The Greater Lawrence Summer Fund (GLSF), managed by the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF), supports high-quality summer programs aimed at closing opportunity and achievement gaps for youth in the Greater Lawrence area. By providing grants, GLSF enhances access to enrichment and academic opportunities that promote social, emotional, and academic growth, while ensuring youth remain physically and mentally healthy and engaged during the summer months.

Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving residents of Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, and North Andover. Organizations located outside of these communities may apply but must demonstrate how youth from Greater Lawrence will participate in their programs, including addressing transportation needs. Programs supported by religious organizations are eligible if they are non-sectarian and open to youth of all backgrounds, free of mandatory religious instruction or worship. Stand-alone programs within umbrella organizations are also eligible if they meet criteria such as maintaining separate budgets and raising independent funds.

GLSF grants are intended to support summer day or residential programs that meet licensing guidelines. Residential camps must adhere to American Camping Association (ACA) standards, while day programs should comply with Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) licensing requirements. Grants are not awarded to individuals, for political or religious purposes, deficit reduction, capital campaigns, or academic research.

Grants range up to $15,000, with an average award of $6,000. Funding is restricted to programs serving youth in the designated communities. Applications must be submitted through the Application Portal by the deadline of March 15, 2025. Final reports on program outcomes and fund usage must be submitted through the portal.

GLSF evaluates applications based on their ability to meet funding priorities, which include supporting programs that foster youth development, enhance skills, and address summer learning loss. For more information, applicants can contact Hehershe Busuego, Director of Programs & Racial Equity, at (978) 777-8876 x128 or via email at h.busuego@eccf.org.

This long-standing initiative reflects ECCF’s commitment to equitable opportunities for Greater Lawrence youth, ensuring access to enriching summer programs that build critical skills and reduce achievement gaps.