SPRINGFIELD — Families and individuals in the region facing economic hardships caused by the pandemic will be able to seek relief through new grant programs that will soon be established.
The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, which serves Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties, was notified last week that it will receive $904,796 from the state to support people who are struggling with food security, child care and transportation, and with paying their housing and utility bills.
“We are honored to partner with the state to continue to address the COVID-related needs in our three counties,” Ellen Leuchs, vice president for philanthropic services, wrote in an email. “Those needs are growing and this funding will be invaluable.”
Leuchs said the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts will develop grant-making plans in the coming weeks and ensure that aid gets out to those who need it quickly and effectively.
The money is part of $10 million for 14 organizations announced last week by the Baker-Polito Administration.
The resources complement the Eviction Diversion Initiative and other administration programs that improve vital safety nets, Undersecretary of Housing and Community Development Jennifer Maddox said in a statement.
“We are pleased to award these grants to regional and local organizations to help achieve goals such as keeping people in their homes, providing nourishing food, and supporting remote work and school,” Maddox said.
The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts’ grant program for COVID-19 relief is administered by the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development and the Department of Housing and Community Development.
Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.