WESTFIELD—Westfield Bank announced that The Future Fund, the Bank’s corporate philanthropy program, has awarded more than $300,000 in grants for 2016, all to local organizations and initiatives that positively impact communities in western Massachusetts and northern Connecticut.
Among this year’s 51 Future Fund grants were funds distributed to support Boys & Girls Clubs, scouting organizations, Make a Wish, and YMCAs across the region; to aid the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield in providing a home away from home for families for critically ill children; and to help the Willie Ross School for the Deaf hire teachers. Local teen centers, senior centers, schools and hospitals all received support from The Future Fund. 
According to Westfield Bank President and CEO James C. Hagan, all of the organizations supported by The Future Fund have one thing in common, “a desire to build a better future for people living in our communities.” Hagan explained, “Whether The Future Fund is making it easier for a school to upgrade classroom technology, a town to buy new radios, or for people to enjoy programs in Stanley Park, it’s all about making life better for those who live and work here.”
In addition to grants from The Future Fund, Westfield Bank typically contributes more than $200,000 in general donations annually, totaling more than half a million dollars in charitable contributions each year.
Westfield Bank established The Future Fund in 2002 in response to pressing community needs and shrinking sources of corporate philanthropy. The Future Fund’s primary, but not exclusive, funding priority is to fund projects that benefit children. The Future Fund accepts written applications from organizations with 501c3 status that serve Westfield Bank’s market area, with grants awarded by determination of the Fund’s directors. More information is available at www.westfieldbank.com/about/the-future-fund/.
