The City Mission Society is an urban social justice agency serving over 4,500 people each year. We are the oldest multi-service agency in New England, addressing the educational, economic and social needs of impoverished area residents since 1816. CMS catalyzes strategic partnerships to provide service, education and advocacy. Our programs help youth and adults reach their full potential while providing opportunities for congregations and communities to engage in social action and change.
As a multi-service agency, City Mission Society has three focus areas for its programming: Homelessness Prevention, Youth Peace Promotion, and Faith and Community Engagement. While addressing distinct issues, the three focus areas overlap to form a coherent whole.
HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION
CMS devotes its resources to identifying and assisting families and individuals who are at risk of homelessness, as it is far more caring and cost-effective to intervene before someone needs to become re-housed.
The Emergency Needs Network (ENN) assists some of Greater Boston’s most vulnerable individuals and families who are in crisis due to illness, unemployment, low income, or sudden emergencies. Financial assistance is available on a one-time basis to resolve an immediate problem. Information, referral and advocacy services assist clients to identify resources which may provide long-term assistance.
A Lift Up serves female-headed households, providing flexible funding and up to a year of case management to assure that they remain in stable housing and to support them on the path to economic self-sufficiency.
YOUTH PEACE EMPOWERMENT
CMS provides educational and recreational activities that encourage youth to play a positive role in their communities.