MAYOR WU APPOINTS HENRY SANTANA AS DIRECTOR OF NEW OFFICE OF CIVIC ORGANIZING

MAYOR WU APPOINTS HENRY SANTANA AS DIRECTOR OF NEW OFFICE OF CIVIC ORGANIZING Grace Burke to serve as Project and Digital Manager in the Office of Civic Organizing

BOSTON - Friday, April 15, 2022- Mayor Michelle Wu today announced Henry Santana will serve as Director of the new Office of Civic Organizing (OCO). The OCO will foster collaborative partnerships and programs that encourage Boston residents to participate in proactive community engagement, awareness, and service in Boston’s neighborhoods. The office will work to reduce barriers and expand opportunities for Boston residents to be active residents in their communities.  “A fundamental part of our recovery must be growing community connectivity,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “This new Office of Civic Organizing will mobilize residents to get involved and shape how we support our communities. I know Henry Santana will use his passion for Boston and building community to grow activism across our neighborhoods.” The Office of Civic Organizing will oversee the Love Your Block program, the City Hall On the Go Truck, and various community service and beautification projects. The new Office will support and hold other City offices accountable for how they are engaging with residents and building a framework for the needs of Boston’s individual neighborhoods. As the inaugural Director of the Office of Civic Organizing, Santana will work with various departments to ensure community engagement and policy-making is being communicated to residents through proactive engagement. Santana was born in Bani, Dominican Republic and moved to Boston as a child. “The addition of the Office of Civic Organizing to the Community Engagement Cabinet builds on our commitment to empower residents to get involved with their local government through civic engagement,'' said Chief of Community Engagement Brianna Millor. “I am excited to welcome Henry Santana to the Cabinet and look forward to working with him to bring City Hall into our neighborhoods and drive engagement on the constituency level.”  “I am beyond honored and excited to serve under Mayor Wu’s administration and lead the Office of Civic Organizing,'' said Director of the Office of Civic Organizing Henry Santana. “I am ready to bring the skills and values I have developed in my previous roles and showcase them under this administration. I look forward to connecting residents to the City government in new and creative ways.”  Santana previously worked as an Associate at MFS Investment Management. Before that, he served as the Field Director for Councilor Kenzie Bok’s 2019 campaign and as her office’s Director of Operations and Mission Hill and Fenway Liaison following her election. Santana attended Lasell University where he graduated with a B.A. in History and Political Science.  Grace Burke will serve under Santana as the Project and Digital Manager in the Office of Civic Organizing. In this role, she will plan community events, organize civic engagement programs, and manage digital content. Burke grew up in the greater Boston area and recently graduated from the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester where she earned an honors degree in political science. She previously served as a senior field fellow on the re-election campaign of Senator Ed Markey and as an associate at the Blue Lab Campaign Consulting Group in Boston.  “I am thrilled and immensely grateful to be joining Mayor Wu’s historic administration as a part of the new Office of Civic Organizing,'' said Project and Digital Manager Grace Burke. “I am excited to work together with community organizers to empower residents to be active in their neighborhoods and in the city governing process.“ The Office of Civic Organizing has launched the 2022 Love Your Block Mini-Grant Program as one of its first programs. The program provides up to $3,500 in funding to support clean-up and beautification projects. Organizations and individuals interested in participating can submit an application here to propose a community beautification project by Friday, June 10 at 5:00 p.m. In addition to the mini-grants, the Office of Civic Organizing will also offer residents the opportunity to partner with the City on year-round clean-up events and a tool lending program that will help residents complete their neighborhood revitalization projects. Residents can request support for a neighborhood clean up here.

Sonia Chang-Díaz statement on Massachusetts Senate climate bill

Sonia Chang-Díaz statement on Massachusetts Senate climate bill

Calls for more urgency in climate action from Beacon Hill

BOSTON, MA - State senator and gubernatorial candidate Sonia Chang-Díaz released the following statement in response to the debate and passage of An Act Driving Climate Policy Forward:

“If we’re serious about addressing climate change in Massachusetts, we need to do better. I voted in favor of today’s Senate bill to advance some meaningful provisions to combat the climate crisis. This bill is the boldest climate plan proposed at the state level this year — and we need to be honest: it’s still not adequate to the scale of the problem. It fails to invest a single new cent in electrifying or incentivizing public transportation and only scratches the surface of cutting building emissions.

“We can and we must act with more urgency. We have the resources to electrify the MBTA bus fleet by 2030, make all MBTA & RTA buses fare free, expand and electrify our rail systems, and create tens of thousands of jobs at the same time. And there’s no reason we need to stop at piloting renewable building codes as the Senate bill does, when we could be ramping up the transition to renewable buildings across the state. The only thing we’re missing is political courage. Fixing that starts with the Governor’s office.”

Chang-Díaz released her platform for a Green New Deal for Massachusetts in December, which includes a sweeping and rapid approach to combating the climate crisis at the state level. The plan includes benchmarks to meet all of Massachusetts’ electricity needs with 100% renewable, carbon-free energy by 2030l; eliminate all carbon emissions from new buildings by 2030 and transition existing buildings to become zero-carbon by 2045; and expand, electrify, and make fare-free public transit systems across the state, including establishing East-West rail and robust regional transit networks. 

The plan also details that the Chang-Díaz Administration will immediately remove fares on all MBTA and RTA buses in its first budget, halt the purchase of any new fossil fuel-powered buses, and produce and execute plans for full MBTA bus fleet electrification by 2030 and full electrification of the RTA system and Commuter Rail by 2040, with three Commuter Rail lines electrified within the first three years of her administration.

Chang-Díaz’s opponent in the Democratic race, Attorney General Maura Healey, has not released any plan to address the climate crisis.

About Sonia Chang-Díaz:

Sonia was elected the Commonwealth's first Latina & Asian-American State Senator in 2008 and quickly became a driving force behind many of the state’s biggest progressive reforms — including landmark $1.5 billion progressive education funding reforms, criminal justice reform, LGBT equal rights, and police reform and accountability. For more information about Sonia Chang-Díaz and her campaign for Governor, please visit www.soniachangdiaz.com.

波士頓市長吳弭指派JOSÉ F. MASSÓ為人民服務長

MAYOR WU APPOINTS JOSÉ F. MASSÓ CHIEF OF HUMAN SERVICES

“The Human Services Cabinet is fundamental to providing direct, necessary services and supports to all Bostonians,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “With José’s lifelong commitment to community-centered service, he brings critical leadership and focus as we continue to transform our City facilities and programs into hubs of opportunity and belonging for all Boston families.” “I am grateful to Mayor Wu for this exciting opportunity to serve the city I know and love. It is an honor and privilege to ensure the well-being of Boston residents, especially those with the greatest needs,” said incoming Chief of Human Services José F. Massó. “I will put my all into carrying on the legacy of community leaders before me, who have laid the foundation for transformational community work. We have an exciting administration focused on making sure city residents are able to do more than survive, that we are all able to thrive. I look forward to being a part of that team and to working with residents and community leaders to make this vision a reality.” Human Services represents one of the largest cabinets in the City, including the Age Strong Commission, Boston Centers for Youth & Families, Commission for People with Disabilities, Veterans Services, Youth Engagement and Employment, Returning Citizens, and newly joined by the Boston Public Library. The departments within the Cabinet prioritize delivering a more equitable city by ensuring that city services and opportunities for Boston residents are accessible and responsive to the needs of all. Along with external partners, departments enhance the life of Boston’s residents with meaningful programs and resources, deliver direct services, provide regulatory oversight, and build partnerships to help all of Boston’s residents thrive.  Massó is a non-profit leader, community organizer, and lifelong resident of Boston who has twenty-five years experience in building and leading large, complex mission-driven organizations. Most recently before joining the City of Boston, Massó served as the Co-Executive Director at United South End Settlements (USES), where he managed a large team, an annual budget and a portfolio of seven community-based programs. Under his leadership, USES supported children and families during the pandemic by offering learning pods for students and a food distribution program for families facing food insecurity.  Prior to rejoining United South End Settlements, Massó was the Executive Director of Child Development and Food Insecurity at the YMCA of Greater Boston, where he was responsible for overseeing afterschool programming and anti-hunger initiatives. Massó also held several positions at the Boston Public Health Commission, including managing a city-wide mayoral health initiative to promote healthy eating and physical activity. Early in his career, Massó served as a community organizer for Urban Edge, where he managed two weekly food pantries in Roxbury. He was able to convene a group of volunteers to beautify the existing food pantry by building food storage shelves, building benches for older participants to sit while waiting for their food, and painting the walls to create a more welcoming experience for participants. His focus on addressing food insecurity continues through his involvement as a board member of the Urban Farming Institute where he currently serves as Chair. Following his graduation from Boston Latin Academy, he attended Northeastern University. He later earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from University of Massachusetts, Boston. Massó resides in Hyde Park with his wife and two children. He enjoys cycling, swimming, table tennis and managing a small family ice cream truck business which he operates with his children. BOSTON - Thursday, April 14, 2022 - Mayor Michelle Wu today appointed José F. Massó as the new Chief of Human Services. The Chief of Human Services is charged with making Boston a more equitable city by ensuring that City services and opportunities for residents are accessible and responsive to the needs of all. The Chief of Human Services will lead the implementation of the Mayor’s human services agenda for Boston, overseeing key departments that provide services to city residents, and working in partnership with social service organizations and service providers across the city. Massó’s first day will be in early May. The Mayor made the announcement today at BCYF Menino in Roslindale.

麻州房屋及經濟發展廳撥款6300萬元資助15項計畫約建679戶出租單位

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $63 Million for Affordable Housing Production

 

15 projects in 14 communities will create or preserve close to 700 units of rental housing

 

GLOUCESTER – Thursday, April 14, 2022 – Today, Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy and Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Jennifer Maddox joined state and local officials in Gloucester to announce affordable housing awards for 15 projects located in 14 communities across the Commonwealth.  The awards will result in the creation or preservation of 697 units of rental housing with 479 units designated for low-income households and another 150 units designated for extremely low-income individuals or households often transitioning from homelessness.     Through the Department of Housing and Community Development, the Baker-Polito Administration awarded approximately $63 million in subsidy funding to the 15 projects.  DHCD also awarded federal and state low-income housing tax credits, which are expected to generate over $200 million in equity to support new construction and rehabilitation of existing housing.    “With this round of affordable housing awards, we continue to expand the Commonwealth’s portfolio of new housing units to meet the needs of households of all income levels,” said Governor Charlie Baker.  “As we continue to tackle the state’s housing crisis, these projects will result in meaningful progress toward our goal of enhancing access to safe, quality, and affordable housing across Massachusetts.”       “Our Administration has made an unyielding commitment to creating more affordable housing and with these awards, we can continue driving great projects forward,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito.  “Congratulations to all of today’s awardees and I look forward to continued success in our collective efforts to enhance access to affordable housing.”       “These projects are the result of key partners working together to produce needed new housing in Massachusetts and I’m excited we can provide important financial support to make these new units reality,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy.  “Affordable housing development is truly a team sport, and the cooperation and dedication to make these projects happen are incredible testaments to the strong affordable housing ecosystem in Massachusetts.”       “Today’s projects include a mix of new construction, historic rehabilitation, and transformative investments in our public housing stock. In Fitchburg and Springfield, we will see innovative, adaptive reuses of historic properties, and new construction will add vibrancy near the new Polar Park in Worcester,” said Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Jennifer Maddox. “We are incredibly proud to invest in projects that will invite new residents to communities, enhance neighborhoods, and ensure current residents can access stable, affordable housing. Here in Massachusetts, we have a strong network of affordable housing developers, funders, and advocates who have helped us bring thousands of new affordable units to the market over the last five years, and we look forward to continuing this work.”    In Gloucester, the YMCA of the North Shore will undertake a project to create 44 new senior units at the downtown location of the former YMCA. All of the housing units will be affordable for low and very low-income seniors and provide essential services to residents.    “Access to safe and affordable housing is a major priority for my administration and the residents of Gloucester,” said Mayor Greg Verga. “I am grateful for the partnership with the YMCA of the North Shore and the Department of Housing and Economic Development. The 71 Middle Street project will create high quality, affordable and accessible housing for our city’s seniors. This award will have a lasting impact on our community.”   “Thank you to Secretary Mike Kennealy and Undersecretary Maddox for coming to Cape Ann for this major announcement,” said Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante.  “The John J. Meany Senior Housing is an important project in the downtown fabric of Gloucester. Congratulations to the Cape Ann YMCA on this special project which affirms the value and worth of our families, veterans, and seniors.”   “We are incredibly grateful for this affordable housing award. It will support our transformational senior housing project in downtown Gloucester.  For more than 170 years, the Y has been committed to meeting the needs of the community and right now seniors in Gloucester need our help,” said YMCA of the North Shore President & CEO, Chris Lovasco. “More than half of our seniors are burdened by their housing cost and more than 400 seniors are currently on waitlists for existing senior housing. We know we can be part of the solution with our Middle Street location. This additional senior housing with specific units allocated for veterans will make a real difference in alleviating some of the housing issues we are facing in Gloucester. This project would not be possible without the support of the Office of Housing and Economic Development, we are thankful for their continued investment in our mission."    The Baker-Polito Administration has shown a deep commitment to increasing the production of housing across all income levels.     Since 2015, the Baker-Polito Administration has invested more than $1.4 billion in the affordable housing ecosystem, resulting in the production and preservation of more than 22,000 housing units, including over 19,000 affordable units across the Commonwealth. 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.     In 2021, Governor Baker signed economic development legislation titled An Act Enabling Partnerships for Growth that includes substantial new funding for affordable and climate-resilient housing, as well as targeted zoning reforms to advance new housing production.     Affordable Housing Awards    Mildred Hailey Building Phase 1A is one phase of a larger transit-oriented redevelopment initiative which will transform the massive campus formerly known as Bromley Heath in Jamaica Plain.  The sponsor is the non-profit The Community Builders, selected for the redevelopment initiative by the Boston Housing Authority.  DHCD will support Mildred Hailey Building Phase 1A with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The city of Boston and the BHA also are supporting the project with local resources.  Completion of Phase 1A will result in 100 total units.  Seventy-six units will be affordable to households earning less than 60 percent of the Area Median Income, with 17 units further restricted for households earning less than 30 percent of AMI, and in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. DHCD’s support for Mildred Hailey Building Phase 1A is in addition to committed funds for Phase 1B of this important redevelopment initiative and a $4 million MassWorks Award in 2021 to support street and utility improvements.     Rindge Commons Phase 1 is a new construction transit-oriented project located in Cambridge.  The sponsor is the non-profit Just-A-Start.  When completed, the project will offer 24 total units and retail space.  All 24 units will be reserved for households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with three units reserved for extremely low-income households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.  DHCD will provide federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds in support of Ridge Commons Phase 1.  The city of Cambridge will support the project with local funding.  The sponsor intends to build the project to Passive House standards.    Chester Commons is an occupied 15-unit rehabilitation project located in Chester’s town center.  The sponsor is the non-profit Hilltown Community Development Corporation.  DHCD will provide subsidy funds to support the historic rehabilitation of Chester Commons, with an emphasis on accessibility for tenants with disabilities.  All 15 units will be reserved for individuals or small households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with four units further restricted for extremely low-income individuals or small households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.    Fitchburg Arts Community is a historic adaptive re-use project located in Fitchburg.  The non-profit sponsor is NewVue Communities.  DHCD is supporting the project, located in proximity to the Fitchburg Art Museum, with federal and state housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The city of Fitchburg will provide its own funds in support of Fitchburg Arts Community.  When complete, the project will offer 68 total units.  Forty-seven units will be affordable to households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with 14 units further restricted for households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.    The John J. Meany Affordable Housing development located in Gloucester is a new construction project specifically for senior residents. The sponsor is the YMCA of the North Shore.  DHCD is supporting the project with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The city of Gloucester will provide funds of its own in support of the project.  When the John J. Meany Affordable Housing is complete, the project will offer 44 total units with support services.  All 44 units will be affordable to seniors earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with eight units further restricted for seniors earning less than 30 percent of AMI.      Library Commons 2 is a 41-unit scattered site project located near downtown Holyoke.  The sponsor is the non-profit Way Finders, Inc.  DHCD will support the project with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The city of Holyoke will also provide funds in support of Library Commons 2.  When complete, the project will offer 41 total units, all of which will be restricted for families earning less than 60 percent of AMI.  Eighteen units will be further restricted for extremely low-income families earning less than 30 percent of AMI.     Island Parkside Phase 2 is a new construction project located in Lawrence.  The sponsor is the non-profit Lawrence Community Works, which will develop and own 40 rental units built to Passive House standards.  SquashBusters will secure financing to develop the ground floor of Island Parkside Phase 2 as squash courts and ancillary space.  DHCD is supporting the 40 rental units with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The city of Lawrence also will support Island Parkside Phase 2 with funds of its own.  All 40 rental units will be restricted for households earning less than 60 percent of AMI.  Eight units will be further restricted for extremely low-income households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.  The sponsor intends to build the project to Passive House standards.  Construction is just beginning on nearby Island Parkside Phase 1, also sponsored by LCW and supported by DHCD. In addition, EOHED provided a 2020 MassWorks award to support the development.    950 Falmouth Road is a new construction project located in Mashpee.  The sponsor is the nonprofit Preservation of Affordable Housing.  DHCD will support the project with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The town of Mashpee will support the project with funds of its own.  When completed, 950 Falmouth Road will offer 39 total units.  All 39 units will be affordable to households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with six units further restricted for households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.  The sponsor intends to build the project to Passive House standards.    117 Union Street is a new construction project located in downtown New Bedford.  The sponsor is the New Bedford Development Corporation.  DHCD will support the project with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The city of New Bedford will support the project with funds of its own.  When construction on 117 Union Street is finished, the project will offer 45 total units.  Thirty-two units will be reserved for households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with eight units further restricted for households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.      Knox II is a historic adaptive re-use project located in Springfield.  The sponsor is Gordon Pulsifer of First Resource Development. DHCD will support Knox II with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The city of Springfield will support the project with funds of its own.  When construction on the long-vacant building is completed, Knox II will offer 41 total units.  All 41 units will be affordable to households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with six units further restricted for households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.  In addition to supporting Knox II, DHCD awarded funds in 2021 to Knox I, which is expected to begin construction.    Van Der Heyden is a historic rehabilitation project located in Springfield.  The sponsor is Valley Management, Inc.  DHCD will support the project with federal and state low-income housing tax credits.  The city of Springfield will support the project with funds of its own.  When construction is completed, Van Der Heyden will offer 45 fully rehabilitated units, all of which will be affordable to households earning less than 60 percent of AMI.  Eighteen units will be further restricted for households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.    Littleton Drive Family is a new construction project located in Wareham.  The sponsor is Pennrose.  DHCD will support the project with federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The town of Wareham will provide funds of its own in support of the project.  When completed, Littleton Drive Family will offer 49 total units.  Thirty-nine units will be affordable to households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with eight units further restricted for households earning less than 30 percent of AMI.  Littleton Drive Family will be constructed adjacent to Littleton Drive Senior, which received awards from DHCD in a previous rental funding competition.     Maple Woods is a new construction project for seniors located in Wenham.  The sponsor is the non-profit Harborlight Community Partners.  DHCD will support the project with federal and state low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  When completed, Maple Woods -- zoned through Chapter 40B -- will offer 45 total units with services for seniors.  All 45 units will be affordable to seniors earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with eight units further restricted for seniors earning less than 30 percent of AMI.    Helena Crocker Residences is a new construction project for seniors located in Westford.  The sponsor is Stratford Capital Group working in partnership with the non-profit CHOICE of Chelmsford.  DHCD will support the project with federal low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds.  The town of Westford will support the project with funds of its own.  When completed, Helena Crocker Residences will offer 18 total units with services for seniors.  All 18 units will be affordable to seniors earning less than 60 percent of AMI.  Sixteen units will be further restricted for extremely low-income seniors earning less than 30 percent of AMI.    153 Green Street is a new construction project located in Worcester.  The sponsor is Boston Capital.  The project is located in close proximity to Worcester’s new Polar Park and will contribute significantly to the ongoing revitalization of the neighborhood.  DHCD will support 153 Green Street with federal and state low-income tax credits and subsidy funds.  The city of Worcester will support 153 Green Street with funds of its own.  When completed, the project will offer 83 total units.  All 83 units will be affordable to households earning less than 60 percent of AMI, with 14 units further restricted for households earning less than 30 percent of AMI, and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness.

麻州政府撥款2250萬元資助食物生產商

 Baker-Polito Administration Awards $22.5 Million to Strengthen the Massachusetts Food Supply System

 

BOSTON – The Baker-Polito Administration today announced $22.5 million in funding to food producers across the Commonwealth, continuing ongoing efforts to address food insecurity issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. During an event today at the Worcester Regional Food Hub, Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Kathleen Theoharides, and Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner John Lebeaux joined with U.S. Senator Ed Markey and Congressman Jim McGovern to announce the funding of 147 total projects through the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program. Grants from the program, which was created to ensure individuals and families have equitable access to healthy, local food products, will directly benefit people in every region of the state.

 

“Through the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program, our Administration has been able to foster stronger partnerships with foodbanks, pantries, farms and other organizations throughout the Commonwealth to meet the demand of so many living with food insecurity,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Importantly, this $22.5 million in funding will go towards impactful projects that will increase operations of our food producers and suppliers and better serve the individuals who truly need their assistance.”

 

“Ensuring children, their families, and all individuals have access to healthy, local food products is critical, particularly as so many continue to be detrimentally impacted by the pandemic,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Our Administration is proud to work so closely with the Commonwealth’s farmers, food distributors, non-profit organizations, and others as we partner to strengthen the state’s food supply chains.”

 

“The Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program has become a catalyst for the Baker-Polito Administration in our efforts to make a more resilient food supply system,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “Since the program’s inception during the early months of the COVID-19 public health emergency, we have funded over 507 projects throughout Massachusetts, greatly aiding those in need.”

 

The Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program seeks to ensure local food producers are better connected to a robust and resilient food supply system in order to mitigate future food supply and distribution disruption issues. This year’s recipients of grant funding represent a variety of sectors, including farms, fisheries, schools, nonprofits, for profits, food pantries, municipalities, distributors/suppliers, and other entities. Additionally, during the event, US Senator Ed Markey and Congressman Jim McGovern announced $3 million in federal funds for the Worcester Regional Food Hub’s new facility at Union Station.

 

“The Worcester Regional Food Hub plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity in Massachusetts,” said Senator Ed Markey (D-Massachusetts). “I am proud to have helped secure $3 million in federal funding for the remodeling of the lower-level of Union Station to become the Foods Hub’s new permanent location. Worcester is the heart of the Commonwealth and Union Station is the heart of Worcester, making it the perfect location for this integral piece in the regional food system in central Massachusetts.”

 

“This is a huge day for Worcester. The $3,000,000 investment that Senator Markey and I secured for the Worcester Regional Food Hub is going to kick this project into high gear—bringing local farmers, entrepreneurs, and community partners together to bolster a more robust food system, promote healthy eating, strengthen sustainable agriculture, and fuel economic development throughout the region,” said Chairman Jim McGovern (D-Massachusetts). “In addition to the $1,000,000 in funding I helped secure for the Food Hub in the American Rescue Plan, and the major statewide investments being announced today by Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito, I am confident that we are building a more just, healthy, and sustainable commonwealth.”

 

The Baker-Polito Administration announced the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program in May 2020 as part of a $56 million investment to combat urgent food insecurity for many Massachusetts families and individuals as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program implements the recommendations of the Food Security Task Force, comprised of public and private members charged with ensuring food insecurity and food supply needs are addressed during the COVID-19 public health emergency, which was convened by the Massachusetts COVID-19 Command Center in response to increased demands for food assistance.

 

“The Baker-Polito Administration’s unprecedented commitment to building a more resilient, sustainable food system has helped Massachusetts agriculture invest in long-term and impactful solutions to address food security for our consumers,” said Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources Commissioner John Lebeaux. “With the latest round of funding for the Food Security Infrastructure Grant program, farms and producers will be able to update aging infrastructure while making improvements for their businesses to help ensure more residents have access to local, fresh products.”

 

“When the Food Security Task Force first conceived of the FSIG program, there was a nation-wide protein shortage, spiking food insecurity rates, and significant supply chain disruptions,” said State Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton). “Now, almost two years later, the Commonwealth’s food system infrastructure has been strengthened permanently, thanks in large part to FSIG grants. Because of FSIG investment in food system infrastructure, the Commonwealth will be able to produce and distribute more food, feed more people, and fight hunger and food insecurity now and for years to come. I thank my colleagues in the legislature for their steadfast commitment to funding this program and to fighting food insecurity and I offer heartfelt thanks to everyone at EEA and MDAR who work every day to make this program more and more successful.”

 

“Food insecurity is a complex problem existing at the nexus of economic opportunity, transportation, regional planning, environmental sustainability, and of course, COVID-19,” said State Senator Becca Rausch (D-Needham). “Far too many Bay Staters are struggling to keep food on the table through these difficult economic times. As my colleagues and I continue to assist constituents with food access, it is critical that we also work systemically and equitably to bolster our Commonwealth’s food supply chains to promote the well-being of Massachusetts’ children and families.”

 

“The Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program is a tremendously valuable investment in our local food system and a critical component in increasing the supply of healthy food to our residents in need,” said State Representative Hannah Kane (R-Shrewsbury). “While the Program was developed in response to the initial urgent challenges of lack of access and supply of food during the pandemic, the overwhelming, ongoing demand and measurable impact clearly illustrates the necessity of continued funding. I am grateful to the Baker-Polito Administration for their strong partnership in addressing food insecurity and supporting local producers.”

 

“The Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program is a great investment by the Commonwealth in cities and towns facing food insecurity like Worcester,” said Worcester Regional Food Hub Director Shon Rainford. “The capital grant we received from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs will help tremendously in advancing this important opportunity to connect Worcester families with accessible, local, and healthy food by bringing together the region’s food hub with the region’s transportation hub.”

 

In the first year of the program, awardees have been able to make local, fresh food production more efficient and accessible, lower the production cost, and increase distributors' ability to partner with SNAP, EBT, and other organizations. The awardees for this round of grants include:

 

• Christopher Grant DBA Grant Family Farm (Essex, MA): $135,824
• The Little Black Cow Dairy LLC (Westminster, MA): $9,484
• Lisa T. Corp (Gloucester, MA): $69,908
• Boston Sword and Tuna (Boston, MA): $420,491
• Cape Seafoods Inc. (Gloucester, MA): $482,257
• A.P. Fish Company, Inc. (Worcester, MA): $279,841
• Aquacultural Research Corporation (Dennis, MA): $391,670
• The Gray House, Inc. (Springfield, MA):  $17,383
• Crimson & Clover Farm (Florence, MA): $325,000
• Norwood Public Schools Food Service Department (Norwood, MA): $27,099
• ZNK FISHERIES, INC. (Plymouth, MA): $24,250
• Carver Public Schools (Carver, MA): $14,690
• Boat Santa Rita II Inc (Peabody, MA): $80,575
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South (Taunton, MA): $119,956
• Four Corner's Farm (Worthington, MA) $3,500
• Northborough-Southborough Regional School District (Southborough, MA): $18,595
• Seeds of Solidarity Education Center (Orange, MA): $8,314
• Honey Pot Produce Co. Inc. (Hadley, MA): $78,713
• Stillmans Greenhouse & Farm Stand, Inc (New Braintree, MA): $79,384
• The Farm School (Athol, MA): $111,927
• Heart Beets Farm (Berkley, MA): $1,500
• Roots Rising (Pittsfield, MA): $430,219
• Tremont Fisheries LLC (Lakeville, MA): $376,100
• Waltham Boys & Girls Club (Waltham, MA): $40,905
• Littleton Community Farm (Littleton, MA): $26,585
• Regional Environmental Council (Worcester, MA): $73,958
• Brookfield Farm (Amherst, MA): $39,840
• F/V Underwing (Kingston, MA): $120,995
• Clover Hill Farm, LLP (Gilbertville, MA): $46,614
• Cultivating Solutions LLC dba Winter Moon Roots (Hadley, MA): $175,123
• Elliot Farm LLC (Lakeville, MA): $211,323
• Bellingham Farmstand & Community Garden (Bellingham, MA): $22,755
• BFI/WHA Terraponics Program (Worcester, MA): $371,929
• Milton Public Schools (Milton, MA): $11,927
• Merrimack Valley Food Bank (Lowell, MA): $8,200
• Miss Emma Lobster & Crab LLC (New Bedford, MA): $60,426
• Atlas Farm LLC (Deerfield, MA): $453,906
• Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield (Westfield, MA): $169,008
• PACE, Inc. (New Bedford, MA): $79,383
• Blackstone Millville Regional School District (Blackstone, MA): $55,024
• Arcadian Farms, Inc. (Holliston, MA): $34,893
• Backyard Growers (Gloucester): $48,282
• Brockton Public Schools (Brockton, MA): $240,193
• Berkshire Grown, Inc. (Great Barrington): $12,517
• Woven Roots Farm (Tyringham): $249,687
• Berkshire Wildflower Honey LLC dba Mill River Farm (Great Barrington): $68,700
• Epiphany School (Dorchester): $243,418
• Full Well Farm LLC (Adams): $72,678
• Grow in Revere, Food Hub (Revere, MA): $99,734
• D.A. Smiarowski Farms (Sunderland, MA): $28,000
• Letts Trucking Inc.  - FV Addy Rose is in the fishing industry (Fairhaven, MA): $196,698
• Greenfield Public Schools - School Nutrition Department (Greenfield, MA): $146,332
• Tony's Seafood Inc. (Seekonk, MA): $495,636
• Truro Community Kitchen (North Truro, MA): $37,853
• Plainville Farm (Hadley, MA): $33,837
• Salem Food and Nutrition Services (Salem, MA): $149,509
• Massachusetts Military Support Foundation (Buzzards Bay, MA):   $246,390
• The Urban Food Iniative d/b/a Daily Table (Dorchester, MA): $499,068
• Eva's Garden (South Dartmouth, MA): $79,890
• Chicopee Public Schools Food Service Department (Chicopee, MA): $482,836
• Olsen Farm (Lanesborough, MA): $18,082
• Wulf Fish Wholesale, LLC (Boston, MA): $104,324
• Red Fire Farm (Montague, MA): $500,000
• Simple Gifts Farm, LLC (Amherst, MA): $75,517
• Mill City Grows (Lowell, MA): $17,694
• North Attleborough School Department (North Attleborough, MA): $43,709
• Royal Crest Farm, LLC. (Spencer, MA): $105,632
• Hart Farm (Conway, MA): $16,583
• Fairfields Dairy Farm LLC (Williamstown): $490,002
• Grandeur Enterprises, LLC D.B.A.: Ferullo's Seafood (Boston, MA): $489,874
• Coastal Foodshed, Inc. (New Bedford, MA): $100,689
• Overlook Food Awareness Resource of Massachusetts (FARM), Inc. (Rutland, MA): $18,062
• City of Holyoke/Holyoke Public Schools (Holyoke, MA): $500,000
• Gaining Ground (Concord, MA): $27,291
• Legit Fish Inc. (Boston, MA): $245,000
• Sawyer Farm (Worthington, MA): $61,856
• Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School (Fitchburg, MA): $176,600
• Harper's Farm & Garden LLC (Lancaster, MA): $38,981
• Abundance Farm (Northampton, MA):$291,505
• Calamari Fisheries Inc (Boston, MA): $114,733
• Just Roots, Inc. (Greenfield, MA): $53,096
• Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen's Alliance, Inc. (Chatham, MA): $21,191
• Boston Smoked Fish Co. (Boston, MA): $63,595
• Newton Community Farm, Inc. (Newton, MA): $22,893
• MetroWest YMCA (Framingham, MA): $58,474
• Fisherman's Wharf Gloucester (Gloucester, MA): $153,120
• Wellwood Farm (Barre, MA): $28,850
• World Farmers (Lancaster, MA): $408,001
• Sidehill Farm LLC (Hawley, MA): $63,791
• Round the Bend Farm (South Dartmouth, MA): $62,519
• Mapleline Farm, LLC (Hadley, MA): $174,891
• Pip & Anchor, LLC (Nantucket, MA): $287,575
• Worcester Regional Strategic Opportunities Foundation, Inc (Worcester, MA): $494,085
• Freedom Food Farm, LLC (Raynham, MA): $108,709
• Beaus Seafood Company Inc. (Boston, MA): $86,709
• Yellow Stonehouse Farm (Westfield, MA): $32,255
• Farmer Dave's LLC (Dracut, MA): $341,727
• Fruit Fair Supermarket (Chicopee, MA): $497,701
• All Farmers (Springfield, MA): $246,476
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (Springfield, MA): $68,985
• The Neighborhood Farm, LLC (Westport, MA): $308,551
• Mesivta of Greater Boston (Brighton, MA): $148,784
• Sunny's Seafood Inc (Boston, MA): $76,500
• Greenagers, Inc. (South Egremont, MA): $75,557
• Adams Farm Slaughterhouse LLC (AFS) (Athol, MA): $202,840
• Friends of Sholan Farms dba Sholan Farms (Leominster, MA): $64,979
• Diemand Egg Farm, Inc. (Wendell, MA): $189,576
• Sweet Brook Beef Company (Williamstown, MA): $30,000
• The Kitchen Garden, LLC (Sunderland, MA): $60,205
• Blue Stream Shellfish LLC (Ware, MA): $205,672
• CommonWealth Kitchen (Boston, MA): $500,000
• Holiday Brook Farm LLC (Dalton, MA): $46,352
• Chatham Harvesters Cooperative (Chatham, MA): $31,675
• Upswing Farm LLC (Pepperell, MA): $112,330
• McKinstry Market Garden INC. (Chicopee, MA): $76,228
• COMMUNITY FARMS OUTREACH d/b/a WALTHAM FIELDS COMMUNITY FARM (Waltham, MA): $111,461
• Siena Farms, LLC (Sudbury, MA): $302,381
• Lexington Community Farm (Lexington, MA): $106,521
• City Fresh Foods, Inc. (Roxbury, MA): $487,000
• Bay-Breeze Inc d.b.a Westport Sea Farms (Westport, MA): $39,200
• Sustainable CAPE Center for Agriculture Preservation and Education (Truro, MA): $57,592
• Cape Ann Fresh Catch Inc (Gloucester, MA): $149,321
• Lyonsville Farm (Charlemont, MA): $167,400
• Reed Farm, LLC (Greenfield, MA): $500,000
• Nourishing the North Shore (Newburyport, MA): $11,920
• Greenfield Farmer's Market (Greenfield, MA): $862
• Go Fresh Mobile Market (Springfield, MA): $112,176
• Newhall Fields Community Farm, Inc. (Peabody, MA): $12,747
• Nubian United Benevolent International Association (Boston, MA): $114,951
• Centre Street Food Pantry (Newton, MA): $61,815
• Shellfish Broker LLC (South Chatham, MA): $26,588
• Flying Carrot Farm (Dartmouth, MA): $66,389
• Fishing Vessel Mystic (Hanover, MA): $152,240
• Stone Soup LLC dba Langwater Farm (Easton, MA): $153,179
• Agric Organics (Wilbraham, MA): $45,627
• Ian Allen Farms (Sheffield, MA): $137,329
• Ascia Foods, LLC (Roxbury, MA): $435,887
• Hager Bros. Farm LLC. ( Colrain, MA): $57,397
• The Dwelling Place (Woburn, MA): $8,000
• North Plain Farm (Housatonic, MA): $39,963
• Red Shirt Farm (Lanesborough, MA): $77,591
• Henry M & Edward A Parsons dba Mayval Farm (Westhampton, MA): $181,922
• Wellspring Harvest Corporation (Indian Orchard, MA): $42,379
• Martha's Vineyard Public Schools (Oak Bluffs, MA): $223,823
• DaSilva Farm (Rehoboth, MA): $12,214
• The Common Good Project (Dorchester, MA): $151,000
• Westward Orchards Inc (Harvard, MA): $168,802

 

Since 2020, the Baker-Polito Administration has awarded over $58 million in grants to 507 projects across the Commonwealth through the grant program. For more information regarding the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program, please visit the program’s webpage.