RISE Housing & Support Services Recognizes Sonny & Julie Bonacio, Meg Kelly for Philanthropic Contributions

SARATOGA SPRINGS — RISE Housing and Support Services held an appreciation luncheon recognizing the philanthropic work of Sonny and Julie Bonacio and Meg Kelly of Bonacio Development, with the “Get it Done” award.

All three were credited by the organization as having been very active supporters of RISE and its mission: “Before the idea of the Adelphi Shelter was even conceived, Meg Kelly worked hard to locate and secure funding and partners to help make their HOMEBASE project a reality,” according to a statement from RISE. 

HOMEBASE begins construction this summer and hopes to combat isolation and provide semi-structured therapeutic opportunities for people to develop skill sets and a natural support system. 

The low-barrier, psychosocial day program will provide a supportive, safe community for vulnerable citizens, including those experiencing homelessness, to simply exist and be accepted. 

Congressman Paul Tonko (D-Amsterdam) was credited for being able to secure a significant amount of money for the $3.6 million project through Community Project Funding (HUD). Former Saratoga Springs Mayor Meg Kelly personally secured over $300,000 in private contributions to help close the funding gap, according to RISE.

The HOMEBASE project will be located at RISE’s headquarters.

“The Bonacios and Ms. Kelly don’t really see barriers,” said Sybil Newell, RISE Executive Director, in a statement. “They look at a mountain, climb it to the top; then help everyone else up. Their selflessness and community-minded actions have been a major help to RISE and our programs, but more importantly to the individuals we serve. The phrase ‘it takes a village…’ doesn’t just apply to raising children. I’m so thankful to Sonny, Julie, and Meg for seeing that, and acting on it.”

For more information about RISE Housing & Support Services, visit riseservices.org.