SAUGUS — The Cultural Council has announced the recipients of its Fiscal Year 25 local cultural grants, which are “awarded to local organizations and individuals who work diligently to enhance the cultural vibrancy” of the community.
The selection process occurred in 2024, based on the council’s published priorities and guidelines.
Priority went to applicants throughout the town, including organizations, individuals, and organizers. Priority also went to programs and events that would take place in town.
“We encourage programs and events to be free, inclusive, and accessible to all members in the community,” the council said. “These grants are a testament to our commitment to supporting cultural arts programs and events that not only showcase diversity but also enhance the overall well-being of Saugus residents.”
According to its website, the cultural art disciplines are broadly defined as the visual arts, education, dance, drama, interpretive science, the environment, music, public art, and wellness.
One of these grants was awarded to Helping Hands of Breakheart Reservation, Inc. for the Breakheart Fall Festival. The council described the festival as “a beloved event that brings the community together to celebrate the harvest season with entertainment, food, and fun for all ages”.
Another went to Asian Cultural Education workshops, which is a series of workshops aimed at fostering understanding and appreciation of Asian cultural traditions and practices.
The library received multiple grants for different programs including: Classical Music @ the Saugus Public Library ($3,000), Styling with Vintage and Thrifted Items ($300), Jerry Pallotta VELC School Visit ($1,420), Eyes on Owls ($755), Hydrangea Painting ($325), Pop Up Art School Early Release Art Programming: Clay Melted Snowman ($375), and Book Making with Kelly Slater ($387).
Other recipients include the Boys & Girls Club of Stoneham, Hammersmith Quilters Guild, KevTech Services, MUSIC Dance.edu, Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild, Windy Pham, John P. Porcino, Jennifer Powell, The Delvena Theater Company, Veterans Memorial School, Young Men’s Christian Association of Metro North, and Nick Zaino.
For a comprehensive list of recipients, project titles, and amounts, visit massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/saugus/
