Eviction Sealing Grant Program

The Office of Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has announced the launch of the Eviction Sealing Grant Program, a targeted funding initiative intended to support nonprofit legal service organizations. This program is a critical component of the implementation of Massachusetts' new eviction sealing legislation, which became law as part of the Affordable Homes Act signed by Governor Maura Healey. Effective as of May 5, 2025, this law allows tenants to petition courts to seal certain eviction records, addressing the long-term harm and housing instability caused by such records. The program aims to support organizations helping affected residents understand and exercise their new legal rights under this statute. The program invites proposals from nonprofit legal service providers for activities including creating educational materials, conducting community outreach, hosting legal clinics, and providing individualized support to those navigating the eviction sealing process. These efforts are intended to improve housing access and economic mobility, particularly among historically marginalized communities who are disproportionately affected by eviction filings. The grant will contribute to addressing the systemic discrimination that eviction records can perpetuate, especially against low-income Black women and families with children. Awards of up to $75,000 will be distributed to eligible organizations, with a cap on indirect administrative costs set at 15%. While funding levels may vary and not all applicants will receive the full amount requested, the program emphasizes the importance of expanding access to legal support services. Funding decisions rest solely with the AGO and are contingent upon the availability of funds. Grant disbursements will be made via Electronic Funds Transfer within 45 days of contract execution, contingent upon timely submission of required documentation. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit organizations providing direct legal services. Public charities must be registered with the AGO’s Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division and meet all IRS and state filing obligations. Applications must be submitted electronically through the AGO’s Grant Applications Portal by 5:00 PM on December 5, 2025. No late or alternative format submissions will be accepted. New applicants must create an account on the portal, while returning applicants should verify existing profile details before submission. Proposals will be evaluated based on several factors, including prior experience with eviction sealing, scope and demographic impact of services, cultural competence, outcome measurement, and operational capacity. Priority may be given to organizations serving large regions. The anticipated project start date is February 1, 2026, with a project period of 12 months. The AGO reserves the right to reject extension requests unless good cause is demonstrated and may require repayment of ineligible expenses. Questions may be submitted to [email protected] until November 21, 2025. Selected grantees must complete semi-annual and final reports, attend at least one AGO-hosted meeting, and may be asked to provide further documentation or financial records. All necessary contractual documents must be submitted before any grant disbursement. The AGO emphasizes a transparent, equitable process and encourages participation from diverse organizations committed to housing justice.

Submit early to avoid technical issues; address culturally competent legal service capacity and outcome tracking.