WESTFIELD — The Westfield Foundation is proud to announce the distribution of over $100,000 in grants to 13 nonprofit organizations in the second quarter of 2025. As it marks 50 years of service, The Westfield Foundation remains committed to long-term impact, strategic collaboration, and serving as a trusted leader in community philanthropy.
This quarter, 31 percent of grantees are first-time recipients, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to expanding opportunity and increasing equity across the region. During the first half of 2025, grantmaking has supported programs across four strategic focus areas: Health & Social Services (38 percent), Education (23 percent), Arts (20 percent), and Community Development (19 percent).
Q2 Grant Recipients: CASA of Union County (Child Focus) This grant supports the recruitment, training, and supervision of 20 new volunteer advocates for children in foster care. CASA volunteers play a vital role in family court, ensuring that each child’s needs and best interests are clearly represented. With over 14 percent of CASA’s volunteers based in Westfield, the program reflects the community’s strong commitment to standing up for its most vulnerable children.
Children’s Specialized Hospital Funding will support capital improvements to the Long Term Care Unit, enhancing care for children and adolescents with complex medical needs. Following a recent expansion— made possible in part by a major gift from The Westfield Foundation— the hospital has increased capacity and reduced waitlists. This grant will further improve privacy, safety, and efficiency, reinforcing the hospital’s commitment to high-quality, long-term pediatric care.
Elizabeth Coalition to House the Homeless The grant supports the Permanent Housing Initiative (PHI), which acquires and preserves affordable housing for working families, seniors, and children. PHI pairs housing with financial coaching, tenant education, and emergency support to help families achieve long-term stability. Many of the individuals served work in Westfield, making this initiative an important investment in the wider community’s stability and well-being. Girls In Gear Girls In Gear will provide inclusive, empowerment-based cycling programs for approximately 130 girls at two sites in Elizabeth and Plainfield. Funding supports equipment, bilingual materials, and financial aid to ensure access for all participants. The program fosters confidence, connection, and healthy habits through a nontraditional, community-oriented model of sport.
The Madd Ox Foundation (New Grantee) This new grantee supports grieving families following the loss of a child through the distribution of comfort totes filled with personal care items, resources, and support tools. As the organization builds partnerships with hospitals and postpartum services, the grant will help expand its reach and impact. New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra Funding will support three performances by the Outreach Ensemble in Westfield and surrounding communities. These concerts bring music directly to seniors in care and children receiving long-term treatment, offering familiar melodies that spark joy, connection, and memory. New enhancements such as lyric booklets and signage will further engage audiences and encourage participation. Our House Our House will use the grant for urgent renovations at a newly acquired Plainfield group home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Called in by the state to assume responsibility on short notice, the organization is upgrading the home to meet health and safety standards. Improvements will ensure a high-quality, comfortable living environment for the residents.
Plainfield Special Improvement District (New Grantee) The Westfield Foundation is supporting the 2025 Plainfield Free Summer Concert Series, which will host 4–6 outdoor performances downtown. The series aims to strengthen community ties, promote cultural diversity, and support small businesses through increased foot traffic and civic engagement. This accessible programming is designed to bring families together for shared cultural experiences.
Restore Ministries (New Grantee) Funding supports the Arts Community Enrichment (ACE) Summer Day Camp, a free, five-week experience for 75 students from Elizabeth, Union, Linden, and Roselle. The camp combines arts instruction, social justice education, and service projects to empower young people. Participants also receive job readiness training, helping bridge the gap between summer enrichment and future opportunity.
Roots & Wings The grant supports capital expenses for a fully furnished apartment in Westfield that serves aged-out foster youth enrolled in the RISE program. This home provides young adults with a stable environment and essential household items as they transition to independence. Additional support includes safety features and cleaning services to ensure move-in readiness. Scouting America – Patriots’ Path Council Funding will provide STEM and recreational tools for Cub Scout Day Camp in Mountainside, including Dash Robots and basketball hoops. These materials introduce campers to hands-on coding and critical thinking skills, and blend physical activity with innovative learning—supporting well-rounded development.
Wharton Arts (New Grantee) This grant provides scholarships for up to 10 youth musicians from Westfield and nearby areas to participate in Wharton’s top-tier programs, including the New Jersey Youth Chorus, Youth Symphony, and Performing Arts School. The funding removes financial barriers and broadens access to high-quality arts education. Wharton Arts’programs foster confidence, creativity, and community engagement.
YWCA of Union County The Foundation is supporting the YWCA’s Supportive Housing Program, which furnishes temporary housing for survivors of domestic violence and their children. The funding provides beds, kitchen supplies, and other essentials that help families begin the healing process. Wraparound support—including counseling and workforce services—ensures survivors have the tools to rebuild their lives with dignity.
