United Way of North Central Massachusetts Awards Over $300,000 to Support Local Youth Programs

The United Way of North Central Massachusetts (UWNCM) has awarded $307,800 in grants to 23 local agencies, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the well-being and development of young people across the region.

Provided through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) After School and Out-of-School Time (ASOST) Program and in partnership with the United Ways of Central and South Central Massachusetts, the funding supports a wide range of after-school and out-of-school initiatives that help youth learn, grow, and thrive beyond the classroom.

Funded projects include equine-assisted therapy programs that help youth build coping skills and resilience, as well as martial arts programs for low-income youth that foster confidence, discipline, and leadership.

“Every young person deserves access to safe, supportive spaces where they can explore their potential and build essential life skills,” said Judy Tomlinson, Director of Community Impact for the United Way of North Central Massachusetts. “Through the ASOST program, we’re proud to partner with organizations that are helping our youth thrive beyond the classroom.”

Through this partnership with DESE, UWNCM has distributed more than $1.8 million to local agencies over the past several years, including nonprofit organizations, public school systems, and municipalities. This latest round marks the tenth distribution and will fund 2026 school-year programs at agencies including High Ridge Harmony Farm in Westminster, which received support for Harmony with Horses.

Barbara Cudak, Owner and Founder of High Ridge Harmony Farm, says, “This grant from the United Way of North Central Massachusetts allows us to strengthen the mental and emotional well-being of local youth through our animal-assisted and nature-based programs. Together, we’re helping young people find peace, purpose, and belonging.”