Marlborough Food Access Program Gets Boost In State Budget

MARLBOROUGH, MA — A Marlborough-based worker center could receive $51,500 in state funding to expand food access programs for immigrant families.

The money was included in the Massachusetts Senate’s $63.37 billion fiscal 2027 budget, which passed unanimously on May 21, according to Sen. Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough).

The earmark would go to Metrowest Worker Center, also known as Casa do Trabalhador and Casa Del Trabajador, to support culturally appropriate food distribution for immigrant families facing food insecurity and expand programming in Marlborough.

Sen. Eldridge said he focused on securing funding for programs serving communities in the Middlesex and Worcester District, including education, environmental programs, housing access and local services.

“Despite cuts to important programs, I am proud to have successfully fought for funding that facilitates affordability for all, enhances our education system, supports social justice, and protects our environment,” Eldridge said in a statement.

The Senate budget also includes a $53 million increase in Unrestricted General Government Aid for cities and towns, according to Eldridge’s office. Other local and regional earmarks secured by Eldridge include money for food access, furniture for low-income residents and environmental education programs.

The Senate budget also includes $45,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest facilities, $30,000 for OARS water quality monitoring on the Assabet, Concord and Sudbury rivers and $50,000 for the MetroWest Food Collaborative, according to Eldridge’s office.

A conference committee will be appointed to reconcile differences between the Senate and House budget proposals before a final version is sent to Gov. Maura Healey.

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