SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - During the month of April, Freedom Credit Union will be collecting donations to help benefit the Springfield-based Way Finders at all of their branches throughout western Massachusetts. Many stores confirmed at Springfield Crossing as construction continues Way Finder’s mission to create an equitable, thriving region by bringing home stability and economic mobility to western Massachusetts. The agency provides services such as emergency financial housing assistance, support for renters, and help for those facing foreclosure. It also helps people secure employment, economic mobility, and home ownership. The donations that the community is invited to make will help fund the following efforts: Building and managing affordable housing in urban, rural and suburban settings Helping more than 5,000 families access emergency assistance and housing subsidies every year Helping people become first time home buyers Providing emergency shelter to families experiencing homelessness Supporting young parents and survivors of domestic abuse Fostering housing stability through financial education and employment The bank collects donations every month for a different charity as part of its Month of Giving campaigns. “Safe and secure housing is a basic essential,” said Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch. “Financial instability combined with a shortage of affordable housing in our region has forced many people into dire circumstances. We hope they know they’re not alone.” Local News Headlines Dressing sold at Trader Joe’s in 17 states recalled over undeclared allergens State using interest income to pay down $105 million in debt Fuel rates, mandates, tariffs add punch to energy price stew Springfield custodian says $1 million lottery ticket changed his life WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less