Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/Greater Worcester has received a $100,000 grant aimed at expanding its housing work and helping the organization serve more families across the region.
The nonprofit was named Bank of America’s 2026 Neighborhood Builder for Worcester, an award that provides two years of unrestricted funding along with leadership training for nonprofit executives.
The organization was recognized Sunday at the New England Patriots game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where members of the Habitat team joined Michael Garand, president of Bank of America Worcester, on the field.
Habitat plans to use the investment as it launches a three-year strategic plan focused on expanding its operations and housing pipeline, according to the announcement.
That includes investing in new leadership positions, including a chief operating officer and director of land acquisition, while expanding its director of development role. By the third year of the plan, the organization hopes to improve housing conditions for more than 20 families annually.
The funding will also support Habitat’s home construction and repair programs and efforts to develop additional sources of revenue. The organization plans to expand its ReStore operation, with a goal of generating more than $1 million in annual net revenue by fiscal 2029 to support its housing mission.
“We are incredibly honored to be selected as a Bank of America Neighborhood Builder,” Habitat for Humanity MetroWest/Greater Worcester CEO Debbie Maruca Hoak said in the announcement. “This investment comes at an important moment as we work to expand the number of families we serve across our communities.”
Hoak said the combination of flexible funding and leadership development would help Habitat create more opportunities for families to secure safe, affordable housing.
“We are deeply grateful to Bank of America for investing not only in the homes we build, but in Habitat’s ability to serve more families for years to come,” she said in the announcement.
The Worcester organization was one of three Massachusetts nonprofits selected for the program this year. Boston-based Urban Edge and Camp Harbor View will each receive $200,000 over two years, bringing Bank of America’s total investment in the three organizations to $500,000.
In addition to the grants, the executive director and an emerging leader from each organization will participate in a leadership development program.
Garand said in the announcement that Habitat has demonstrated a commitment to strengthening neighborhoods through its affordable housing work.
“It is a privilege to honor their hard work, and I congratulate the entire team on being recognized into the Neighborhood Builders program,” he said.
Bank of America launched the Neighborhood Builders program in 2004. Since then, 69 Massachusetts nonprofits have participated, receiving more than $10 million in investments, according to the announcement.
