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The funds will help support 42 programs addressing childhood development and economic prosperity.

BUW Announces More Than $1M in Community Investments

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PITTSFIELD — Berkshire United Way is putting the $1,116,000 it raised last year into community grant investments to support 42 programs addressing issues related to early child development, youth development and economic prosperity across Berkshire County.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic made it more challenging for organizations to support children and families, as basic needs like food, child care and health services became a priority. BUW recognized this and responded, but is now focusing on recovery and remains committed to investing in quality programs that help children and families succeed.
 
"Families are the foundation of our community. When families are safe, healthy and financially secure, they are more likely to reach the goals they have for themselves and their children," said Candace Winkler, BUW CEO and president. "Over 3,500 individuals and businesses contributed to Berkshire United Way's campaign this year. These donations will have the greatest impact to make lasting, positive change in the Berkshires."
 
Grantees are selected through a review process. This year, 32 board and community members dedicated 480 hours of volunteer service, and through new coordination efforts, 24 new volunteers signed up. Grant awards were selected based on alignment with BUW's focus areas, program design, two-generation approach, target population and ability to measure outcomes.
 
BUW's main intention with these grants is to support family well-being and to address gaps in services in the community. Programs will generate a whole-family, integrated approach that focuses on educational advancement and economic mobility.
 
Even with more than a $1 million for investment, requests for funding exceeded the amount available by $500,000. To increase investments in quality, impactful programs, contributions are being accepted for BUW's "Here For Good" fundraising campaign, which starts July 1. Find out more about BUW's impact or donate here.
 
 

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Possible Measles Exposure at Boston, Logan

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed Wednesday that an out-of-state adult visitor who spent time in Boston and Westborough earlier this month was diagnosed with measles and was present in a number of locations.
 
This could have resulted in other people being exposed to measles virus.
 
The visitor arrived at Logan International Airport on American Airlines flight 2384 from Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, on Dec. 11 at 2:39 p.m. They stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough in Westborough and departed the state on Dec. 12 via Logan at 9:19 p.m. on JetBlue flight 117 to Las Vegas.
 
DPH is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local partners to identify and notify those who may have been exposed to measles from this individual.
 
"Measles is a highly contagious, airborne disease, which has increased significantly in the United States because of the unfortunate decrease in vaccination rates. It is also a preventable disease," said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein. "This current situation serves as an important reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in protecting our communities. While Massachusetts has not had a measles case this year, 2025 saw the highest number of nationwide cases in more than a decade — nearly 2,000 in 44 jurisdictions, and sadly, three deaths. 
 
"Fifteen years ago, measles had been considered eliminated in the United States, but that tremendous progress is at risk. Vaccines are one of the most important public health interventions ever — they are safe, effective, and lifesaving."
 
Measles is very contagious. However, the risk to most people in Massachusetts is low because the vaccination rate in the state is high. People who are not immune and visited any of the locations on the following dates and times may be at risk for developing measles.
 
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