Cummings Foundation awards up to $225,000 to Waltham-area nonprofits
By: Allie Ladjeva
Four Waltham organizations received grants from the Cummings Foundation: Community Day Center of Waltham, PFLAG Greater Boston, Waltham Partnership for Youth and WATCH CDC.
The four grants represent continued investment in Waltham organizations that address some of the community’s most pressing needs, from housing to youth opportunities and inclusion.
They were among 150 Northeastern Massachusetts nonprofits sharing in the Cummings Foundation’s 2026 local grant awards, which totaled $35 million.
Founded in 1986, the Cummings Foundation funds 150 Northeastern Massachusetts nonprofit organizations annually, prioritizing causes such as human services, healthcare, fairness, justice, education and environment. Beginning this year, grants serve as general operating support, meaning that nonprofits decide how and where to use them.
Community Day Center for Waltham
Grant term: three years
Total amount: $75,000
The Community Day Center for Waltham provides support, shelter and services to adults experiencing homelessness in MetroWest. Founded in 2003, the organization works to improve the lives of people facing homelessness, including more than 100 individuals in Waltham, according to the organization. The Community Day Center for Waltham offers a variety of programs, including a drop-in center and weekday lunch services for people in need. There are also substance use support services, a shower and laundry program, a seasonal night program and a case management program. The nonprofit has the highest percentage of housing placements among organizations in MetroWest.
Grant term: three years
Total amount: $225,000
PFLAG Greater Boston works to support, educate and advocate for LGBTQ+ people and consists of parents, families, friends and allies of the LGBTQ+ community. Some of the organization’s programs include monthly group support meetings, confidential telephone support, training and workshops on creating more inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. Founded in 1973, PFLAG began as a support group and grew into a national movement. The first support meeting of PFLAG Greater Boston was held in 1978. Since then, the organization has worked hard to improve the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals in Massachusetts and beyond.
Grant term: three years
Total amount: $75,000
Waltham Partnership for Youth (WPY) works with young people, families and partner organizations to address inequalities and foster a sense of community and belonging for Waltham youth. Founded in 1988, WPY served as a city initiative for 10 years before becoming an independent nonprofit. The organization collaborates with more than 800 students per year, providing them with professional and personal development opportunities to succeed, including summer internships and career workshops. WPY also offers bilingual counseling and case management support for immigrant families.
Grant term: three years
Total amount: $150,000
WATCH CDC works to advance justice and equity in Waltham by offering affordable housing, adult education, leadership development and support to underrepresented residents. It works to empower everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status or background, by giving them a voice in the Waltham community. WATCH CDC’s initiatives include a housing clinic, tenant advocacy and adult education to help residents learn English and prepare for the U.S. citizenship test. Volunteers and advocates founded the nonprofit in 1988, aiming to preserve the community’s diversity.
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