FMFN Spirit Week Launches Amid Unprecedented Budget Uncertainty

MEDFORD, MA — For 33 consecutive years, the Medford Family Network (MFN) has served as the unconditional “heart of the village” for local families, providing free playgroups, parent education, and vital community resources. Historically supported through a combination of state grants and grassroots fundraising, the beloved organization is now navigating an uncertain financial future.

Following the loss of a significant portion of its income due to a major grant that is no longer available, the MFN has approached the City of Medford to request formal inclusion in the overall city budget for the very first time in its history. Despite the network's deep roots and undeniable community impact, local officials have yet to provide definitive answers on whether the MFN will be granted a place in the city's upcoming funding plans.

In response to this critical transition, the Friends of the MFN (FMFN)—the non-profit, volunteer-run fundraising arm of the network—has been campaigning for local support with a symbolic $33,000 fundraising goal to help protect the organization's future. This community-driven campaign leads directly into a week-long series of celebrations running from May 31st to June 6th. FMFN Spirit Week is designed to bring generations of MFN parents and families together to connect, enjoy community spaces, and celebrate the incredible legacy of retiring Director and founder Marie Cassidy.

In addition to a giant community Teddy Bear Picnic at Victory Park on Friday, June 5th, Cassidy has been formally invited to the Medford School Committee meeting on Monday, June 8th, where city leaders and families will gather to officially honor her 33 years of leadership and service to Medford's youth.

The FMFN Spirit Week Lineup:
Sunday, May 31st (Wellness Day): Features a Community Run Club, pay-what-you-can acupuncture at Waterlily Wellness, beginner and open-play pickleball instruction, a community barre class at The Energy Barre, a heated yoga flow at CorePower Yoga, and a family playground meetup at Carr Park featuring free slush from Jim's Market.

Monday, June 1st: Flower Craft & Storytime with Miss Marie at the Medford Library, followed by an evening Monday Mosaics Workshop with Live In Mosaics.

Tuesday, June 2nd: A Maternal Journal creative workshop, a Music Together pop-up class at Tufts Park, and an evening of Pajamas, Music & Plushies with Lindsay Munroe on the GABH patio.

Wednesday, June 3rd: Moon & Back Storytime with Miss Marie (featuring BOGO ice cream coupons for CB Scoops), followed by a Line Dancing Night at the Great American Beer Hall.
Thursday, June 4th: A special MFN interactive presence and kids' craft table at the Medford Farmers Market Opening Day at Condon Shell Park.

Friday, June 5th: The MFN Teddy Bear Picnic & Marie's Retirement Celebration at Victory Park, featuring a giant bubble show and community tributes.

Saturday, June 6th: The FMFN Porchfest Block Party & Kids' Karaoke hub on Brookings Street.

Monday, June 8th (Special Event): The Medford School Committee meeting to formally honor and celebrate retiring MFN founder Marie Cassidy. Community members and families are strongly encouraged to attend and show their support.

Residents are strongly encouraged to participate in the upcoming festivities and rally behind the #WeHeartMFN campaign during this pivotal week. Joining these daily activities not only strengthens the community fabric but also keeps the collective voice of MFN families highly visible to city leaders as critical budget decisions loom.

The Friends of the MFN will be debuting brand-new campaign gear, giving supporters a chance to show their love for the network with limited-edition hats, bags, and the iconic #WeHeartMFN yard signs.

As the city budget deadline approaches, advocates hope this historic mobilization will demonstrate to municipal leaders exactly how much the network means to the families of Medford.

For full event details, specific locations, workshop registration, or to make a direct contribution toward the $33,000 fundraising goal, visit the official campaign hub at friendsofthemfn.org/spirit-week/.