This week in Worcester brought funding boosts for local nonprofits, a powerful farewell from a longtime city leader, and momentum on housing and education reforms. From ribbon cuttings and Purple Heart tributes to the city’s young voices and veterans, here’s a snapshot of the news that shaped the city.
Worcester’s “Safe exit” program receives grant support
A city initiative helping women exit the sex trade was named among Jensen grant recipients, receiving critical new funding to expand its work.
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University park spray deck now open
A much-anticipated splash pad officially opened with a ribbon-cutting event, offering families a cool new spot to beat the heat.
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Man charged in Fitchburg homicide
A 24-year-old has been charged in connection with a fatal shooting that left a 27-year-old man dead in Fitchburg.
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WooSox look ahead after quiet trade deadline
With few major moves at the MLB trade deadline, the WooSox are adjusting expectations and player rotation strategies.
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Mitra, Petty lead in at-large fundraising
Mid-year reports show Etel Haxhiaj Mitra and Mayor Joe Petty leading the fundraising pack for citywide council races.
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$400K awarded to Worcester nonprofits
The Berkshire Bank Foundation has awarded nearly half a million dollars to local nonprofits across the city.
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Meet Funbi Fatoke, Worcester Tech valedictorian
This standout grad is charting a bold path forward — and giving back — after topping her class at Worcester Tech.
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From QCC to the world stage
A local student’s journey from Quinsigamond to international opportunity showcases the power of persistence and public education.
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Mayor’s office launches city cleanup blitz
City Manager Eric Batista is calling on residents to pitch in during a new neighborhood cleanup campaign kicking off this month.
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Former Police Chief Gary Gemme passes away at 71
A Navy veteran and longtime city leader, Gemme served Worcester for nearly 33 years and was the longest-serving chief since WWII. He is remembered as “a dedicated public servant” whose leadership modernized the department.
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Worcester celebrates National Night Out
Police, neighbors, and city groups came together across multiple parks this week to celebrate safety and community.
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$1M+ in health foundation grants awarded
Local organizations are receiving early-year funding to continue work in health equity, youth support, and housing security.
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Dr. Matilde Castiel to retire from HHS post
After years leading the city’s Health and Human Services department, Castiel announced her plans to step down.
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Meet the candidate: Moe Bergman
The longtime Councilor At-Large makes his case for another term in our continuing candidate Q&A series.
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Public housing internet gets state boost
The state is investing in internet upgrades for public housing sites in Worcester, helping close the digital divide.
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Purple Heart flag raised to honor vets
Worcester honored wounded veterans this week with a Purple Heart Day ceremony outside City Hall.
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Mastery-based grading moves forward
The city’s schools are one step closer to implementing a new system of evaluating student performance.
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New round of housing funds announced
A new $125M funding round has opened to support affordable housing creation and development across the city.
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