The Webster Five Foundation, a charitable organization founded by Webster Five Cents Savings Bank, has donated $7,500 to local organizations.
The foundation will give $1,000 to Apple Tree Arts in Grafton to support early childhood music and movement classes and $4,000 to Worcester’s Henry Lee Willis Center to help build a group home for young men. They have also given $2,500 to Rachel’s Table to provide milk to Worcester agencies for children in need through the Children’s Milk Fund.
"We are very appreciative of Webster Five’s donation," said Donna Blanchard, executive director of Apple Tree Arts. "This donation will allow children from all neighborhoods to come to our classes and enjoy music as they learn and grow."
"We are proud to support Apple Tree Arts," said Richard T. Leahy, president and chief executive officer of Webster Five Cents Savings Bank. "It is important that children grow up exposed to music and theater, and we are proud to help make that possible."
The funds at the Henry Lee Willis Center will support the Starting Point Program Facility, a supportive long-term group home for young men ages 11 to 17 who need a safe haven.
The program provides a safe, supportive and home-like atmosphere to 18 young men who have been removed from their homes by the state, due to issues such as physical, sexual, or emotional abuse.
"This donation from Webster Five is greatly appreciated," said Carlton Watson, president of the Willis Center. "It will allow us to purchase new bed frames and mattresses, bureaus, and sofas for the young men’s sleeping and common areas. With these items, they can go to sleep at night with a greater sense of self-esteem-and with pride in themselves and their home."
The Children’s Milk Fund is the sole source of regularly donated milk in the Worcester area, providing 900 gallons of milk every week and helping more than 6,000 children.
"We are very appreciative of Webster Five’s donation," said Carla Szymanski, director of Rachel’s Table. "This donation will help us not only meet the growing needs in the community, but also distribute more milk to local agencies and food pantries."
