Sponsors of Mass Save Open New Round of Applications

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BOSTON — The Sponsors of Mass Save launched the next round of applications for the Mass Save Community Education Grant, an initiative designed to increase engagement with local communities through energy efficiency education and literacy.
 
Since the initiative launched in 2022, the Sponsors have awarded more than $1 million in funding to 48 organizations across Massachusetts to raise awareness and advance equitable access to energy efficiency solutions that help customers reduce energy usage and bills. 
 
This year, for the first time, the Sponsors are accepting rolling admissions for the program, allowing eligible organizations to apply throughout the year. Submissions will be reviewed quarterly, and organizations selected will begin participating in the program following award notification and completion of onboarding, with funding to take place over a one-year grant period. 
 
Grant recipients will participate in a one-year program that includes an annual progress evaluation and collaboration with participating Mass Save Sponsors. Funded projects will focus on creating innovative strategies and initiatives to engage residents through energy efficiency education and literary efforts to help communities equitably reduce their energy burden and carbon footprint. While applications are open to all eligible organizations, priority will be given to projects serving Designated Equity Communities, with a particular focus on renters, landlords, English-isolated customers, K–12 student organizations, and income-eligible individuals. 
 
Selected grant recipients may receive: 
  • Funding ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 per year, depending on project proposals (awarded in two cycles) to support project costs 
  • Mass Save branded collateral to assist in marketing and outreach efforts 
  • Assistance planning local events  
  • Access to a utility company account manager to help maximize energy efficiency opportunities in municipal buildings 
To apply for the grant, interested organizations should fill out the form here and review the eligibility requirements. 
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18 Degrees Event Celebrates Reunified Families

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — For many families involved with the Department of Children and Families, the first feeling is often fear of their child being removed from the home.
 
In reality, its goal is the opposite.
 
Last week, families, attorneys, social workers, and agency staff gathered at the 18 Degrees Family Resource Center to honor four families who overcame obstacles, such as addiction, successfully navigated the system, and were ultimately reunited with their children.
 
According to the event flyer, since 2010, the child welfare community has recognized June as Family Unification Month, formerly Family Reunification Month, to honor families working to strengthen and reunify their families, as well as the advocates who support them and help prevent family separation.
 
Speaking at the podium, some parents reflected on the negative perceptions they once had of DCF – views that changed as they confronted their struggles, persevered, and worked with the agency to access support and become better parents.
 
The setting of the celebration reflected the theme of new beginnings, as the name 18 Degrees symbolizes the height of the sun on a new day, which is filled with new opportunities and possibilities, said Stephanie Steed, 18 Degrees president and CEO. 
 
"It is where the change from darkness to light happens, and all those things are just really symbolic and really a part of everyone's process," she said. 
 
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