The North Shore Community Action Programs (NSCAP) continues its vital mission of empowering local residents toward self-sufficiency, serving as the designated anti-poverty agency for Beverly, Danvers, Peabody, Salem, and 18 other Essex County communities. Under the leadership of President Paul Crosby, NSCAP has expanded its reach and impact, serving nearly 8,000 individuals last year—with almost half residing in Salem.
Born from President Johnson's War on Poverty initiative, NSCAP has evolved into a comprehensive support network offering free services across five essential areas: Education and Training, Economic Stabilization, Housing and Homelessness Prevention, Energy Services, and Home Care.
The organization's impact is particularly visible in its housing initiatives, where innovative programs are making a real difference. Their permanent housing program supports the chronically homeless with two years of rental assistance and access to addiction and mental health services. Additionally, NSCAP currently houses 70 families through their shelter program, with another 100 families receiving support services. To maintain positive relationships with landlords, NSCAP maintains a dedicated repair crew to restore apartments between tenancies.
Education remains a cornerstone of NSCAP's services, with English language programs ranging from basic communication to career-specific training. Their specialized certified nursing assistant program has become particularly successful, preparing students for careers in healthcare settings.
The organization's largest initiative is their heating assistance program, which serves over 2,800 households. In Salem alone, NSCAP provided approximately $7,000 in heating bill assistance to local residents. The organization also operates a diaper distribution program for families in need.
With an annual budget exceeding $11 million, NSCAP relies on community support to maintain its extensive services. The Salem Rotary Club contributes $1,500 annually through NSCAP's golf tournament, demonstrating the strong partnership between local service organizations.
Through its comprehensive approach to poverty reduction and community support, NSCAP continues to strengthen our neighborhoods, cities, and towns, ensuring that our most vulnerable neighbors receive the assistance they need to build stable, dignified lives.
For more information about NSCAP's services or to learn how you can support their mission, please visit their website or contact their offices directly.