Message From Archbishop Henning – Federal Scholarship Tax Credit A Brighter Future for All Massachusetts Students: Catholic – Public – Private – Every Student

Dear Parishioners,

You may already be aware of the Federal Education Tax Credit authorized by Congress last year. The credit permits taxpayers to deduct up to $1700 of their Federal tax liability by donating the funds to a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO).

Through such SGOs, donations may be used to assist Catholic school families with scholarships. This alone would have a transforming effect on the 98 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Boston. The law also permits donations to fund tutoring, afterschool programs, special education services, and transportation for students in public schools. In fact, 90% of the students in Massachusetts would be eligible for assistance.

The law requires each State Governor to “opt-in” for funds to be dispersed in the State. More than 30 US States have already opted in. Governor Healey has thus far declined to opt Massachusetts in. This means that Massachusetts residents will still be eligible for the credit, but their donations will have to be given to SGOs in other states.

I realize that you have previously received information on this opportunity. I am writing again because the number of people calling or signing has been low. I believe that this effort is critical to families and students in our State whether the children attend Catholic schools or public schools. Please encourage your parishioners to take a few moments to write or call the Governor by using the QR code or phone number on the attached flyer. Please know how grateful I am for supporting this worthy effort.

As the opt-in must take place before the new year, the need to express support is urgent. This is a unique opportunity to improve education for our children in every setting, public schools and Catholic schools. I am making a personal appeal for your help, and I would be most grateful if you might share this appeal from me and the attached flyers as soon as possible by whatever means are available to you.

Yours in Christ,

Archbishop Richard G. Henning