At the end of last month the Massachusetts House of Representatives passed its $47.716 billion Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22) budget.
Within the state budget are several funding earmarks secured by Rep. Adrian Madaro that will continue to support local programs crucial to East Boston’s future.
“I am proud of the work that the House accomplished in this year’s budget to address the needs of Massachusetts residents during this difficult time,” said Madaro, who chairs the Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery. “We were able to secure much-needed funding for East Boston organizations that address housing, food security, mental health, and job training, enabling them to continue to provide these services to members of our community. As Chair of the Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery, I was also pleased to see vital new funding in the budget prioritizing behavioral health and substance use issues that have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic.”
Budget earmarks for Eastie include $75,000 for Maverick Landing Community Services (MLCS) and other local nonprofits to provide information and assistance on housing and eviction issues. The funding includes money for helping residents complete and submit housing assistance applications, through a housing support station in the East Boston community.
Another $75,000 has been earmarked for YouthConnect in the neighborhood to provide community-based mental health services to high-risk youth and their families residing in the neighborhood.
Madaro was able to increase the YouthConnect funding by $50,000.
“Too many youth in our community are exposed to harmful factors, whether at home, at school, or on the streets, including drugs, crime, and gang activity,” said Madaro.
There’s $50,000 for Eastie Farm to support the implementation of a Community Supported Agriculture Program and bring more Massachusetts-grown food to East Boston residents.
“This money aims to stimulate the local economy and help address food insecurity exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Madaro.
Madaro also secured $40,000 in funding for workforce development and educational programming for women and girls at Crossroads Family Shelter in Eastie.
“Through these programs, Crossroads is able to empower women with the resources and tools for their own advancement and future success,” said Madaro. “Programs like these represent important investments in our community.”
Constitution Beach is a popular destination in our community where people can enjoy the beach, run, walk, or utilize the athletic courts and fields. As a state property located between two residential neighborhoods in Eastie and directly across from a Logan Airport runway, security at the Beach is always a priority.
“Thanks to my amendment, the FY2021 budget ensures that state police patrols at Constitution Beach continue to be fully funded,” said Madaro.
The earmark includes $25,000 to support public safety at the beach.