Crittenton Women's Union - Helping Women and Their Families Achieve Economic Independence and Better Futures

What does the Crittenton Women's Union do?
Crittenton Women's Union (CWU) is a nonprofit organization that transforms the course of low-income women's lives so that they can attain economic independence and create better futures for themselves and their families. We accomplish this by:

Providing safe housing, caring supports, education, and training programs;
Innovating new programmatic designs based on research and client experience;
Using this knowledge and experience to shape public policy.

What is Crittenton Women's Union known for?
In July 2006, Crittenton and The Women's Union, two organizations founded in the 19th century, merged to better meet the needs of low-income women and their families.

CWU has more than 300 years of combined service and support on behalf of low-income and at-risk women and their families.
We are the Commonwealth's largest provider of transitional housing for homeless mothers and children; and started the first transitional home for domestic violence survivors in New England.
CWU offers the opportunity for individuals to complete their education or receive further training, encouraging them to become economically independent.

What services/programs does Crittenton Women's Union offer?

Housing: Emergency and transitional housing; permanent housing search and placement.
Education: Alternative high school; GED; college/career counseling.
Workforce Development: Technology training; job-readiness; career development; professional mentoring.
Family Support Services: Parenting education; health and wellness; early literacy; early education.
Research and Advocacy: Designing innovative programming based on research; using our knowledge to inform public policy and achieve social change.

How many people are reached by CWU's services and programs each year?

2,000+ individuals are touched by our services.
350+ homeless families reside in our housing programs.
300+ students are enrolled in our education and training programs.
1,500+ families with children receive early education, family support skills and parenting education.

Where is Crittenton Women's Union located and how do I find out more about your programs?
Contact us at one of the numbers below; we'll be happy to answer your questions.

Administrative Office: One Washington Mall, Boston, MA 02108, 617.259.2900
Program Facilities: Ten Perthshire Road, Boston 02135, 617.782.7600; additional sites in Allston, Brookline, Dorchester, Mattapan, and Roxbury

Where does CWU get its funding?
With a $10 million annual budget, 70% comes from government sources and 30% comes from private sources (foundations, corporations and individuals). Individual supporters play a critical role in helping us reach our fundraising goals.

Is CWU a cost-effective organization? Are fundraising costs kept to a minimum?
Yes! The National Charities Information Bureau recommends that nonprofit organizations spend at least 60% of their revenue on programs. At CWU, 75% of revenue is allocated to programs and 7% is allocated to fundraising expenses. An additional 18% is spent on support services that include staff development and training, program planning, and quality assurance. CWU strives to keep costs at a minimum while delivering the highest level of services.

Can I get a first-hand look at CWU and its programs?
We welcome you to come and visit! We would be happy to arrange tours of our facilities and meetings with various staff members. For more information, contact us at 617.259.2900.