Haverhill-based L’Arche Boston North was the big winner locally of Cummings Foundation’s generosity, securing $500,000 to further its mission of providing homes for life for those with intellectual disabilities.
L’Arche Boston North, established in 1983, was one of only 25 charities chosen to receive a larger amount to be used over 10 years. The remaining 125 nonprofits were awarded three-year grants of up to $300,000 each. The grant helps L’Arche Boston North “provide meaningful work, life-skills training and a pathway to independence to adults with intellectual disabilities in the greater Haverhill area through a food production- and community engagement-based social enterprise.”
For many, L’Arche Boston North is also known as the nonprofit that organizes the Longest Table every summer along the Rep. Brian S. Dempsey Boardwalk in downtown Haverhill.
Joyce and Bill Cummings established Cummings Foundation in 1986 and, over the years, gradually donated the large majority of Cummings Properties commercial property to the Foundation.
Nearby, in North Andover, Cummings Foundation’s $30 Million Grant Program also selected Community InRoads, $105,000; Dave McGillivray Finish Strong Foundation, $75,000; and Merrimack Valley Black and Brown Voices, $60,000.
In Lawrence, recipients were ACT Lawrence, $75,000; Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence, $333,330; Bread & Roses Community Kitchen, $750,000; Bread & Roses Housing, $100,000; Esperanza Academy, $500,000; Greater Lawrence Community Boating, $150,000; Integrated Center for Group Medical Visits, $135,000; and Suenos Basketball, $100,000.