The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) announced that it distributed $18 million in grants from the Community Mitigation Fund (CMF) to several municipalities and eligible entities across the state this year.
This came after a series of public meetings in the spring of 2024, during which the CMF review team evaluated all applications to ensure compliance with FY 2025 guidelines.
“The Community Mitigation Fund is an important and impactful program aimed at maximizing the benefits of legalized gambling while mitigating any unintended impacts associated with the operation of the Commonwealth’s casinos,” said MGC interim chair Jordan Maynard.
“This program is a direct investment in our communities, prioritizing projects that enhance local infrastructure, public safety, and harm reduction. The 2024 grant recipients represent innovative and tangible initiatives, which upon implementation will have a positive impact on communities and residents across the state."
The press release outlines the grants awarded across Massachusetts sports betting communities, including in Everett, Boston, Chelsea, Lynn, and other municipalities. In Fall 2023, the MGC changed the CMF to a municipal block grant structure, distributed through a regional application process.
Earlier this year, the MGC awarded $1.5 million in Workforce Development Grants, supporting both the MassHire Metro North Workforce Board and Holyoke Community College’s Adult Education and Workforce Development Program.
“The support of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, through the Community Mitigation Fund, has enabled Holyoke Community College to provide training for critical Line Cook positions at MGM Resorts Springfield and other regional employers,” said Holyoke Community College's Kermit Dunkelberg in April.
Since the Expanded Gaming Act established the CMF in 2015, the MGC has awarded around $56.7 million in grants. This fund aims to help hosts, surrounding communities, and other eligible applicants to cover expenses associated with casino construction and operation.
The grants also benefit a range of community initiatives, such as the environment, education, transportation, housing, infrastructure, emergency services, and public safety.
