Manchester Proud is excited to announce the launch of Manchester Cares, a new initiative made possible by a generous grant from the Norwin S. and Elizabeth N. Bean Foundation. This pilot project is designed to address the basic needs of students in Manchester public schools, helping to create environments where students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
The Bean Foundation has been a steadfast supporter of Manchester Proud since its founding in 2018, consistently championing efforts to foster excellence, equity, and engagement in Manchester’s public schools. The Foundation’s latest grant will allow Manchester Proud to begin the Fund-A-Need initiative under the Manchester Cares umbrella. This initiative will provide essential funding to address the most pressing needs of students, including clothing, food, and supplies.
“The Bean Foundation has supported Manchester Proud since its founding in 2018. We applaud its work to foster excellence, equity, and engagement in Manchester public schools. Bean trustees became aware recently of efforts to open school-based food pantries. Manchester Proud was the right entity to get this effort up and running, so Bean was pleased to make the seed grant to start the Fund-A-Need initiative,” said Tom Donovan, Senior Trustee of the Bean Foundation.
This week, a diverse group of reviewers from the Manchester School District and local non-profits evaluated applications from schools across the district. Seven projects were selected to receive funding, totaling $6,200.38. The selected schools include:
- Hillside Middle School
- West High School
- Parkside Middle School
- Southside Middle School
- Beech Street Elementary School
- Weston Elementary School
- Central High School
These projects will provide students with critical items to support their well-being and academic success, reinforcing the belief that when students’ basic needs are met, they are better able to engage in learning and thrive in their school communities.
The Manchester Cares initiative is a powerful example of what can be accomplished through collaboration and community investment. Manchester Proud is deeply grateful to the Bean Foundation for their unwavering support and their belief in our mission to build a stronger, more equitable future for all Manchester students.
Together, we are making a difference. ONWARD!
