MFA 聘2 新助理館長分掌日本及伊斯蘭藝術

             (Boston Orange) 波士頓美博物術館 (MFA) 宣布任命 Ai Fukunaga (愛福永) 為石橋基金會日本藝術助理館長，任命 Nadirah Mansour 博士為首任伊斯蘭藝術助理館長。

              自 2022 年 4 月上任以來，愛福永一直致力於各種項目，為博物館著名的日本藝術藏品提供新鮮和創新的視角，包括規劃在波士頓和日本的展覽、對藏品進行編目和研究收購。她是第二位擔任這為期兩年職位的助理策展人。2018 年總部位於東京的石橋基金會捐款 100 萬美元設立了這一職為。

Mansour將運用波士頓美術博物館內全美最重要之一的許多伊斯蘭藝術收藏品，和大波士頓及其他地區的伊斯蘭社區合作，來設計創新性的展覽、出版物和公共項目。伊斯蘭藝術助理館長一職是波士頓美術博物館首次專為伊斯蘭藝術而設立的職位，這是經由禮來基金會 (Lilly Endowment Inc.) 宗教和文化機構計劃在2020年捐款250萬元設立的。Mansour預定9月1日上任。

MFA Boston Appoints New Ishibashi Assistant Curator for Japanese Art and Inaugural Assistant Curator of Islamic Art

The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA), has announced the appointment of Ai Fukunaga as the Ishibashi Foundation Assistant Curator for Japanese Art and Dr. Nadirah Mansour as the inaugural Assistant Curator of Islamic Art.  Since assuming her role in April 2022, Fukunaga has been working on a wide range of projects to contribute fresh and innovative perspectives on the Museum’s renowned holdings of Japanese art, including planning for exhibitions in Boston and Japan, cataloging the collection and researching acquisitions. She is the second assistant curator to hold the two-year position, which was established in 2018 through a $1 million grant from the Tokyo-based Ishibashi Foundation. Working in collaboration with Islamic communities in the Greater Boston area and beyond, Mansour will draw on the Museum’s collection—among the most important holdings of Islamic art in the country—to create innovative exhibitions, publications and public programs. This new curatorial position—the MFA’s first focused solely on Islamic art—was established through a $2.5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Religion and Cultural Institutions Initiative, which was given to the Museum in 2020. Mansour will begin her new role at the MFA on September 1.

麻州政府撥款近5000萬元資建16社區內1474戶房屋 華埠大同村停車場改建也在內

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Nearly $50 Million to Advance 1,474 Housing Units in 16 Communities

 

$50 million in direct funding and nearly $90 million in state and federal tax credits will support 26 projects featuring 384 units for very low-income and vulnerable populations

 

FALMOUTH – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced nearly $50 million in direct funding and $89 million in state and federal housing tax credits to support the preservation and development of 1,474 total units across 26 projects. Awarded projects will provide 1,326 affordable units for individuals and families, including 384 units reserved for very low-income residents in 16 communities.   “Housing remains a top priority for our administration and we are proud of the amounts of funding we have committed to affordable housing production as well as the work we have done with our partners in the Legislature to pass major zoning reform and dedicate federal recovery dollars to housing production of all kinds,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “As we combat the housing crisis, we will continue to champion production of affordable rental, homeownership, transit-oriented housing, and market-rate housing units in every corner of the Commonwealth so that across Massachusetts, more residents can access housing they can afford.” “Congratulations to our partners on the Cape celebrating two new housing projects that will transform underutilized parcels into mixed-income housing to help ease the area’s housing shortage,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “Across the Commonwealth, today’s awards will create and preserve nearly 1,500 units, providing new homes for residents in every region of our state.” Lt. Governor Karyn Polito joined Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Jennifer Maddox, representatives from Affirmative Investments, and local officials to announce the awards in Falmouth. With substantial state and local support, Affirmative Investments will undertake the construction of Scranton Main, featuring 48 new affordable housing units for seniors. The development will provide supportive services to residents, feature commercial space, and reserve 16 units for very low-income seniors.   In nearby Orleans, Pennrose Development will transform a vacant commercial building into 62 new mixed-income multifamily and individual units, including 52 deed-restricted affordable units with support from the Town of Orleans and surrounding towns. The Department of Housing and Community Development provides a combination of direct subsidies, state and federal tax credits, and other resources to support the creation and preservation of affordable housing through multiple funding rounds each year. Today’s awards represent the largest funding round of 2022 and include housing for seniors, families, and individuals.   “Addressing the strained housing supply in Massachusetts is necessary for our continued economic prosperity, as ensuring affordable housing options for workers means that employers can continue to attract and retain talent here,” said Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “Our administration has worked closely with municipalities to design programs like MassWorks, Housing Choice, and our One-Stop program to fuel local housing production, and we are thrilled to build on those efforts today by funding 26 transformative housing projects across the state.   “Massachusetts is home to an incredibly talented ecosystem of non-profits, housing developers, advocates, and builders, and DHCD is eager to continue expanding opportunities for housing development in every region,” said Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Jennifer Maddox. “With our partners at MassHousing, Mass Housing Partnership, and CEDAC, we are increasing capacity to offer technical assistance offering more programs for projects of different sizes to meet the varied needs of our 351 cities and towns.” “As ever-increasing housing prices push families and seniors out of their homes, it’s critical that we develop new affordable housing projects to maintain the sustainability of our local communities,” said State Representative Dylan Fernandes. “Scranton and Main will provide dozens of Falmouth seniors with the housing security and resources necessary to continue living on the Cape, and I am deeply grateful to the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development and the Town of Falmouth for their commitment to this crucial project.” “This project will provide 48 units of affordable rental housing in an ideal location,” said Acting Falmouth Town Manager Peter Johnson-Staub. “It is critically important that we move quickly to generate more affordable housing. The Commonwealth, the Town of Falmouth, and the Falmouth Housing Corporation have all stepped up to move this project forward quickly. We know that urgent action is needed and hope to build on this success.” “Affirmative Investments and Falmouth Housing Corporation were so happy to host the Commonwealth today and are very thankful for the support of the Baker-Administration and the Town of Falmouth in bringing 48 incredibly energy efficient affordable senior housing units in a prime location across from the Town’s brand new senior center,” said Affirmative Investments Executive Vice President Tara Mizrahi. “We cannot wait to begin construction!”   The Baker-Polito Administration has shown a deep commitment to increasing the production of housing across all income levels. Since 2015, the administration has invested more than $1.5 billion in the affordable housing ecosystem, resulting in the production and preservation of more than 24,000 housing units, including more than 21,000 affordable units. In 2018, Governor Baker signed the largest housing bond bill in Massachusetts history, committing more than $1.8 billion to the future of affordable housing production and preservation.   Last week, Lt. Governor Polito announced this year’s Permanent Supportive Housing Awards in Worcester with Secretary Kennealy, Undersecretary Maddox, and local officials to advance 237 permanent supportive housing units and 200 shelter beds for vulnerable populations.   Awarded Projects   Gardner Terrace II & Hebronville Mill (Attleboro) are occupied preservation/rehabilitation properties. The sponsor is the nonprofit Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH). DHCD will support the rehabilitation of the properties, currently in MassHousing’s portfolio, with federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Attleboro also will support the properties with funds of its own. When construction is completed, Gardner Terrace II and Hebronville Mill will offer 135 fully rehabilitated units for persons age 55 and older as well as for families. With 135 total units, at least 110 units will be restricted for individuals or families earning less than 60% of area median income (AMI), with 27 units further restricted for individuals or families earning less than 30% of AMI. Anchor Point II (Beverly) is the second phase of a new construction project for families. The sponsor is the nonprofit Harborlight Community Partners. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Beverly will support Anchor Point II with funds of its own. When completed, Anchor Point II will offer 39 affordable rental units, all of which will be restricted for individuals or families earning less than 60% of AMI, with 16 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. Construction is well underway on the adjacent Anchor Point I project. Carol Avenue Rehab (Boston) is an existing family housing project located in Boston’s Allston neighborhood. The sponsor is the nonprofit Allston Brighton CDC. DHCD will support the rehabilitation of Carol Avenue with federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Boston also will provide support to the project with funds of its own. When construction is completed, the project will feature 33 fully rehabilitated units in a prime Allston location. Twenty‑five units will be restricted for individuals or families earning less than 60% of AMI, with nine units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI.  President of CCBA New England Felix Lui (far left) was invited to the grant announcement。 (Photo from Felix Lui) 288 Harrison Residences (Boston) is a new construction project for families located in Boston’s Chinatown neighborhood. The sponsor is Beacon Communities Development, LLC. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits. The City of Boston will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, 288 Harrison Residences will offer 85 total units for individuals and families. Sixty‑three units will be reserved for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 17 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. Beacon Communities intends to build the project to Passive House standards. Harvard Street Housing (Boston) is a new construction project located in Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood that will serve persons with disabilities. The sponsor is Cruz Development Corporation. DHCD will support the project with subsidy funds, and the City of Boston also will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, the project will offer four new units, as well as services, for clients of the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health. 127 Amory (Boston) is a new construction transit-oriented project located in Boston’s Jamaica Plain neighborhood. The nonprofit sponsor is The Community Builders (TCB). DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Boston also will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, 127 Amory will offer 96 total units for individuals and families. At least 65 units will be restricted for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 32 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, making a transition from homelessness. TCB will provide on-site support services to the new residents of 127 Amory. The construction of 127 Amory will continue the extensive redevelopment of the Jackson Square neighborhood, which began more than 10 years ago. 150 River Street (Boston) is a new construction project to be built on a city-owned site in Boston’s Mattapan neighborhood. The nonprofit sponsor is Caribbean Integration Community Development, working with the nonprofit Planning Office of Urban Affairs (POUA). DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Boston also will support the project with funds of its own. In addition, the project has received an award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. When completed, 150 River Street will offer 30 total units for seniors. All 30 units will be restricted for seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with 11 units further restricted for seniors earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. The sponsor will provide support services to the new residents of 150 River Street. Bartlett Station V (Boston) is a new construction project in Nubian Square in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood. The nonprofit sponsor is Nuestra Comunidad, working in partnership with Windale Developers, Inc. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Boston also will support the project with funds of its own. The construction of Bartlett F5 will continue the extensive redevelopment of a prime parcel near the heart of Nubian Square. When completed, Bartlett F5 will offer 44 total units. Thirty-three units will be restricted for individuals and families earning less than 60% of AMI, with nine units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. The sponsor intends to build the project to Passive House standards. Aileron (Boston) is a new construction project located in East Boston. The nonprofit sponsor is the Neighborhood of Affordable Housing (NOAH). DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Boston also will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, Aileron will offer 36 total units, all of which will be affordable to individuals and families earning less than 60% of AMI. Eight units will be further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. 2085 Washington Street (Boston) is a new construction, mixed-income project located in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood. The sponsor is Trinity Financial, Inc., in partnership with the nonprofit Madison Park Development Corporation. The project consists of 64 rental units within a larger 96-unit building. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Boston also will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, 2085 Washington Street will offer 64 new rental units for individuals and families. Forty-four units will be restricted for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 16 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. The project will be built adjacent to an existing Tropical Foods grocery store and will be served by several major bus lines. The sponsor intends to build the project to Passive House standards. E+ Highland (Boston) is a new construction family housing project located in Boston’s Roxbury/Highland Park neighborhood. The sponsor is Rees-Larkin Development, LLC. DHCD will support this transit-oriented project with federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Boston will support the project with funds of its own. The sponsor intends to build the project to Passive House standards. When completed, E+ Highland will offer 23 total units for individuals and families. All 23 units will be restricted for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with three units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. Lincoln School (Brockton) is a historic adaptive re-use project. The sponsor is the nonprofit NeighborWorks Housing Solutions. DHCD will support Lincoln School with state and federal low‑income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Brockton also will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, Lincoln School will offer 37 total units for seniors. All 37 units will be affordable to seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with eight units further restricted for seniors earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. When construction is completed, the sponsor will offer support services to the new residents of Lincoln School. 32 Marion Apartments (Brookline) is a demolition/new construction project. The sponsor is the nonprofit Brookline Housing Authority. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The Town of Brookline also will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, 32 Marion Apartments will offer 115 total units. All 115 units will be restricted for persons age 55 or older, with incomes less than 60% of AMI, with 29 units further restricted for persons earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. Located on a prime site in Brookline’s Coolidge Corner neighborhood, the project will be built to Passive House standards. 108 Centre Street (Brookline) is a new construction senior housing project. The sponsor is the nonprofit Hebrew Senior Life. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits. The Town of Brookline will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, 108 Centre Street will offer 54 total units for seniors. All 54 units will be restricted for seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with 16 units further restricted for seniors earning less than 30% of AMI. The project will be constructed in close proximity to existing senior properties owned by Hebrew Senior Life in Brookline’s Coolidge Corner neighborhood. When 108 Centre Street is completed, the sponsor will offer extensive support services to the new residents. The sponsor intends to build the project to Passive House standards. 52 New Street (Cambridge) is a new construction project. The nonprofit sponsor is Just‑A‑Start. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Cambridge also will support the project with local funds. When completed, 52 New Street will feature 107 total units. Ninety-seven units will be restricted for individuals and families earning less than 60% of AMI, with 17 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. The sponsor worked with the City of Cambridge to have the project zoned as part of an overlay district. The sponsor intends to build the project to Passive House standards. Belcher Apartments (Chicopee) is a historic adaptive re-use project. The nonprofit sponsor is Valley Opportunity Council (VOC). DHCD will support the project with federal low-income housing tax credits. The city of Chicopee also will support the project with funds of its own. When construction is completed, Belcher Apartments will offer 25 total units. Twenty-two units will be restricted for individuals and families earning less than 60% of AMI, with seven units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. Scranton Main (Falmouth) is a new construction senior housing project. The sponsors are Affirmative Investments and Falmouth Housing Corporation. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The Town of Falmouth will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, Scranton Main will offer 48 new units for seniors and a small commercial space. All 48 units will be restricted for seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with 16 units further restricted for seniors earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. The sponsor will offer various support services to the new residents of Scranton Main. The sponsor intends to achieve Passive House certification and the building will be all electric. Carlson Crossing East (Framingham) is a preservation/rehabilitation project. The sponsor is the nonprofit Framingham Housing Development Corp. II. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits. The City of Framingham also will provide support to the project with funds of its own. In addition, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will provide a substantial number of project-based Section 8 vouchers to Carlson Crossing East. When construction is completed, the project will feature 61 fully rehabilitated units for individuals and families; all units will be restricted for individuals and families earning less than 30% of AMI. Hillman Firehouse Restoration (New Bedford) is a historic adaptive re-use project. The nonprofit sponsor is the Waterfront Historic Area League (WHALE). DHCD will support the project with subsidy funds. The City of New Bedford also will support the project with funds of its own. When construction is completed, Hillman Firehouse Restoration will offer eight total units. Five units will be restricted for individuals and families earning less than 60% of AMI, with one unit further restricted for a household earning less than 30% of AMI. Wamsutta Apartments (New Bedford) is an existing scattered-site project. The sponsor is Hall Keen Management, Inc. DHCD will support the preservation and rehabilitation of the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of New Bedford also will support the project with funds of its own. When rehabilitation work is completed, Wamsutta Apartments will offer 144 total units, all of which will be affordable to individuals and families earning less than 60% of AMI, with 19 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI. Orleans Cape Cod Five (Orleans) is a rehabilitation/new construction project. The sponsor is Pennrose, LLC. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The Town of Orleans will support the project with Community Preservation Act funds. In addition, in recognition of the need for regional affordable housing, at least three other Cape Cod towns also will provide funds in support of Orleans Cape Cod Five. The project involves the substantial rehabilitation of a vacant commercial building as well as the construction of new rental units. When completed, Orleans Cape Cod Five will offer 62 total units for individuals and families. Fifty-two units will be affordable to individuals and families earning less than 60% of AMI, with nine units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. 22 Johnston Way (Stow) features the preservation/rehabilitation of an existing property and the construction of additional new affordable units on a separate site. The nonprofit sponsor is Stow Elderly Housing Corp. DHCD will support the rehabilitation and new construction of Stow Apartments with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The Town of Stow also will provide Community Preservation Act funds in support of the project. When completed, Stow Apartments will offer 87 total units for seniors, as well as support services. All 87 units will be restricted for seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with additional units further restricted for seniors earning less than 30% of AMI. Coyle School Residences (Taunton) is a historic adaptive re-use project. The sponsor is SGC Development Partners, LLC. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low‑income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Taunton also will support Coyle School Residences with funds of its own. When construction is completed, this former school building will offer 50 total units for individuals and families. Forty-five units will be restricted for households earning less than 60% of AMI, with 12 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. Prospect Estates (Webster) is an existing preservation/rehabilitation project. The nonprofit sponsor is Affordable Housing and Services Collaborative, Inc. The sponsor acquired the project as part of a work-out with the former owner. DHCD will support the project with federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. When construction is completed, Prospect Estates will offer 25 rehabilitated units for individuals and families. All units will be restricted for households with incomes less than 60% of AMI, with four units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI. Westminster Senior Residences (Westminster) is a new construction project. The sponsor is Commonwealth Community Developers, LLC. DHCD will support the project with state and federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The town of Westminster also will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, the project will offer 50 units for seniors. All 50 units will be affordable to seniors earning less than 60% of AMI, with 10 units further restricted for services earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. The project will be built adjacent to the Town of Westminster’s senior center. The sponsor, working with Montachusett Home Care Corporation, also will offer direct support services to the new residents of Westminster Senior Apartments. Abby’s House Shelter Renovation (Worcester) is an occupied project. The nonprofit sponsor is Abby’s House, an organization known for its extensive work with homeless women and children. The project consists of the rehabilitation of the occupied property in order to address numerous existing conditions, including limited accessibility. DHCD will support Abby’s House Shelter Renovation with subsidy funds. The City of Worcester also will support the project with funds of its own. When completed, Abby’s House Shelter Renovation will offer 12 shelter rooms for homeless women and children. The sponsor also will offer extensive support services to the shelter residents.

麻州政府經濟賦能辦公室將撥款資助14人創辦居家托兒照顧所

 Childcare Startup Grant

In collaboration with Citizens, the Office of Economic Empowerment (OEE) has co-developed the Childcare Startup Grant.

Powered by Citizens & the Office of Economic Empowerment

In collaboration with Citizens, the Office of Economic Empowerment (OEE) has co-developed the Childcare Startup Grant, a grant and educational training program that seeks to fund up to 14 individuals interested in starting a home childcare program in the cities of Lynn and Springfield, Massachusetts.

Grantees will be selected through a publicly advertised application process through the Massachusetts State Treasurer’s Office. An internal selection process will be conducted based on several criteria. Grantees will receive up to $4,500 in funding toward business expenses related to starting a home childcare program. Prior to receiving financial assistance, grantees will be required to join a Family Childcare (FCC) Network, or System in their respective community or surrounding area, as well as participate in educational webinars on running a small business and starting a childcare business in Massachusetts.

Click here to apply for a Childcare Startup Grant

Eligibility

• Be a resident of Lynn or Springfield, Massachusetts
• Display interest and ability to open a home childcare program
• Can provide proof of completion of the Massachusetts Early Education and Care StrongStart Potential Provider Training for Family Child Care.

Program Timeline

• Thursday, 7/21: Applications launch.
• Friday, 8/5: Applications close.
• Monday, 8/8 – Friday, 8/19: OEE reviews applications and selects grantees.
• Friday, 8/19: Grantees are alerted of selection; W-9 form and questionnaire must be submitted by Wednesday, 8/31.
• Week of Monday, 9/12: Educational program launches.

Questions and Answers (Q&A)

What are the criteria/selection process?

• At this time, applicants must be residents of Lynn or Springfield.
• Applicants must show due diligence and interest in becoming a licensed Family Childcare Center (FCC) provider.
• Applicants must complete form and submit W-9 in order to receive grant.

If the applicant does not become licensed, they will be required to return grant. What are the requirements?

Grantees must become licensed within 12 months upon acceptance into program in order to receive full amount of grant.

What is the amount and timeline of the grant funds?

The funds will be distributed in two phases – the first partial funds of $2,250 will be provided in December 2022 after completing some professional development or webinar trainings while the second distribution of $2,250 will be given to grantees after they are licensed.

How will grantees receive the grant funds?

Grantees will receive either a check or direct deposit. Grantees must provide the Massachusetts Treasurer’s Office with a signed W-9 form in order to receive funds.

What are the criteria and restrictions for how I can use the grant funds?

• Grantees can spend funds on activities that will prepare them for becoming licensed. This includes training, software, purchasing equipment, upgrading the childcare environment, etc.

• Must become licensed within one year to receive grant funds but no deadline on how long to spend grant funds.

Are my family and I eligible to participate in this initiative together?

Only one individual per household will be able to participate in the Childcare Startup Grant.

What if I am unable to be licensed as a childcare provider? Do I still receive the second phase of funding?

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide the full grant amount to those who do not become licensed.

Who can I reach out to for additional questions or concerns?

For further questions, please contact us at empowerment@tre.state.ma.us

How were the targeted cities determined?

Using data from the Center for American Progress’ 2018 childcare desert map, which highlights areas where there is a level of adequate or scarce supply of local childcare providers across the United States, six geographical areas were identified as having a low supply of childcare accessibility across Massachusetts. Other data points considered include population under age 5, median family income, percent of children with all parents in the labor force, maternal labor force participation, and racial/ethnic composition. With this data and the expert advice of Citizens, we chose Lynn and Springfield, Massachusetts as the targeted cities for this grant.

Will this grant count as income? 

Yes. Grantees will be asked to complete a W-9 form in order to receive the grant. This may impact benefit eligibility. Please contact empowerment@tre.state.ma.us if you have any questions. 

Is this program affiliated with the Department of Early Education and Care? 

This is a program of the Office of the State Treasurer and Receiver General. EEC is not responsible for the selection of the grantees. EEC may be involved in training components of the initiative and is available to answer any questions applicants may have regarding the licensure process. 

Veterans Services Commissioner Santiago to Serve as Grand Marshal of the 2022 Puerto Rican Parade

 Veterans Services Commissioner Santiago to Serve as Grand Marshal of the 2022 Puerto Rican Parade

BOSTON, Massachusetts -  The City of Boston’s Department of Veterans Services announced today that Commissioner Robert Santiago will serve as the Grand Marshal for the return of Boston’s Puerto Rican Parade. The 55th Puerto Rican Festival and Parade is returning to Playstead Park at Franklin Park on Sunday, July 31, after being canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.   Commissioner Santiago is Boston’s first Puerto Rican Commissioner of Veterans Services, and also the first openly gay Commissioner. 

 “The Puerto Rican Festival and Parade is a beloved, vibrant tradition for Boston, and I’m excited to see Commissioner Santiago lead the parade for its return,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I encourage people from all across Boston and beyond to come out for this celebration, and look forward to the festivities.”

“My mom taught me what it means to be Puerto Rican through her pride, actions, and deeds and because of her I am very grateful for my Puerto Rican heritage, it’s who I am.  I’m so proud to serve as Grand Marshal of this year’s parade,” said Commissioner Santiago.  “The Festival and Parade hold a special place in my heart.  I’ve attended this wonderful event since I first arrived in Boston as a crew member of USS CONSTITUTION, and I’m looking forward to another great year!”

On Sunday, July 31 at 12:00 p.m., the parade will proceed from Cedar St. and Columbus Ave to Franklin Park.  The parade is the culmination of the Puerto Rican Festival, which is projected to draw more than 90,000 people over three days.  The Festival includes performances by local and international artists, Puerto Rican food, local arts and crafts, and many more activities for all ages.  For more information about the Puerto Rican festival and parade please visit https://www.puertoricanfestivalofma.org/

“We are thrilled to have Commissioner Santiago as our Grand Marshal!  He’s been involved since day one, and as a fellow Boricua, we know he’s as passionate about this event as we are,” said Edwin Alicea, President of the Puerto Rican Festival “We’re excited for a great parade on the 31st!”

麻州政府撥款320萬元資助六地方疏浚項目

 

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $3.2 Million for Local Dredging Projects to Enhance Maritime Economy   Construction-ready projects support commercial fishing and boating industries in six coastal communities   CHATHAM – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced $3.2 million in grants to six dredging projects through the Massachusetts Dredging Program, established to promote the strength and sustainability of the Commonwealth’s coastal harbors through support of saltwater dredging. The Dredging Program awards grants on a competitive basis, with a focus on shovel-ready projects that contribute to the economic vitality, recreational value, public safety, and resilience of coastal harbors. Today’s announcement was made at the Chatham Harbormaster Building in Stage Harbor.   “Our administration remains committed to ensuring the strength and capacity of the Commonwealth’s coastal harbors by providing targeted resources to support saltwater dredging,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Today we are pleased to commit $3.2 million to help six communities deepen berths or navigational channels, preserving and expanding an immense range of commercial and recreational uses along the Massachusetts coastline.” “As chair of the Seaport Economic Council, I’ve been proud to collaborate with municipal officials, legislators, and industry leaders from the Commonwealth’s 78 coastal communities on ways to support and improve our waterfronts,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “The Massachusetts Dredging Program provides key funding to help these communities complete shovel-ready dredging projects for the long-term success of our coastal harbors.”   The Massachusetts Dredging Program is administered by the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development and financed through capital funds authorized under the 2018 Economic Development Bond Bill. Applications for the 2022 grant round were evaluated in collaboration with staff at the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) and the Seaport Economic Council.   “Working waterfronts comprise the backbone of our maritime economy, so it is essential our coastal communities have the resources they need to maintain and improve their harbors for the benefit of commercial fishermen and other harbor-dependent businesses,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “The grants we’re announcing today will support thousands of moorings and dockage slips across six communities as well as navigation for hundreds of commercial vessels.” "Up and down our coast, dredging projects have proven necessary for economic development yet difficult for cities and towns to afford on their own," said Undersecretary of Community Development Ashley Stolba. "As of today, the Massachusetts Dredging Program has directed more than $19 million in state resources and leveraged another $25 million in matching funds to advance critical public dredging projects along our shores."   Today’s grants will support the removal of an estimated 188,000 cubic yards of harbor material, deepening berths or navigational channels in six communities. In 2020, over 38 million pounds of commercial seafood was landed in these communities, generating more than $30 million for the Massachusetts economy. These projects will expand or preserve the use of more than 3,000 moorings and dockage slips, and navigation for more than 450 commercial vessels. Approximately one third of this material will be beneficially reused for the nourishment of public beaches. "The maintenance of navigable harbors is absolutely essential in seaside towns where countless residents' livelihoods rely on access to the ocean," said State Senator Julian Cyr. "Chatham, Dennis, Harwich, Truro, and Wellfleet will all benefit immensely from this funding that will be deployed to dredge entrance channels, inlets, and anchorages leading to key harbors. By ensuring harbor accessibility, these grants will support Cape Cod’s blue economy and allow for safe recreational use of our waters." “State dredging grants are critically important for the communities on the outer and lower Cape. These harbors are critical to our economy, whether to support the fishing industry, recreational boating, or commercial charter boats. Dredged harbors and channels are also a matter of public safety. When there is a problem on the water and our first responders are called, they need to be able to act swiftly, they cannot wait for the tide,” said State Representative Sarah Peake. “I want to thank the Baker-Polito Administration for establishing this program and for awarding grants to Chatham, Harwich, Truro, and Wellfleet totaling $3,073,000.” “Chatham is once again pleased to receive an award from the Massachusetts Dredging Program,” said Chatham Town Manager Jill R. Goldsmith, ICMA-CM. “Stage Harbor is Chatham’s deep-water port supporting commercial fish off-loading, hundreds of local and transient recreational boaters, and Coast Guard and Harbormaster search and rescue assets. Stage Harbor supports the local and regional blue economies, and today’s grant will keep our harbor safe and accessible.” With this latest round of grants, since 2019, the Massachusetts Dredging Program has awarded more than $19 million for 28 public dredging projects, tapping into more than $25 million in matching funds. Projects have expanded or preserved the use of more than 8,000 moorings and dockage slips, and navigation for more than 900 commercial vessels. Projects also supported the livelihoods of more than 75 commercial boatyards, marinas, and other harbor-dependent businesses. An estimated one third of all dredged material was beneficially reused for the nourishment of public beaches. An additional 10 grants, totaling almost $3.6 million, were awarded through a pilot round in 2018.   All Massachusetts coastal municipalities are eligible to apply to the Dredging Program. A minimum 50% non-state match is required for any application to be considered. Learn more at mass.gov/massachusetts-dredging-program.   Massachusetts Dredging Program Grant Recipients Town of Chatham, $500,000 The Town of Chatham will dredge an estimated 30,000 cubic yards of sand from the Stage Harbor entrance channel. Dredging will preserve all-tide navigation in the harbor, which operates as the southern hub of the community’s maritime economy and provides a secondary offloading location for the largest fishing fleet on Cape Cod and the third-largest fleet in Massachusetts. Stage Harbor is home to three private marinas, more than 50 commercial fishing vessels, and nearly 1,300 moorings and dockage slips. Almost $17.5 million in commercial seafood was landed town-wide in Chatham in 2020. Town of Dennis, $87,000 The Town of Dennis will dredge an estimated 15,000 cubic yards of sand from the Sesuit Harbor entrance channel. Dredging will preserve all-tide navigation for a wide range of recreational and commercial users, including more than 40 commercial and for-hire fishing boats. Sesuit Harbor is home to a public and private marina as well as two public boat ramps with parking for more than 200 vehicles. Collectively, the marinas serve more than 350 vessels.  Town of Harwich, $48,000 The Town of Harwich will remove an estimated 8,000 cubic yards of sand from the Allen Harbor entrance channel. Dredging will preserve all-tide navigation for commercial and recreational users as well as three search and rescue assets. Allen Harbor hosts six commercial fishing boats and is home to a private marina and more than 160 moorings and dockage slips. More than $5.5 million in commercial seafood was landed town-wide in Harwich in 2020. City of Newburyport, $40,000 The City of Newburyport will remove approximately 500 cubic yards of material between the federal entrance channel and north jetty of Newburyport Harbor. Current conditions make navigation hazardous during low tides and rough seas and have led to several serious boating accidents in recent years. This project will build on more than $7 million in federal dredging planned for fall 2022. Newburyport Harbor comprises the mouth of the Merrimack River and is home to more than 1,000 moorings and dockage slips, more than 100 for-hire fishing boats, and a state boat ramp with parking for 130 vehicles. Town of Truro, $25,000 The Town of Truro will remove an estimated 5,000 cubic yards of sand from the inlet and approach channels of Pamet Harbor. Shoaling conditions make navigation hazardous during low tides and are exacerbated annually by coastal storms. Dredging will restore all-tide navigation in the harbor, supporting a variety of commercial and recreational users, including lobster boats. More than $500,000 in lobster catch was reported town-wide in Truro in 2019. Pamet Harbor is Truro’s only harbor and provides access to 73 moorings, more than 20 acres of shellfish farms, and a state boat ramp with parking for 30 trailers. Town of Wellfleet, $2.5 Million The Town of Wellfleet will remove an estimated 130,000 cubic yards of material from the South Anchorage in Wellfleet Harbor. Current conditions limit access to the anchorage to only a few hours either side of high tide, impacting up to 315 commercial and recreational vessels. Dredging will restore all-tide access to the area while also improving water quality for shellfish propagation. In 2020, Wellfleet Harbor was the number three shell fishing port in Massachusetts, supporting more than 90 private growers, more than 260 acres of shellfish farms, and more than $5.5 million in commercial landings. This project marks the final phase of a comprehensive dredging effort in Wellfleet Harbor, which has included $7.3 million in local and federal dredging since 2017.

波士頓市長吳弭簽行政命令改區域規劃法 為托兒照顧爭取經費

MAYOR WU ISSUES EXECUTIVE ORDER TO STRENGTHEN CHILD CARE ZONING REGULATIONS

BOSTON - Tuesday, July 26, 2022 - Building on earlier efforts to expand access to high quality child care options throughout the City, Mayor Michelle Wu today signed an Executive Order on Inclusion of Daycare Facilities (IDF) . For more than 30 years, IDF zoning regulations have required certain large developments to build child care programs on-site or support the creation of off-site child care programs. The Order makes these zoning requirements more transparent and predictable, providing a stable funding source for the City’s Office of Early Childhood to expand high-quality child care programs.  “These investments will fund a wide range of programs across the City so every family in every neighborhood has access to safe, reliable, high quality care. Together with our Office of Early Childhood and the Boston Planning and Development Agency, we are ensuring more programs meet the needs of Boston’s working parents and families,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “We look forward to continuing to work with the development community, residents, advocates, and community members to ensure the benefits of growth in Boston are shared equitably across our city so we can all thrive.” IDF regulations apply to 14 downtown zoning districts and generally apply to developments over either 100,000 or 150,000 square feet. Under the existing rules, developers may fulfill their obligations by creating on-site child care programs or causing programs to be created elsewhere in the City. This language has been interpreted as contributing to a fund that supports and enhances child care in Boston. However, the amount of each child care contribution has been subject to negotiation, which creates an opaque process for developers to navigate and allows for inconsistencies in enforcement. Additionally, the original intention of IDF regulations–to create more on-site child care options for downtown workers–may not match families’ preferences for child care arrangements today or meet the high demand for child care in underserved neighborhoods.  Mayor Wu’s Executive Order on IDF establishes a clear formula for developers that are contributing to the child care fund instead of directly creating child care programs. This formula is based on a BPDA assessment of typical tenant improvement costs for childcare facilities and was validated by an external real estate finance consultant. There are approximately 3 million square feet of development currently under review which could generate upwards of $3.5 million to support and expand high-quality child care throughout Boston.  “The Mayor’s new Executive Order establishes a clear, transparent formula to allow the Boston Planning and Development Agency to work with the Office of Early Childhood and the development community to make sure child care obligations are met and to further leverage Boston’s strong real estate market for the benefit of Bostonians who need our help the most,” said Devin Quirk, BPDA Deputy Chief of of Development & Transformation. “This is exactly the clear, strategic direction the BPDA needs to provide on development decisions to help ensure a more equitable growth of our city.” “Our city is growing and changing, and the need for child care in neighborhoods does not necessarily align with the areas where builders are required to create childcare,” said Kristin McSwain, Director of the Office of Early Childhood. “This Executive Order gives us the flexibility to create high quality childcare where families and children need it most.” Last fall, the BPDA and the Mayor’s Office of Women’s Advancement partnered to support seven organizations with funds generated by the IDF. The seven grantees focused on expanding seats for infants, children from low-income families, and families who need care outside of traditional business hours.  The Executive Order is an initial step toward addressing the issues outlined by then-Councilor Wu and Councilor Breadon in 2021 and detailed in a 2020 report from Community Labor United.  “Child care is a public good. At farmer’s markets, libraries, and community events throughout Allston-Brighton, I hear directly from families and caregivers on the affordability and accessibility crisis of our childcare ecosystem. Although the City first passed the Inclusion of Day Care Facilities zoning provision over three decades ago, enforcement and compliance have remained inconsistent and requirements have not adapted to the growing crisis,” said Councilor Liz Breadon. “As chair of the Council’s Committee on Strong Women, Families, and Communities, I appreciate the administration’s initiative. I look forward to further collaborating to lower the threshold for IDF, incorporating affordability measures, expanding the geographic scope, increasing transparency and tracking of mitigation measures, and engaging directly with providers, because supporting daycare for working families with children is essential to the long term health of our City.”  The Office of Early Childhood will use the funds to expand high-quality childcare programs and services in high-need areas of Boston. This will include grants to providers, direct training, and technical assistance opportunities. Funds may also be used to retrofit existing child care facilities for energy efficiency and environmental justice, such as the installation of high-quality air filters.  The Executive Order requires the Office of Early Childhood to produce an annual report of pre-existing and new child care facilities created by IDF. The report will include the number and location of childcare seats created, the creation of reduced-fee seats, and funding for child care programming, as well as other measures to improve quality of child care programs and services in Boston. Based on the report, the Office of Early Childhood will create a publicly accessible list of child care facilities created under IDF. This Executive Order builds on Mayor Wu’s commitment to universal, affordable, high-quality early education and care in all settings for infants, toddlers, and all children under five. It also advances her commitment to creating more transparency and predictability in development, with clear and consistent rules to harness Boston’s economic growth for the benefit of Boston’s communities.