Foundation for MetroWest Announces $519,000 In Year-End Grants
Foundation sets annual record with $1.9 million awarded to area nonprofits in 2019
(Natick, MA) December 18, 2019—Holding true to its mission of making a positive, lasting impact across the region, the Foundation for MetroWest, the only community foundation serving the 33 cities and towns of MetroWest, has awarded $519,000 to area nonprofits in its last round of funding this year. Of the 117 grants awarded, 76 support hunger-relief efforts, while the others help combat homelessness, support families, and strengthen environmental and cultural endeavors across the region. The grants bring the Foundation’s total awarded in 2019 to $1.9 million – the largest single year of giving in its 25-year history.
The Foundation supported a wide range of programs and projects in 2019, including visual and performing arts, career training, immigrant services, historic preservation, mental health counseling, literacy, environmental initiatives, and resources for the elderly and victims of domestic abuse. The Foundation has awarded nearly $19 million over the past quarter century to help create strong, vibrant communities for the 700,000 residents in its footprint.
“For 25 years, our donors have generously supported countless worthy causes, and our efforts reached new heights this year,” said Judith G. Salerno, executive director, Foundation for MetroWest. “Awarding these grants reminds us that there are stark disparities within our community that demand immediate attention. We’re deeply proud of the support we’ve provided to these groups meaningfully impacting our region, yet it’s important to remember that many organizations lack the necessary resources to serve our citizens.”
The Foundation reviewed nearly 200 grant applications in 2019, demonstrating the depth of the unmet need in the region. Many individuals and organizations are recognizing that there are dozens of deserving nonprofits still seeking funding. In that spirit, the Foundation’s board chair, president of Wellesley Investment Partners Louis Crosier, and his wife, Hope, have pledged a dollar-for-dollar match for any new donation or increase in a previous donation to its Annual Fund, up to $50,000.
“The persistent gap between MetroWest’s needs and resources should galvanize the community to redouble its philanthropic efforts in the new year,” said Susan Kavoogian, chair of the Foundation’s Distribution Committee. “Each year, we’re presented with an array of innovative ideas, projects and programs designed to improve our neighbors’ quality of life, and we strive to help as many as possible succeed. We’re entering 2020 with a renewed focus on our region’s challenges and commitment to supporting solutions.”
For a full list of this year’s grant receipts, visit the website. To learn more about how to make a lasting difference in the MetroWest region, click here.
About Foundation for MetroWest
Established in 1995, the Foundation for MetroWest is the only community foundation serving the 33 cities and towns in the region, encompassing 700,000 residents from Westborough to Waltham and Acton to Walpole. The Foundation promotes philanthropy across the area, helps donors maximize the impact of their local giving, serves as a resource for local nonprofits and enhances the quality of life for all our residents. The Foundation is supported by a wide range of businesses, individuals, community groups and other philanthropic organizations. Since inception, the Foundation has granted $19 million to its nonprofit partners and currently stewards more than $22 million in charitable assets for current needs and future impact. To learn more, please visit our about page or call 508-647-2260.
