We are stronger together. At La Colaborativa, we know how to navigate the path from instability to empowerment. Every voice matters, and as a united community, we create lasting positive change to enhance the lives of Latinx individuals.
Empowerment through Dignity, Love, and Respect
For over 35 years, La Colaborativa has been at the forefront of empowering Latinx immigrants and their families to build vibrant, equitable communities. Through culturally accessible services, advocacy for equitable public policies, and the cultivation of emerging leaders, we foster systemic change that uplifts the voices of those too often marginalized. As the only Latina-led organization in Chelsea, we serve as a trusted ally to Massachusetts’ immigrant communities, providing vital support to while creating lasting policy changes to benefit all communities.
At La Colaborativa, our mission is rooted in addressing societal injustices and creating pathways for social and economic advancement. We tackle critical challenges such as food security, housing stability, health equity, youth empowerment, and immigrant leadership, while celebrating the rich cultural contributions of our community. Through grassroots organizing and strategic initiatives, we strive to build a just and inclusive future for all.
The work we do reflects the resilience, strength, and aspirations of our community. La Colaborativa is committed to fostering cities where opportunity and justice are accessible to everyone. With a vision grounded in equity and a deep understanding of our community’s needs and assets, we continue to champion initiatives that transform lives and inspire change.
We Create Systemic Change
Board of Directors
Meet the talented individuals who guide our organization.
Our Team
Get to know our incredible team members.
Fred Cataldo
Director of Finance
Yaquelin Cordon
Bookeeper & Office Manager
Anais Roa
Membership Specialist
Jessica Armijo
Case Manager
Sonia Jimenez
Promotora de Salud
Brenda Romero
Promotora de Salud
Marcos Ramirez
Promotor de Salud
Frequently Asked Questions
Get insights and answers to common questions asked by community members.
Contact usWhere do I have to live to receive services from La Colaborativa?
La Colaborativa serves the Metro North region, including Chelsea, Revere, Everett, Lynn, and East Boston. We also serve community members in shelters and transitional housing depending on their circumstances. Call 617.889.6080 to speak with one of our team members about eligibility requirements for specific programming.
When does the food bank operate?
Distribution occurs from 12:00 pm every Wednesday and from 9:30 pm every Friday, until food runs out. Please plan to arrive before the distribution time as we get quite busy. We are proud to serve nutritious and balanced Latin culinary staples. We can only distribute food to adults 18 years and older.
Who can receive food?
Anyone over 18 who lives in our Metro North service area is eligible to receive food from La Colaborativa’s food pantry. We are limited to distributing one full box per household, so only one member from each household needs to come to the distribution area.
How can I become a volunteer?
La Colaborativa has a range of opportunities to support our work. Please visit our Volunteer page and submit an application form if you are interested in volunteer opportunities. You will then be contacted by a member of our team. Volunteer opportunities are open to anyone, but Spanish proficiency is helpful, and all minors under 18 must be accompanied by a group supervisor or guardian.
What’s the best way to donate?
Visit our Donate page to learn more about donating to La Colaborativa. We deeply value all contributions that support our community. Please reach out to development@la-colaborativa.org if you have interests in a particular program.
Does La Colaborativa accept donated items?
If you are interested in donating items to La Colaborativa, please contact hola@la-colaborativa.org. We currently do NOT accept used or worn clothing items, only items with the tags still on. School supplies, sanitary items, toiletries, and homeware, and canned goods are always appreciated.
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We Create Systematic Change
Together, we are stronger. Every voice matters, and as a united community, we create positive change to enhance the lives of Latinx individuals.
Survival
We prioritize urgent needs like emergency housing, food access, and case management, first.
Stability
Creating a stable, reliable, and safe environment for our community is at the forefront of our mission.
Empowerment
We provide our communities with effective tools to amplify their voices and advocate for their prosperity.
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