Rise Up for Homes Brings Neighbors Together Through COMIGO Dinners

Rise Up for Homes is a regional organization that focuses on permanent solutions to homelessness. It wants to know what people are thinking about their community and the problems they face. One way to do that is to meet people face-to-face at COMIGO Dinners in their neighborhoods.

Rev. David Lima and Leslie Poulin are hoping a free meal will lead to thoughtful discussion about the issues local residents are concerned about. Both stopped by Townsquare Sunday to explain the process.

Raising Awareness and Building Community

"We're trying to reach areas of New Bedford where there is a lot of need and bring people together," Rev. Lima said. "A lot of it is raising awareness about services that exist, and for us to better understand the needs that are out there, and work together to help."

Poulin said several COMIGO Dinners have been held this year, but most are happening at PAACA headquarters on Coggeshall Street.

"We want to hold these meetings across the city," she said. "We are looking for organizations in neighborhoods, a church, a local nonprofit, any organization that would like to bring people together, to contact us."

What Are COMIGO Dinners?

"COMIGO" stands for "Community Meals Inspire Great Opportunity." Food is provided by Common Ground and everyone is invited.

Lima said among the items discussed are housing issues, substance use disorder, people facing eviction, fuel assistance, food insecurity and more.

"We're trying to touch base with the community, and let them know what types of services do exist," he said.

How You Can Host a COMIGO Dinner

Organizations interested in sponsoring a COMIGO Dinner can visit the Rise Up for Homes website or e-mail info@riseupforhomes.com.

If you would like your nonprofit or charitable organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.