Michael J. Dias Foundation Nearly Halfway to Capital Campaign Goal
LUDLOW — The Michael J. Dias Foundation is updating the public on the continued success of its ongoing capital campaign, aimed at funding the creation of a sober home for women in Western Mass. The foundation reports significant progress toward its goal. As of December, $211,419 of the $500,000 needed has been raised, with generous contributions from individuals, businesses, and community leaders helping to propel the campaign forward.
Founded in memory of Michael J. Dias of Ludlow, whose young life was tragically lost to the effects of substance addiction, the foundation is committed to honoring his legacy by providing safe, sober, transitional housing in Springfield for men in the beginning stages of recovery. The capital campaign, launched in June 2024, aims to raise funds to establish a fourth sober home under the foundation, this one focused on housing for women in early recovery. The funds will be used to purchase a house capable of housing at least 16 women, hire staff, and cover other startup costs.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to this vital campaign,” said Grace Dias, president of the Michael J. Dias Foundation. “Thanks to their generosity, we are one step closer to providing housing for an underserved population in our community. We know that my son Michael’s vision and spirit will continue to inspire and impact many in need.”
Added Dr. Megan Miller, campaign chair, “as an assistant professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate and a board-certified addiction-medicine specialist, I am very well-versed in how addiction affects women. Gender-specific care is so important, especially in the early stages of recovery. In terms of receiving gender-specific care for substance abuse, women are an underserved population in Western Massachusetts. There is a dire need for a women’s sober home here. The Michael J. Dias Foundation has a proven track record of providing men this specialized type of care, and I look forward to the future of them offering their services to women as well.”
The foundation remains focused on reaching its goal and invites additional contributions to ensure that this project is completed as planned. Donations can be made online at www.mdiasfoundation.org/capital-campaign, or by calling (413) 304-0715 for further information on giving opportunities.