreach to people in need throughout the colder months.

Chaplains on the Way is open five mornings a week, filling the gap between overnight shelters closing and the Community Day Center in Waltham opening, giving guests a warm place to rest.

Donations help provide food, hygiene products, toiletries, clothing, sleeping bags and other supplies, as well as a hot breakfast prepared and served by volunteers. Chaplains also greet guests and help them navigate healthcare, housing and social services.

Louise Rachin, president of the board, credited the community for making this year’s dinner a success and thanked supporters for coming together and opening their hearts — and their wallets — to support Chaplains on the Way.

Sponsors and volunteers

• Platinum Sponsors:
  • Susan & Paul Pintus
  • Susan & Richard Knapp
• Gold Sponsors:
  • Armstrong Ambulance
  • Steve Ayres
• Silver Sponsors:
  • Annette Reynolds
  • Beverly Loudin & Scott Epstein
  • Anine DeGrood
  • Maurie & Peggy Fox-Warren
  • Louise Rachin & Duncan Glover
  • Watertown Savings
  • UPA Outreach Board 

Partners, Vendors & Helpers

• The Jones Partnership / First Parish Waltham (FPW): Martha Creedon and Deb Jose
• Food: Mike Columba and Chef Sandro from Brelundi
• Flowers: Pie-Chun Lin and You Have Flowers
• Music: Len Lyons and his band
• Event Leadership: Tom Stanley
• Core Team: The Chaplains on the Way (COTW) Board, Art Lajara Diaz and all volunteers