BOSTON— MassHousing has awarded $150,000 in grants to support arts and cultural initiatives across seven affordable housing communities, aiming to strengthen community ties and enhance quality of life for approximately 1,400 residents statewide.
The funding is part of MassHousing’s Building Community Through Arts and Culture Program, an initiative designed to bring creative expression into shared living spaces while fostering a sense of belonging and long-term housing stability.
“MassHousing is pleased to invest in these various artistic and cultural endeavors, which will all add vibrancy, foster a sense of belonging, and strengthen rental communities,” said Chrystal Kornegay.
Two Tracks for Creative Community Development
The program offered grants of up to $40,000 per property through two distinct tracks. One supports temporary or semi-permanent installations—such as murals, planters, and resident-designed seating areas—that activate shared spaces. The second focuses on larger, permanent design enhancements, including redesigned courtyards, improved lighting, and wayfinding art.
Participating housing communities will collaborate with local artists and organizations to design and implement the projects, ensuring that residents play a central role in shaping their environments.
Communities Receiving Funding
The grants were distributed to properties across Massachusetts, including:
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St. Stephen’s Tower – $8,500 for an art workshop and display
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Highland Glen Apartments – $13,700 for a resident gallery installation
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Bedford Towers – $40,000 to revitalize outdoor gathering spaces, including a basketball court and murals
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Market Mill Apartments – $30,000 for indoor murals and community art programming
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Hawthorne Lofts – $20,000 for an auditorium mural
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North Village – $8,000 for utility wraps, outdoor space improvements, and murals
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The Wellington – $30,000 for murals, landscaping, and seating areas
Broad Partnerships Across the State
The initiative includes collaboration with several property management and community development organizations, including WinnCompanies, Peabody Properties, Beacon Communities, and the North Shore Community Development Coalition, along with the Punto Urban Art Museum.
Officials say the program reflects a growing recognition that arts and culture play a vital role in community development, particularly in affordable housing settings. By integrating creative projects into everyday spaces, the initiative aims to encourage resident engagement while building stronger, more connected neighborhoods across the Commonwealth.
