The Hunger Relief Grant Program, administered by the Community Foundation for MetroWest (CFMW), provides general operating support to nonprofit organizations addressing food insecurity across the MetroWest region of Massachusetts. Recognizing that food access is a multifaceted regional issue, CFMW prioritizes community-centered and system-wide interventions that improve equitable access to nutritious food for underserved populations.
In 2025, the program offers one-time grants of up to $5,000, with awards capped at 10% of the applicant organization’s annual operating budget. Average awards in the previous cycle were approximately $4,200. The foundation seeks to support organizations focused on models such as mobile food markets, neighborhood-based programs, food delivery services, food recovery initiatives, and local agriculture. Additional priorities include increasing participation in federal and state nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC, and fostering cross-sector collaborations.
Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or have an eligible fiscal sponsor. Applicants must serve one or more of the MetroWest communities listed in the program guidelines, which include cities and towns such as Framingham, Natick, Waltham, and others. Schools, individuals, and municipal agencies are not eligible. Organizations with multiple service locations must submit only one consolidated application.
The application process opened on August 4, 2025, with the deadline for submissions on September 12, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The grant cycle includes optional information sessions and potential follow-up site visits from October to November. Award notifications will be sent in early December.
Applicants must complete an online application through the CFMW grant portal. First-time applicants must create an account, while returning applicants should use their existing login. Additional technical assistance and accommodations are available for applicants with access needs.
Consider how your work aligns with the foundation’s stated priorities and systemic food security goals. Site visits may occur during October or November, but not receiving a visit will not affect funding decisions.
