Mayor Michelle Wu announced a $1.25 million grant cycle from the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement to support Boston’s immigrants in accessing legal services, community mental health resources, and neighborhood initiatives.
Supporting immigrant residents helps keep Boston a welcoming and connected community. These grants ensure that residents receive tailored help that meets their evolving needs. Mayor Wu thanked city partners for making Boston a home for all.
Immigration Legal Access — $900,000
The $900,000 Immigration Legal Access track expands legal help for immigrants through licensed attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives. Grants support organizations serving diverse communities.
Applicants must be registered nonprofits or have a fiscal sponsor to be eligible for this application. Before submitting, organizations should review the detailed application guidelines available on the City’s call for proposals webpage. All required documents and forms are accessible through this portal.
Community well-being and mental health — $200,000
$200,000 will fund non-clinical mental health support for immigrants, reducing stigma and promoting culturally responsive activities.
Applications are encouraged from organizations that already incorporate such activities into their programming and/or that bridge needs through advocacy within their communities.
Strengthening Boston’s Diverse Neighborhoods — $150,000
The Strengthening Boston’s Diverse Neighborhoods track funds solidarity initiatives for immigrants facing crises. Awards from $10,000 to $30,000 support grassroots groups and coalitions.
A “by and for” community strategy
The FY26 cycle prioritizes needs identified by immigrants. Directing grants to grassroots groups uplifts their leadership and ensures equity and belonging, said Mariangely Solis Cervera, Chief of Equity and Inclusion.
MOIA Executive Director Monique Tú Nguyen emphasized the larger goal: “Celebrating all people is integral to Boston’s heart. Through partnerships with nonprofits and a grant investment of over $1.25 million, we’re building a ‘City of Belonging’ where every resident feels connected to Boston and to one another. Together, we create spaces where immigrants from all backgrounds can thrive, contribute, and feel truly at home.”
Boston’s $1.25 million in FY26 addresses legal, prevention, and well-being needs while boosting neighborhood cohesion. Grants support local groups with a broad reach.
Applications due by October 8, 2025
Expected beneficiaries: neighborhood groups, immigration nonprofits, non-clinical mental health, and coalitions.
Requirements: legal compliance, cultural relevance, spending traceability, and measurable impact.
What does it mean for recipients?
Expanded legal assistance means shorter wait times and more secure case outcomes for immigrants.
Trusted groups will deliver well-being support to reduce isolation and stigma and strengthen ties.
Micro-grants enable small groups to act quickly; coalitions can pool resources for a greater impact.
The FY26 budget focuses on three key areas: legal services, mental health, and neighborhood cohesion, with an emphasis on local leadership and standards.
“These grant funds will ensure residents are connected to City support at all times, providing a wide range of resources that meet the changing needs of our immigrant communities,” Michelle Wu reiterated.
