The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts has awarded nearly $85,000 in 2026 Environmental Preservation & Animal Welfare grants to nine local organizations working to protect land, waterways, wildlife, and companion animals. The funding supports projects ranging from land conservation and watershed education to mobile veterinary care and habitat restoration across the region.

CFNCM Awards Nearly $85,000 in Grants to Strengthen Environmental Conservation and Animal Welfare Across North Central Massachusetts

The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts (CFNCM) has announced nearly $85,000 in 2026 Environmental Preservation & Animal Welfare (EPAW) grants, supporting nine local organizations working to safeguard the region’s natural landscapes, waterways, wildlife, and companion animals.

From preserving hundreds of acres of forest and farmland to delivering life-saving veterinary services this year’s grants highlight the wide-ranging efforts of nonprofits dedicated to strengthening both ecological health and animal well-being across North Central Massachusetts.

The EPAW Grant Program is designed to preserve, restore, and expand public access to the region’s natural environment while also promoting the humane treatment of animals through education, advocacy, and essential services.

“These grants reflect the deep connection our communities have to the land and to the animals that share it with us. From protecting cherished open spaces to ensuring low-income families can afford vaccines for their pets, every one of these projects makes North Central Massachusetts a better place to live.”

- Stephen J. Adams, President, Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts

2026 Grant Recipients

  • Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust received $20,000 for its Save Camp Selah Partnership, an effort to permanently protect a treasured summer camp operated by the Athol YMCA. The camp provides children with opportunities to build confidence outdoors, form lasting friendships, and engage in structured summer programming in a safe, natural environment.
  • North County Land Trust, Inc. was awarded $10,000 to preserve October Farm, an historic property featuring productive farmland, biodiverse forests and wetlands, and iconic views of Mount Wachusett.
  • Second Chance Animal Services received $14,025 to expand mobile pet vaccine clinics, bringing low-cost and no-cost veterinary services directly to families throughout the region.
  • Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association Charities was awarded $5,000 to provide critical resources for stray and at-risk animals across North Central Massachusetts.
  • Massachusetts Praying Indian Land Trust (MPILT) received $10,000 to establish a cultural and educational site focused on training tribal and community members in stewardship of waterways, woodlands, ecosystems, and sensitive archaeological sites.
  • Bare Hill Pond Watershed Management Committee was awarded $4,490 to develop educational resources that help residents better understand and protect the long-term health of Bare Hill Pond.
  • Athol Animal Control received $7,875 for vital fencing upgrades that improve safety and care conditions for animals housed at the facility.
  • Seeds of Solidarity was awarded $3,000 to support its native plant nursery project, which grows and distributes native plants to restore local ecosystems and build long-term ecological resilience.
  • The Trustees of Reservations received $10,000 for the Rock Parcel Conservation Project, securing permanent protection for a 70-acre parcel in Erving. The parcel will serve as critical access to Farley Ledges, a popular hiking and rock-climbing destination near Northfield Mountain.

Strengthening a Region Through Stewardship

Together, the 2026 EPAW grants reflect a continued investment in conservation, and animal welfare initiatives that directly benefit communities across the region. From expanding public access to protected lands to improving care for vulnerable animals, the funded projects underscore a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and humane treatment.

CFNCM emphasized that these grants are part of its broader mission to strengthen North Central Massachusetts through philanthropy that responds to both immediate needs and long-term regional sustainability.