麻州乾旱程度升至三級

 Massachusetts Continues to Experience Drought Conditions

Northeast and Central Regions Elevated to Critical Drought Status as Watersheds are Further Impacted

 

 BOSTON — With the majority of the state currently experiencing elevated temperatures and forecasts predicting little to no meaningful precipitation, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Beth Card today declared a Level 3-Critical Drought in the Northeast and Central Regions of the state. The Southeast, and Connecticut River Valley Regions will remain at a Level 2-Significant Drought, and the Cape Cod Region will join the Islands and Western Regions at Level 1-Mild Drought. As outlined in the Massachusetts Drought Management Plan, a Level-3 Critical Drought and a Level 2-Significant Drought calls for the convening of an inter-agency Mission Group, which has already been convened, to more closely coordinate on drought assessments, impacts and response within the government. Additionally, a Level 1-Mild Drought recommends detailed monitoring of drought conditions, close coordination among state and federal agencies, and technical outreach and assistance to the affected municipalities.

 

“As the state endures high temperatures and little precipitation, now more than ever it is critical that we all practice water conservation methods across the Commonwealth,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Beth Card. “Minimizing water use now, especially in areas like the Millers and Nashua River watersheds, will allow local water supply systems and natural habitats to rebound more quickly, and will also ensure water resources are available for essential needs, such as drinking water and fire protection.”

 

“As the hot temperatures continue and drought conditions worsen, residents can assist by following any local water restrictions for their area and minimizing indoor and outdoor water usage,” said Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Acting Director Dawn Brantley. “Given the dry conditions, residents are urged to be cautious around BBQs, campfires and other outdoor activities to prevent brush and forest fires.”

 

Since the start of July 2022, hydrological conditions have further declined across Massachusetts, and the entire state is under experiencing drought conditions. Areas of higher concern are the Millers River Watershed in the Central Region and the Nashua River Watershed in the Northeast and Central Regions. The two watersheds are particularly impacted due to greater precipitation deficits and impacts to streamflow, and higher extent of evapotranspiration. The Month-to-date (MTD) average temperatures are near normal across Massachusetts, but temperature highs are above normal, especially across the eastern part of the state with many days near or above 90 degrees. Additionally, precipitation deficits were most significant in the eastern and north central parts of the state. Currently, streamflow has been seriously impacted with large deficits and near record low flows in some locations.

 

Massachusetts is also experiencing dry streambeds, ponding, and diminished extent of streams in many watersheds leading to lack of flow, increased turbidity, and increase in growth of plants and algae in the water. Furthermore, groundwater, which is a slow reacting index, is starting to be impacted in many regions. Fire activity has increased across the eastern half of the state as drought conditions have set in, and wildfires in remote areas with delayed response are now burning deep into the organic soil layers. Drought induced fire behavior can result in suppression challenges for fire resources and result in extended incidents so residents are asked to exercise caution while working with open flames.

 

Furthermore, farms have started to experience drought impacts on production acreage and are irrigating crops on a more consistent basis due to current precipitation deficits, high temperatures, and low soil moisture. Farms are maintaining current planting and harvest cycles and minimal impacts to seasonal yields are expected. However, this could change if drought conditions in the Commonwealth worsen over the coming weeks. Consumers are encouraged to continue to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables at local farm stands and retail stores throughout the Commonwealth.

 

It is important to note that the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) water supply system is not currently experiencing drought conditions, as defined within its individual plan. However, private wells, local streams, wetlands, vernal pools, and other water-dependent habitats located within MWRA-serviced areas will be impacted by drought conditions while water quality in ponds can deteriorate due to lowering of levels and stagnation.

 

Below are recommendations for communities and individuals living and working within a Level 3 – Critical Drought, Level 2 – Significant Drought and Level 1 – Mild Drought region, including those utilizing a private well. Residents and businesses are also asked to check with their local water system in case more stringent watering restrictions are in place.

 

For Regions in Level 3 – Critical Drought

Residents and Businesses:

• Minimize overall water use.
• Stop all non-essential outdoor watering.

Immediate Steps for Communities:

• Adopt and implement the state’s nonessential outdoor water use restrictions for drought; Level 3 restriction calls for a ban on all nonessential outdoor water use.
• Provide timely information on the drought and on water conservation tips to local residents and businesses.
• Enforce water use restrictions with increasingly stringent penalties.
• Strongly discourage or prohibit installation of new sod, seeding, and/or landscaping; washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washing; filling of swimming pools.
• Establish or enhance water-use reduction targets for all water users and identify top water users and conduct targeted outreach to help curb their use.
   

Short- and Medium-Term Steps for Communities:

• Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication.
• Implement or establish drought surcharge or seasonal water rates.
• Prepare to activate emergency inter-connections for water supply.
• Develop or refine your local drought management plan using guidance outlined in the state Drought Management Plan.

 

For Regions in Level 2 – Significant Drought

Residents and Businesses:

• Minimize overall water use;
• Limit outdoor watering to hand-held hoses or watering cans, to be used only after 5 p.m. or before 9 a.m.
• Follow local water use restrictions, if more stringent.

 

Immediate Steps for Communities:

• Adopt and implement the state’s nonessential outdoor water use restrictions for drought; Level 2 restriction calls for limiting outdoor watering to hand-held hoses or watering cans, to be used only after 5 p.m. or before 9 a.m. If local restrictions are more stringent, continue to keep them in place during the course of the drought.
• Limit or prohibit installation of new sod, seeding, and/or landscaping; watering during or within 48 hours after measurable rainfall; washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washing; filling of swimming pools.
• Establish water-use reduction targets for all water users and identify top water users and conduct targeted outreach to help curb their use.

 

Short- and Medium-Term Steps for Communities:

• Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication.
• Provide timely information to local residents and businesses.
• Implement or establish drought surcharge or seasonal water rates.
• Check emergency inter-connections for water supply.
• Develop or refine your local drought management plan using guidance outlined in the state Drought Management Plan.

 

For Regions in Level 1 – Mild Drought

Residents and Businesses:

• Toilets, faucets and showers are more than 60% of indoor use.  Make sure yours are WaterSense efficient.
• Limit outdoor watering to one day a week (only from 5:00 pm – 9:00 am), or less frequently if required by your water supplier

 

Immediate Steps for Communities:

• Adopt and implement the state’s nonessential outdoor water use restrictions for drought.
• Limit or prohibit installation of new sod, seeding, and/or landscaping; watering during or within 48 hours after measurable rainfall; washing of hard surfaces (sidewalks, patios, driveways, siding); personal vehicle or boat washing; filling of swimming pools.
• Establish water-use reduction targets for all water users and identify top water users and conduct targeted outreach to help curb their use.
   

Short- and Medium-Term Steps for Communities:

• Establish a year-round water conservation program that includes public education and communication.
• Provide timely information to local residents and businesses.
• Implement or establish drought surcharge or seasonal water rates.
• Check emergency inter-connections for water supply.

• Develop a local drought management plan using guidance outlined in the state Drought Management Plan.

 

Taking water conservation steps now will greatly help reduce water use to ensure essential needs, such as drinking water and fire protection, are being met, habitats have enough water to support their natural functions, and to sustain the Commonwealth’s water supplies in the long-term. Additionally, the Commonwealth will continue to monitor and assess current conditions and any associated environmental and agricultural impacts, coordinate any needed dissemination of information to the public, and help state, federal and local agencies prepare additional responses that may be needed in the future. Furthermore, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) will continue to provide technical assistance to communities on managing systems, including emergency connections and water supplies assistance.

 

“Between the lack of precipitation and the extreme heat, we are seeing conditions degrade quickly particularly in certain areas of the state,” said MassDEP Commissioner Martin Suuberg. “We strongly encourage all water users, including private well-owners, to take immediate steps to reduce their demands, and to follow recommendations and requirements outlined by your local public water supplier.”

 

The Drought Management Task Force will meet again on Monday, August 8, 2022, at 1:00PM. For further information on water conservation and what residents can do, please visit EEA’s drought page and water conservation page. To get the most up-to-date information on the drought indices, go to the state’s drought dashboard page.

波士頓僑教中心辦 iTaiwan 體驗營鼓勵僑青和在地社團及台灣加強聯繫

iTaiwan體驗營深入當代國際藝術苑，請謝茵介紹她開山闢地的故事。 (周菊子攝)

波士頓僑教中心主任潘昭榮 (右) 送紀念品給吳宗勳，感謝他做導覽。 (周菊子攝)

               (Boston Orange周菊子波士頓報導) 波士頓僑教中心7月15日舉辦「iTaiwan體驗營」，邀請12名積極參與僑社活動，有發展潛力的年輕人參加，向他們介紹iTaiwan窗口，科技部政策及方案，拜會波士頓僑團，藉以鼓勵僑青和僑居地及台灣建立更深聯繫。

慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處師姐許秀妃、黃素玲應波士頓僑教中心之邀，向iTaiwan體驗營
學員們介紹該機構著重個案拜訪，探訪老人院，發放食物，環保清潔等工作內容。

              「iTaiwan 體驗營」緣起於iTaiwan窗口。波士頓僑教中心主任潘昭榮當天說明，民國107年時，蔡英文總統訪問巴拉圭及貝里斯，8月12日過境美國洛杉磯時，和當地僑青座談「如何吸引青年回台工作及投資」，隨後指示僑委會做窗口，整合資訊、資源及機會，供海外僑胞查詢。波士頓僑教中心這次辦「Taiwan體驗營」，就是衍生自iTaiwan窗口，希望更多年輕人能藉此知道，僑委會有個iTaiwan窗口，為海外青年及僑民提供有關台灣的投資、就業，就學、生活等各種相關網頁及資訊，以及就業金卡，駕照互換等，其中許多內容同時有英文資訊。

波士頓經文處科技組楊明儀說明科技部重要政策及方案。

              潘昭榮主任還指出，「iTaiwan體驗營」還希望讓台灣青年進一步認識大波士頓內對台灣友善的傳統僑社，加強聯繫、合作。

謝茵欣喜表示見到iTaiwan體驗營學員來自台灣的年輕人，讓她有回家的感覺。 (周菊子攝)

              「iTaiwan體驗營」當天安排的活動包括請來自台灣，持有美國鋼琴技師執照 (RPT)的吳宗勳，在Acton鎮開山闢地創建「波士頓國際當代藝術苑 (YW Art Museum)的謝茵分享個人在美國闖天下故事；駐波士頓台北經濟文化辦事處科技組秘書楊明儀，以及波士頓僑教中心主任潘昭榮，還有慈濟基金會波士頓聯絡處的黃素玲、許秀妃，依序藉簡報分別說明科技部目前推動的重要方案，僑委會精心設計的「iTaiwan窗口」，波士頓慈濟的拜訪個案，老人院，發放食物及冬衣，急難救助，環保清掃，為牛頓市大冰箱提供補給等活動。

藍凡耘(右一)等年輕人仔細聆聽介紹。 (周菊子攝)

              紐英崙中華專業人員協會，波士頓台灣人生物科技協會，新英格蘭玉山科技協會，台灣僑民播客 (Podcast)等多個團體的約12人，當天驚訝獲悉吳宗勳任教，創辦於1879年的North Bennet St. School是一所包含書本裝訂，櫥櫃及傢俱，小提琴製作的木匠，鎖匠及安全科技，珠寶製作與修復，鋼琴調音等共9個科目，非常特別的美國最古老技職學校，更讚嘆謝茵和Viktor Lois創辦了國際當代藝術苑後，儘管手頭經費拮据，卻為理想勇往直前，在麻州Acton鎮大膽買下12英畝的採石場，經營出媲美新英格蘭地區最大的DeCordova石雕公園及博物館 (DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum) 。

                         活動結束時，iTaiwan 體驗營學員們都很感謝波士頓僑教中心舉辦這活動，紛紛表示收穫良多。

美國總統拜登、英國王子威廉今日 (7/20)在波士頓爭取環保光輝

英國威廉王子在推特上宣佈「地球儀獎」，今年12月來波士頓頒發。

           (Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓綜合報導) 波士頓今 (20) 天很火紅，既有美國總統拜登 (Joe Biden)為環保來到大波士頓，又傳出英國王子威廉 (William)夫婦選定波士頓，作為「地球儀 (Earthshot)獎」今年12月頒獎典禮的地點。

                「地球儀 (Earthshot)獎」是英國王子威廉和皇家基金會所創辦，強調要為氣候及環境變化找解決方案的獎項，發100萬英鎊 (約140萬美元)給5個領域中保護級重塑自然，恢復海洋，打造無廢物世界的創新及科學研發項目。該機構今早在推特上發佈視頻，由威廉王子親自揭露將來美國波士頓舉辦頒獎儀式的這消息。

                  一份官方聲明中，稱這獎項是由美國甘迺迪總統的登月計畫 (Moonshot)所啟發，是一項很有野心的全球性環保獎項。

                約翰甘迺迪圖書館基金會將和波士頓市長吳弭，以及波士頓市作為主辦活動的夥伴。這也將是該獎項的頒獎典禮第一次在美國舉行。

            在長14秒的這段視頻結束前，紅襪隊游擊手Xander Bogaerts穿著紅襪隊球衣，站在芬衛球場(Fenway Park)上說”我們會在波士頓這兒舉行”。

               12月的頒獎典禮，之前還是劍橋公爵的威廉王子和他太太Catherine會不會出席，目前還不確定，JFK圖書館基金會也說，白金漢宮還沒宣佈。

                凱薩琳甘迺迪大使在一份聲明中表示，今時今日，沒有甚麼比修理星期更重的的「登月計畫」，而且也沒有比波士頓更好的地方來重振「登月計畫」精神。在波士頓頒發「地球儀獎」是對約翰甘迺迪致最高敬意。

          在波士頓頒發「地球儀獎」的這消息，也正好是1969年7月20日人類登陸月球第53週年的正日。

          在5個類別中獲選入決賽的15人，會是那5個人得獎，將在波士頓宣佈。今年是這一獎項舉辦的第二年，該獎去年在倫敦舉行，受矚目程度有如頒發奧斯卡獎。

          根據紐約時報，去年贏得獎項的有推動全市糧食恢復政策的義大利米蘭，以及實施全國性的付款給人重塑森林，來翻轉森林消失狀況的哥斯大黎加 (Costa Rica)。

亞裔企業培訓及輔導計畫簡報賽訂8/23 在中華廣教學校舉行

 

       (Boston Orange) 華埠4機構合作的「亞裔企業培訓及輔導計畫 (Asian Business Training & Mentorship Program) 」，將於8月23日首次舉辦實體簡報賽，現有企業組的首獎5000元，第二名獎2500元，第三名獎1000元。新創企業組只有首獎，2500元。

最受觀眾歡迎獎500元。

比賽將於8月23日的晚上6到9點在中華廣教學校校址 (87 Tyler St., Boston) 舉行。比賽結束後，所有參賽者都可獲得和評審晤談15分鐘的機會。

亞裔企業培訓及輔導計畫創辦人Andy Goldberg表示，這場首次以實體方式舉行的簡報賽 (Pitch Contest) ，由華美福利會 (AACA)主辦，有華埠主街，華埠商會 (CBA)，中華廣教學校，以及波士頓市政府的經濟機會及包容辦公室協辦，將分現有企業，新創企業2個組別，預定有10嘉縣已經營中的企業，以及5家新創企業參加比賽。

代表麻州的聯邦參議員Edward Markey表示，他為能夠支持華美福利會的「亞裔企業培訓及輔導計畫」擴大辦理，感到驕傲。支持亞太裔經營的小企業，對終止亞太裔社區中的貧困，彌平族裔財富差距，在麻州打造多元蓬勃經濟，十分重要。他恭喜並祝福主辦及協辦機構。

                  波士頓市的經濟機會及包容長Segun Idowu表示，該辦公室致力藉由實施可持續的作法，修補經濟損害，協助建造世代財富，培養地方上有才華人士，以及創新構想，創造蓬勃及健康的鄰里，平等的採購策略，以及加強市政府和地方組織合作等，來使波士頓成為一個對打工家庭，企業家，企業及投資者來說，是一個經濟平等的全球模範。        

Asian Business Pitch Contest

Boston’s first in-person Asian business pitch contest

The Asian Business Training & Mentorship Program is holding Boston’s first in-person Asian business pitch contest in partnership with Chinatown Main Street, Chinatown Business Association, Kwong Kow Chinese School, and the City of Boston’s Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion. An expert panel of jurors will award prize money to the winners on existing business and new venture tracks. All contestants can have a 15-minute free consultative meeting with the jurors at the end of the contest. 

When:             August 23, 2022, 6:00-9:00pm

Where:            Kwong Kow Chinese School

                        87 Tyler Street, 2^nd fl.

What:              10 existing business, 5 new venture contestants

1^st place-$5,000, 2nd place-$2,500, 3^rd place-$1,000 on existing track

                        $2,500 for winner on new venture track

                        $500 to audience favorite 

“I’m proud to support the remarkable efforts of the Asian American Civic Association as they expand the Asian Business Training & Mentorship Program. Supporting AAPI-run small businesses is critical to ending poverty in AAPI communities, closing the racial wealth gap, and building a diverse, thriving economy in our Commonwealth. I congratulate the AACA, the City of Boston, and Kwong Kow Chinese School for putting on the Asian Business Pitch Contest, and I wish all participants the best of luck.” Senator Edward Markey 

The City of Boston’s Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion is dedicated to making Boston a global model of economic equity for working people, entrepreneurs, businesses, and investors by implementing sustainable practices that repair economic harm and help build generational wealth, fostering local talent and innovative ideas, creating thriving and healthy neighborhoods, establishing equitable procurement strategies, and strengthening the partnership between the City and local organizations.  

“The City of Boston is proud to partner with trusted community organizations to create pathways into business ownership that have the potential to build generational wealth. Whether launching an innovative new product or building a neighborhood small business, we are excited that this partnership will connect AAPI entrepreneurs in Boston with local support systems and resources to start and grow their business in our City.” Segun Idowu, Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion 

The Asian American Civic Association (AACA) provides education, occupational training, and social services to limited English speaking and economically disadvantaged people enabling them to achieve lasting economic self-sufficiency. AACA has served and advocated for their needs since 1967. Today AACA services clients from over 125 countries. 

Chinatown Main Street (CMS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to making Boston's Chinatown district a thriving, culturally vibrant, and successful commercial center for businesses and institutions. We strive to improve the quality of life for residents in the district and nearby communities. 

For over 105 years, Kwong Kow Chinese School (KCS) has been supporting Chinatown families by providing out-of-school time quality childcare and cultural education. Founded by the On Leong Tong Merchants Association who wanted to preserve Chinese Language and cultural heritage to overseas Chinese living in Chinatown and in nearby neighborhoods. Although Chinatown has evolved through the years, KKCS's mission has not changed and it has expanded its program to include homework assistance, scholastic test preparation, coding, and activity-based enrichment programs.  

Chinatown Business Association is a nonprofit (501c3) organization working to strengthen, promote and advocate the community businesses. To make the community the best place for all businesses and all people to thrive.

Gail 及Alfred Engelberg捐款1500萬元資助古根漢博物館教育項目

(Boston Orange 編譯) 位於紐約市的古根漢博物館 (Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum)今 (20) 日宣佈，Gail 及Alfred Engelberg夫婦和Engelberg基金會承諾捐款1500萬元資助該館的藝術教育項目。

Gail May Engelberg 是古根漢博物館董事會董事，也是古根漢基金教育委員會主席。過去25年來，她一直是古根漢博物館藝術教育的主要支持者，早前還資助設立教育副主任職位。

為誌記這一新捐贈，古根漢博物館佔地8200平方呎的教育空間將命名為「Gail May Engelberg藝術教育中心」。該中心內有較是，藝術工作室，以及劇院，還有可以進一步實現古根漢博物館為社區人士，博物館訪客，以及學生提供學習，參與，還有和彼此及藝術建立聯繫的機會。

古根漢博物館及基金主任Richard Armstrong表示，「我們很榮幸，古根漢教育中心將帶有Gail May Engelberg的名字。過去25年來，她是古根漢藝術教育的最前衛領導，她的支持及擁護真的是模範，使得古根漢能更創造更活潑極有意義的項目。

                    Gail May Engelberg說，「在我還是個年輕女孩時，我父母教我藝術及藝術教育的重要性，把我帶到紐約參觀古根漢。藝術從此成為我生命中的基本元素。我很榮幸能在提供教育機會上支持這偉大博物館的工作，我知道那將會豐富未來世代兒童、學生及家庭的生活。

Gail and Alfred Engelberg Commit $15 Million to Support Guggenheim Museum Education Programs

Education facilities to be named Gail May Engelberg Center for Arts Education and a formal dedication and naming ceremony will take place November 1, 2022.

(NEW YORK, NY—July 20, 2022) The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum announces that Gail and Alfred Engelberg and the Engelberg Foundation have committed $15 million to endow the museum’s arts education programs.

Gail May Engelberg is a member of the Guggenheim’s Board of Trustees and the Chair of the Education Committee of the Guggenheim Foundation. She has been a major supporter and advocate for arts education at the Guggenheim for a quarter of a century and previously endowed the position of Deputy Director of Education.

In recognition of this new gift, the Guggenheim Museum’s education space will be named the Gail May Engelberg Center for Arts Education. The 8,200-square-foot center includes classrooms, studio art spaces, and a theater and furthers the Guggenheim’s mission of offering learning opportunities for community members, museum visitors, and students to build engagement with and connection to the arts and each other.

Richard Armstrong, Director, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, commented, “We are honored that the Guggenheim’s education center will bear the name of Gail May Engelberg, who has been one of the most ardent leaders of arts education at the Guggenheim for the last 25 years. Gail’s support and advocacy are truly exemplary and have enabled the Guggenheim to create dynamic and meaningful programming.”

“My parents taught me the importance of the arts and arts education when I was a young girl and brought me to New York to visit the Guggenheim,” Engelberg said. “The arts have been an essential part of my life ever since. It is an honor to support the work of this great museum in providing educational opportunities that I know will enrich the lives of children, students, and families for generations to come.”

大波士頓商會宣佈向有色人種本地企業採購數額增長約一億元

Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Announces

Pacesetters Triple Spend with Local Businesses of Color

The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce’s Pacesetters initiative, a collective effort to use equitable procurement practices to close the racial wealth gap, is pleased to announce that Pacesetters increased their spend with local businesses of color by $99.4 million, a 222% increase year over year, and increased spend with statewide businesses of color by $23 million. Answering the call to action at the beginning of the most recent racial reckoning, Pacesetters utilized equitable best practices to achieve heightened levels of spend, especially at the local level where spend with businesses of color tripled.

 “The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce is proud of the Pacesetters’ meaningful investments during 2021, most notably increasing spend by almost $100 million with local businesses of color. This is the type of commitment – and action – that moves the needle to close the region’s racial wealth gap. The Massachusetts business community is leading the way into the future of commerce with transformative, collaborative, and inclusive partnerships, and the Chamber urges the entire business community to join us in prioritizing equity,” said James E. Rooney, President and CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. 

In 2021, 10% of Pacesetters local spend went to businesses of color, 5.2% of their state spend went to businesses of color, and 8.1% of national spend went to businesses of color. This substantial increase in spend marks a significant milestone as the Pacesetters move closer to achieving their goal:

10% statewide spend with businesses of color. 

Read the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce’s Pacesetters 2021 Data Report here. 

The Pacesetters initiative, a cornerstone of the Chamber’s Economic Inclusion portfolio, is leading commerce forward – creating and establishing an inclusive, diverse economy that champions businesses of color. Together, Pacesetters are leading the business community forward with best practices that elevate greater economic opportunity for Black and Brown communities.

麻州政府撥發300萬元補助9社會企業 羅爾市UTEC獨得100萬元

Baker-Polito Administration Announces $3 Million in Social Enterprise Capital Grant Program Awards to Nine Nonprofits New program invests in employment social enterprises that contribute to economic growth in low-income communities PEABODY – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced $3 million in grants to nine nonprofit organizations through the inaugural round of the Social Enterprise Capital Grant Program, which invests in employment social enterprises that contribute to economic growth in low-income communities. The grants will help the organizations buy or renovate buildings to be used by the social enterprise, as well as buy equipment. Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy joined Representative Thomas Walsh and Representative Sally Kerans at Northeast Arc’s ArcWorks in Peabody today to make the announcement. “Our administration is pleased to support social enterprises working to provide individuals of all backgrounds with the skills and economic opportunities they need to be successful,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Congratulations to the organizations receiving funding through the inaugural round of our Social Enterprise Capital Grant Program to expand both their reach and impact.” “While the social enterprises we’re funding today work with distinct communities in various regions of the Commonwealth, a common thread is their commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest through gainful employment,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “We’re proud to amplify these organizations’ important work by providing funding for facility and equipment purchases that will allow them to serve and support even more individuals.”   In its inaugural round, the Social Enterprise Capital Grant Program is designed to support employment social enterprises that sell goods and services while providing supportive services for individuals who face significant barriers to employment. For the purposes of this program, an employment social enterprise is defined as a discrete or embedded business venture operated by a mission-driven nonprofit organization with programming focused on hiring and assisting people who face barriers to employment. The organization must offer paid employment opportunities to low-income individuals, with priority to socially and economically disadvantaged populations who experience complex needs and barriers to employment that require intensive interventions. “I was glad to join state and local officials in Peabody to announce the inaugural round of Social Enterprise Capital Grant Program awards to nine impressive and impactful organizations,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “From providing on-the-job skills training for young people to ensuring meaningful job opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment, this funding will amplify the work of community-based organizations creating economic opportunities for the people of our Commonwealth.” “Northeast Arc has been operating social enterprises for nearly 60 years,” said Northeast Arc CEO & President Jo Ann Simons. “Social enterprises have allowed people with disabilities and autism to earn a paycheck while refining skills that assist them in finding employment in the community. The capital grant program is allowing us to provide much needed upgrades to our building and provide more opportunities to the people we support.” Awarded Projects Level Ground Mixed Martial Arts (Boston) – $60,000 Level Ground Mixed Martial Arts provides free and affordable martial arts, yoga, and general fitness services, as well as college access and career opportunities to Boston youth. The organization will use this grant to buy key equipment for its new 6,400-square-foot Fields Corner Training Center, expand services, and create four to six new jobs. More Than Words (Boston) – $186,000 More Than Words operates a used bookselling social enterprise as a vehicle for job training and empowerment, and during the pandemic launched a used clothing business line as well. The organization will use this grant to upgrade and expand its fleet of book-sourcing trucks from four to five and buy needed equipment to adapt its sourcing operation to accommodate clothing. College Bound Dorchester (Boston) – $40,000 College Bound Dorchester seeks to end systemic generational urban poverty and violence through education. The organization will use this grant to fund repairs, security upgrades, and equipment for its Log School building, where it provides all programing including its College Readiness Advisor (CRA)  Internship Social Enterprise Program, which helps gang-involved Boston residents become students and creates a pathway for them to become advisors and coaches to other gang-involved individuals. Roca (Chelsea) – $309,000 Roca works to disrupt incarceration, poverty, and racism by engaging young adults, police, and systems at the center of urban violence in relationships to address trauma, find hope, and drive change. The organization will use this grant to buy new trucks, caps, and equipment to expand its transitional employment work crews beyond pre-pandemic levels and support employment training and behavior change work with more than 350 young people across the Commonwealth. GAAMHA, Inc. (Gardner) – $450,000 GAAMHA, Inc.’s mission is to provide meaningful support, training, treatment, avenues to employment, and personalized opportunities to individuals with disabilities and substance use disorders, and to offer quality transportation services to the people who live in the communities it serves. The organization owns a social enterprise corporation, Coleman Assembly & Packaging, that provides employment opportunities for people with traditional barriers to employment; it will use this grant to improve the Gardner facility, including replacing windows and a portion of the roof, updating sprinkler heads and restrooms, and repairing and paving the driveway and parking lot. ServiceNet (Hatfield) – $595,000 ServiceNet will use this grant to renovate facilities at the agency’s Prospect Meadow Farm to provide a modern vocational training and commercial production facility for an innovative social enterprise employing 80 participants year-round with significant disabilities. Specifically, the grant will fund facility upgrades to transform and modernize an on-site 1970s residential property to commercial capacity, allowing for increased accessibility, improved lighting and plumbing, a commercial production kitchen and packaging center, a carpentry workshop, and training, meeting, and office spaces; the grant will also fund some commercial kitchen equipment and furnishings. This project will result in increased capacity through the creation of new workspaces, creating 10-12 new jobs for individuals with disabilities. UTEC (Lowell) – $1 million This grant will fund renovations to UTEC’s woodworking facility in downtown Lowell that will allow the organization to double the capacity of youth served in the program, including new heating and cooling systems, exterior renovations, a new roof, a new spray booth, and new lighting, flooring, and interior partitions. UTEC will also use this grant to build classroom space for socioemotional learning instruction and other education to complement the woodshop’s hands-on learning space. The expanded facility will allow UTEC to deliver on its mission by providing additional job training slots; space and capacity to expand the diversity of products made by UTEC youth; and resources for youth to attain higher-level industry skills aligned with the region’s advanced manufacturing workforce needs. Building Audacity (Lynn) – $260,000 Building Audacity’s “On the Grow” project includes a 1,100-square foot hydroponics growing center in Lynn, where youth learn how to grow hydroponically and become agricultural entrepreneurs, and a mobile pantry that makes regularly scheduled stops in low-income neighborhoods in Boston, Cambridge, Lynn, Lowell, and Lawrence. The organization will use this grant to buy two trucks and additional grow towers to increase the amount of produce it can grow and distribute. Northeast Arc (Peabody) – $100,000 Northeast Arc created the ArcWorks program in 2004 in response to a need expressed by families and caregivers for inclusive, structured opportunities in the arts for the individuals and communities it serves. This grant will fund the repair and renovation of the ArcWorks Community Art Center, home of the Northeast Arc’s art-based social enterprises, as well as the purchase of additional equipment to increase product lines and expand the number of underserved individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and/or Autism employed there.

麻州政府撥款3100萬元資助11個可負擔住宅項目

Baker-Polito Administration Awards $31 Million to 11 Affordable Housing Projects for Vulnerable Communities

Permanent Supportive Housing Program directs funding, tax credit allocations, and vouchers for the preservation and creation of more than 230 housing units and 200 shelter beds

WORCESTER – Yesterday, the Baker-Polito Administration awarded more than $31 million in direct subsidies, tax credits, and housing vouchers to support the development and preservation of 11 housing facilities in Massachusetts, including 237 permanent housing units and 200 shelter beds for families and individuals. Since 2015, the Permanent Supportive Housing Program has produced or preserved more than 3,500 permanent supportive housing units for families, individuals, veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.    “Building and preserving supportive housing is a critical part of ensuring a healthy housing market that meets the diverse needs of our Commonwealth,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “We are pleased to direct state and federal funds to bolster the pipeline of housing projects and provide stable housing options for all households.”     Lt. Governor Karyn Polito, Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy, and Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Jennifer Maddox joined Worcester Mayor Joseph M. Petty, Acting Worcester City Manager Eric Batista, representatives from The Community Builders and Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance, and local officials at the Aurora Apartments in Worcester to celebrate this year’s Permanent Supportive Housing Program awards round.     “These awards will provide vital housing resources in cities and towns across our state, and we are proud to support the creation of new shelter and permanent housing units this year,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “Here in Worcester, the redevelopment of the Aurora Apartments will ensure this building remains a vibrant part of our downtown and offers a unique resource to individuals struggling with housing stability. We are grateful to our partners across the Commonwealth for dedicating their expertise to our most vulnerable populations.”    Each year, the Department of Housing and Community Development works with the Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC) to distribute capital funds as well as project-based housing vouchers to pay for supportive services through a competitive process administered by the agency’s Supportive Housing for Vulnerable Populations program. These supportive services support veterans, older adults, persons with disabilities, individuals and families who have experienced homelessness, as well as unaccompanied youth. Specialized services may include child care, mental health services, job training, case management, and other services for vulnerable populations.     “In the midst of Massachusetts’ ongoing housing crisis, it is critical that we build and preserve permanent supportive housing that meets the needs of our most vulnerable residents,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. “Housing has been a key area of focus for the Baker-Polito Administration since day one, and we are continuing that commitment now by directing $31 million to support 11 housing projects from Springfield to Boston.”   “We have a housing shortage affecting every corner of our Commonwealth, but we also have an incredible opportunity to leverage growing momentum for housing production and immense new state and federal resources,” said Housing and Community Development Undersecretary Jennifer Maddox. “The Department of Housing and Community Development is committed to helping cities and towns plan for housing by providing technical assistance and funding to help projects move from an idea to new homes.”   “CEDAC is proud to collaborate with the Baker-Polito Administration and our non-profit housing partners on these new supportive housing developments, which come at a time of intense need as the Commonwealth faces an ongoing housing shortage that affects the most vulnerable members of our population,” said Roger Herzog, Executive Director of CEDAC. “We look forward to continuing our work with Undersecretary Jennifer Maddox and her team at the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) as we pursue our mission to increase housing accessibility for those in need.”     At the Aurora Apartments in Worcester, The Community Builders will undertake substantial renovations to all 85 micro-units, including restoration of historic elements, new heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, a new suite for on-site staff, security improvements, and a new community room. All units will be reserved for individuals making less than 60% of Area Median Income (AMI), and 30 will be reserved for extremely low-income individuals and those transitioning from homelessness. Open Sky Community Services will provide supportive services for residents.     “I want to thank Governor Baker and Lieutenant Governor Polito for their continued support of affordable housing projects here in Worcester, and across the Commonwealth,” said Mayor Joseph M. Petty. “We need more housing at every level of the affordable spectrum and these funds are going a long way to make that happen.”   “We are excited to celebrate this milestone and the continued public-private partnerships between the City of Worcester, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the development community to keep expanding our housing stock,” said Acting City Manager Eric D. Batista. “The City is pleased to provide $250,000 in HOME funds to help The Community Builders with this project at the Aurora. The renovation of these 85 units will provide needed improvements to the units and extend the affordability restriction for years to come. By working together, we’re helping meet the needs of our community, for all of our residents, and across all income levels.”   “This critical funding from DHCD will support our most vulnerable residents, some as they transition from foster care, access mental and behavioral healthcare, and pursue their own dreams,” said Andy Waxman, Regional Vice President of The Community Builders. “TCB is committed to providing stable housing and supportive services that make neighborhoods stronger.”    “With the housing crisis we are experiencing in Worcester especially for individuals, this award will increase the number of units available to our lowest income neighbors,” said Leah Bradley, Executive Director of Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance. “From March of 2021 to March of 2022, we have seen a 45% increase in the City in individuals experiencing homelessness. Community Builders and Open Sky are key partners in providing housing with wrap around services to help us address this growing concern.”  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 more than 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. In April, the Baker-Polito Administration filed a $3.5 economic development bill, including nearly $300 million in additional bond authorization for public housing and affordable rental housing development.   Award Recipients: 150 Pleasant Street (Attleboro): Nonprofit sponsor NeighborWorks Housing Solutions, working with Father Bills & Mainspring, Inc. (FBMS), will create 22 new supportive housing units for extremely low-income adults, as well as 18 new emergency shelter beds for homeless individuals. The completed project will include extensive services for residents. DHCD will support this project with subsidy funds. The City of Attleboro will also support the project with funds of its own, and the sponsor is involved in an ongoing fundraising campaign in support of 150 Pleasant Street. House of Hope Shelter (Attleboro): Nonprofit sponsor New Hope will offer shelter and services to individuals and families who have experienced domestic violence at a new shelter featuring 14 rooms, including accessible rooms, that will replace two existing, smaller shelters. New Hope will offer residents of the new shelter multiple support services, including therapeutic counseling and case management, as well as access to services available in the broader community. DHCD will support the House of Hope Shelter with subsidy funds. The City of Attleboro also will support the shelter with funds of its own. In addition, New Hope as secured almost $1.4 million in support for the project through extensive fundraising. Warren Street Housing (Boston): Nonprofit sponsor Commonwealth Land Trust will rehabilitate two buildings in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood that, when complete, will offer 26 single-room occupancy (SRO) units for homeless individuals earning less than 50% of area median income (AMI). Thirteen SROs will be further restricted for homeless individuals earning less than 30% of AMI. The sponsor will offer extensive support services to the residents of Warren Street Housing. DHCD will support the project with subsidy funds. The City of Boston also will support Warren Street Housing with funds of its own.  Manley Street Housing Resource Center (Brockton): Nonprofit sponsor Father Bill’s & Mainspring, Inc. (FBMS) is building the Manley Street Housing Resource Center that will offer 128 new shelter beds as well as an on-site health clinic and an expanded homeless service center. The organization also hopes to construct an addition to the resource center to create 32 SRO units for homeless individuals. Both the resource center and the proposed 32‑unit project are located less than one quarter-mile from The Roadway, a hotel that FBMS recently converted, with state assistance, to SROs with services for homeless individuals. DHCD is supporting the project with subsidy funds. The City of Brockton also is supporting the project with substantial funds of its own.  35 Harvey Street (Cambridge): This is an occupied rehabilitation project sponsored by the nonprofit Homeowner’s Rehab, Inc., working with CASCAP, Inc. When rehabilitation work is completed, the project will consist of 12 SRO units with individual bathrooms and kitchenettes. All 12 SROs will be restricted for individuals earning less than 50% of AMI, with 10 SROs further restricted for individuals earning less than 30% of AMI. The sponsor also will offer extensive services to the residents of 35 Harvey Street. DHCD will support the project with subsidy funds. The City of Cambridge also will support 35 Harvey Street with funds of its own.  Catalyst Housing (Lynn): This is a historic re-use project that will serve homeless and/or extremely low‑income individuals, sponsored by the nonprofit Harborlight Community Partners, Inc., working with The Haven Project, Inc. When construction is complete, the project will offer 24 studio units, with 23 units reserved for homeless individuals, including youth and young adults. The sponsor also will offer extensive support services to the new residents of Catalyst Housing. DHCD will support this project with low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Lynn also will support Catalyst Housing with funds of its own.  Lynn Emergency Shelter (Lynn): Nonprofit sponsor Lynn Shelter Association will rehab the Lynn Emergency Shelter that will offer 40 beds for homeless adults with extensive support services for residents. DHCD will support the project with subsidy funds. The City of Lynn will support the project with funds of its own, and the sponsor is engaged in an ongoing fundraising campaign in support of this important project. New Point Apartments (Salem): This is a historic preservation project consisting of three properties located in Salem’s Point neighborhood, sponsored by the nonprofit North Shore Community Development Corporation. When rehabilitation work is completed, the project will offer 18 total units. Seventeen units will be restricted for households earning less than 50% of AMI, with 10 units further restricted for households earning less than 30% of AMI. When units become vacant, the sponsor and management company will give preference on the project waitlist to homeless families. The sponsor also will provide support services to tenants living at New Point Apartments. DHCD will support the project with low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Salem also will support the project with funds of its own.  275 Chestnut Supportive Housing (Springfield): This is a new construction project located at the former YMCA building in downtown Springfield sponsored by the nonprofit Home City Development, Inc. When work is completed, the project will offer 29 SRO units for chronically homeless and extremely low-income individuals. The project sponsor will offer extensive support services to the new residents of 275 Chestnut, and residents will also have access to certain facilities available in the community. DHCD will support the project with low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Springfield also will support the project with funds of its own.  Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Community (Tewksbury): This is a new construction project sponsored by the nonprofit sponsor Soldier On, Inc. that, when completed, will offer 21 studio and one-bedroom units. All units will be restricted for veterans earning less than 80% of AMI, with 12 units further restricted for veterans earning less than 50% of AMI.  Six units will be reserved for veterans earning less than 30% of AMI.  When completed, the project will offer extensive support services for new residents. DHCD will support the project with subsidy funds. The Town of Tewksbury also will support the project with funds of its own.  Aurora Apartments Redevelopment (Worcester): Nonprofit sponsor The Community Builders (TCB) will rehabilitate the Aurora Apartments, which, when complete, will feature 85 studios for individuals earning less than 60% of AMI. Thirty studios will be reserved for individuals earning less than 30% of AMI and, in some cases, transitioning from homelessness. In addition to services available in the surrounding downtown neighborhood, the sponsor will offer on-site services to the residents of Aurora Apartments. DHCD will support the project – currently occupied – with low-income housing tax credits and subsidy funds. The City of Worcester also will provide funds of its own to support Aurora Apartments.  About CEDAC    CEDAC is a public-private community development financial institution that provides project financing and technical expertise for community-based and other non-profit organizations engaged in effective community development in Massachusetts. CEDAC’s work supports two key building blocks of community development: affordable housing and early care and education. CEDAC is also active in state and national housing preservation policy research and development and is widely recognized as a leader in the non-profit community development industry. For additional information on CEDAC and its current projects, please visit www.cedac.org.