ARISE for Social Justice is a Springfield, Massachusetts-based, grassroots organization, the primary purpose of which is to organize locally for welfare reform, affordable housing, and alleviation of poverty. It was founded in 1985 by four women who were frustrated by the poor people/welfare recipients rights situation. Its members, mostly women, are or have been on welfare, and they come from diverse racial, ethnic and educational backgrounds. ARISE's stated purpose is "to learn to speak for ourselves to advocate for positive changes in the treatment of poor people and in the welfare system." It is "an advocacy organization for the urban poor of Springfield," and as such takes up issues that immediately affect its constituency, notably affordable housing, welfare reform, voter registration, child care, and domestic violence. Its purpose is to organize rather than to provide services.
From the description of ARISE for Social Justice Records, 1977-2005 (ongoing) (bulk 1985-1998). (Smith College). WorldCat record id: 191736088
