In The News

An Appeal to Support the St. Joseph House Shelter of Hyannis from Father Tom of Holy Trinity Church”

“One of the clearest teachings of Jesus is that we are called to recognize Him in those who are most vulnerable. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells us, “Whatever you did for one of these least brothers or sisters of mine, you did for me.” Those words are not simply an invitation to charity; they are a call to discipleship. As Christians, we cannot look away from those who are hungry, lonely, struggling, or without a place to call home. They are our neighbors, and they are our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Here on Cape Cod, many people experience homelessness for reasons that are far more complex than we often realize. Some struggle with mental illness, addiction, or the loss of employment. Others have endured family crises or simply cannot keep up with the rising cost of housing. While every person’s story is different, every person possesses the same God-given dignity. They deserve to be treated not with fear or indifference, but with compassion, respect, and hope.

Our strongest effort to do our part to reach out to those in need here on the Cape is the St. Joseph House Shelter in Hyannis, a refuge for those without a roof over their head that serves all of Cape Cod. The house is currently in the process of moving to a new location that will better serve the needs of those in need, as well as the community at large.

Unfortunately, this move is facing some serious opposition; and as is the regular case in our modern world, most of the opposition swirls around rumors and conspiracies trying to gin up people’s deepest fears of those who are less fortunate than us. The internet is full of false information, but as they say, a rumor travels the world while the truth is still putting its boots on.

I strongly support the proposed relocation of St. Joseph House to its new site. The shelter has a long history of providing safe, compassionate care for those who have nowhere else to turn, and already has a well-established track record of being a good neighbor in the community. Relocating the shelter will allow this important ministry to continue serving our neighbors in need in a facility better suited to its mission.”

Father Tom, pastor and Dean of the Cape and Islands, and a priest who believes that caring for those in need is at the very heart of the Gospel. I … offer a voice of faith, reminding our community that our response to homelessness says much about who we are and what we value.

Affordable housing lotteries for homes in Brewster and Sandwich announced in Cape Cod Times 4/8/2026. See article here: https://www.capecodtimes.com/story/news/2026/04/08/affordable-homes-brewster-sandwich-ma-lottery-for-sale/89489615007/?utm_source=capecodtimes-newsalert-strada&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsalert&utm_term=hero&utm_content=ncct-hyannis-nletter01 or go to Housing Assistance Corporation website, https://haconcapecod.org/

The scholarship application deadline for the Father Ken Campbell Social Justice scholarship has been extended until May 1, 2026. All interested students are encouraged to apply.

November, 2025

NIA announces student scholarship in honor of founding member Reverend Ken Campbell

The Father Ken Campbell Peace and Justice Scholarship has been established in grateful memory of the Reverend Kenneth Campbell (1941-2025), a tireless advocate for a more just and peaceful world. It is presented by the Nauset Interfaith Association, which Ken helped to found. Consisting of clergy and lay leaders of 24 congregations on lower and outer Cape Cod, its mission is “to deepen understanding between faith
traditions; to provide mutual support and encouragement to each other; and to work together for the
common good of our wider community, especially standing with the poor, oppressed, and
marginalized.” Father Campbell was also a friend and advocate for youth on Cape Cod. It is in that spirit that
this award has been established.
QUALIFICATIONS:
The award shall go to a student graduating from high school who resides in one of the towns in
which NIA is active, including Harwich, Brewster, Chatham, Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro and
Provincetown. The student has plans to continue education in some institution of learning.
BASIS FOR AWARD:
The student shall have demonstrated a commitment to the ideals of this scholarship through
active involvement in organized or individual programs or projects in school or beyond. This shall have
made a positive difference in relationships and also brought about growth within the student.
REQUIREMENTS:
The student shall submit an application for the award, together with materials submitted
electronically or by U.S.Post that “tell the story” of the student’s activity — photos, videos,
certificates, letters, text descriptions, etc. Application may be found at www.nausetinterfaith.org.
There shall be submitted a written reference from at least one non-family adult who has
observed the student’s contributions, such as a teacher, guidance counselor, coach, pastor or other
community leader, stating reasons for recommending the student.

All materials must be submitted by April 17, 2026
Nauset Interfaith Association email: NausetInterfaithCapeCod@gmail.com
Post Office address (if needed): Madalyn Hillis-Dineen, 90 Anawan Rd, Brewster MA 02631
For more information about Nauset Interfaith Association, and/or to contribute to this scholarship fund,
see www.nausetinterfaith.org .

Navigating the Impact of Trump’s Tariffs on Small and BIPOC-Owned Businesses

In recent years, trade policies have become a central topic of discussion, and the impact of tariffs—particularly those imposed during the Trump administration—has been felt across industries. While tariffs were initially introduced as a means of protecting American businesses, their effects have been far-reaching, especially for small businesses, with BIPOC-owned enterprises facing unique challenges.

What Are Tariffs? Tariffs are taxes or duties placed on imported goods. The Trump administration’s tariffs primarily targeted products from China, but they also affected goods from other countries, leading to an increase in the cost of raw materials, finished goods, and other imports.

How Do Tariffs Impact Small Businesses? Small businesses, including those owned by BIPOC entrepreneurs, are particularly vulnerable to the consequences of tariffs. Here’s why:

1. Increased Costs of Goods- Small businesses often rely on affordable raw materials and goods from international suppliers. With tariffs in place, the cost of these imports has risen, forcing business owners to either absorb the cost or pass it on to customers. For small and BIPOC-owned businesses already operating on tight margins, this can be a significant strain.

2. Disruption of Supply Chains- Small businesses typically don’t have the same level of leverage with suppliers that larger companies do. Tariffs can disrupt established supply chains, leading to delays and higher prices for products, further complicating the operational needs of smaller businesses.

3. Barriers to Exporting- Many BIPOC-owned businesses are engaged in international trade, whether through exporting goods or services. The introduction of tariffs can increase the cost of doing business abroad, making it harder for them to compete in global markets.

4. Heightened Competition- The rising costs of goods often lead larger businesses to pass on tariffs with ease, thanks to their scale and market presence. This can put smaller, BIPOC-owned businesses at a competitive disadvantage, especially when facing larger companies that can absorb these increased costs more efficiently.

Trump’s push for sweeping tariffs—especially on imports from China—doesn’t just hit the global market. It hits home, and it hits harder in historically marginalized communities.

Black, Latinx, and immigrant-owned businesses—often under-capitalized and lacking access to major lines of credit—are more vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and rising costs. These businesses frequently rely on imported goods, whether it’s materials for manufacturing, products for resale, or equipment for services.

When tariffs force small businesses to pay hundreds of thousands more overnight, businesses in low-income areas and communities of color may not have the cushion to survive.

For BIPOC entrepreneurs already navigating systemic barriers, this is yet another blow. While big corporations adjust and lobby for exemptions, smaller players are left scrambling.

If we’re serious about economic justice, we need trade policies that don’t reinforce racial and economic disparities—but instead invest in a thriving, inclusive small business ecosystem.

What Can BIPOC-Owned Businesses Do? While tariffs present real challenges, there are steps BIPOC-owned businesses can take to adapt:

Reevaluate Supply Chains: Diversify sourcing strategies to reduce dependence on tariffs-heavy countries. This may involve sourcing goods from different regions or negotiating better deals with domestic suppliers.
Leverage Advocacy Groups: Organizations like Amplify POC and Love Live Local can provide resources, training, and advocacy to ensure that BIPOC business owners understand their rights and are informed about any policy changes. By coming together, businesses can amplify their voices to push for policy changes that benefit all small businesses.
Seek Financial Support: Look into government programs designed to support small businesses impacted by tariffs. This includes grants, loans, and tax relief options.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Trade Policy The Biden administration has taken steps to review and adjust tariffs, but the landscape remains uncertain. It’s important for small businesses to stay informed about future policy changes and to continue to advocate for fair trade practices that support equitable growth for all businesses.

We understand that navigating these economic changes can be difficult, but together, we can adapt and build more resilient, equitable businesses. At Amplify POC, we remain committed to supporting BIPOC-owned businesses and ensuring they thrive, no matter the obstacles they may face.

If you’d like more information about how tariffs are affecting your business or need assistance in finding resources, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you stay strong in this evolving landscape.

In peace, equity & justice,

Tara Vargas Wallace, Executive Director, Amplify POC, Inc.

“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” -James Baldwin

Sources:

NY Post – Idaho entrepreneur hit with massive tariff bill

Business Insider – Fashion brand explains 3 ways tariffs hit small business

Wall Street Journal – Bipartisan concerns over small business impact

December, 2023

The Conversations With Police Task Force of the MLK Action Team will be the recipients of this year’s Rosenthal Award from the Barnstable County Human Rights Advisory Commission! (See the Cape Cod Times article here: https://nausetinterfaith.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/MLK-Police-Task-Force.pdf

The Rosenthal Community Champion Award, named after Irving Leopold Rosenthal, is given to individuals in the public sector (law enforcement, elected officials, etc.) recognized by their peers, community, and associates as individuals who have fostered and supported human rights, concepts, and ideals, particularly those who have worked to advance human rights and to eliminate discrimination against immigrants in Barnstable County.

The Human Rights Commission has told us that the work of the Task Force exemplifies these principles. They wrote “We honor the deep, hard work that all of you have put in to create real, impactful, lasting change in our communities.”

The Conversations with Police Task Force will be receiving this award at the annual Human Rights Celebration occurring on: Monday, December 11, 8:30 – 10:30 am at the Emeral Resort/ Hyport Conference Center, 35 Scudder Ave., Hyannis.

Visit this link for a more detailed description of the work of the Conversations With Police Task Force written by Action Team and Police Task Force member, Jeanne Morrison: https://nausetinterfaith.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Work-of-Conversations-with-Police-pdf.pdf

July 2021

Chief Scott MacDonald of the Orleans PD recognizes the relationship built with the MLK Action Team Police Task Force as a contributor to Orleans receiving the first place Community Policing Award from the New England Association of Chiefs of Police. The task force has been meeting with the police chiefs from Chatham, Brewster, and Orleans for the last year with a focus on improving the relationship between the police and our communities of color.

Read the article from the Cape Cod Chronicle.