In a significant development for community welfare, Maryland’s Democratic Governor Wes Moore announced the second round of funding for the ENOUGH Act program, aimed at addressing the root causes of childhood poverty across the state. The announcement took place inside the gymnasium of the Y in Waverly, which received a grant for the second consecutive year. Governor Moore expressed his personal connection to the facility, remarking, “This is my home Y. I mean, I sweat a lot upstairs.”
The event brought together a diverse audience of elected officials, appointed leaders, and community stakeholders who gathered to celebrate the allocation of $19.5 million in competitive grants. These grants will be distributed to 28 community organizations located in 12 different counties throughout Maryland. Governor Moore emphasized the transformative impact of the ENOUGH Act, stating, “ENOUGH is not just a grant program. It’s transforming communities by letting the communities take the lead. That’s what makes this unique and powerful.”
During the ceremony, the governor recognized the early successes of the program, highlighting that in its inaugural round, over $13.1 million was awarded to 27 organizations from areas such as Park Heights, Hagerstown, and Cherry Hill. He specifically praised initiatives like Cherry Hill Strong, which has successfully enrolled over 150 students in math tutoring programs at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), thereby providing them with enhanced opportunities for a better future.
Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, Governor Moore also delivered a policy address that drew a stark contrast between his administration’s initiatives and those of the previous administration under Donald Trump. “In Maryland, we are doubling down,” he asserted, expressing confidence that the ENOUGH program would establish itself as a national standard. The majority of the organizations that received funding in the previous round have successfully secured grants once again, including the Y in Central Maryland. Notably, around $1.5 million of the funding comes from private philanthropic contributions.
The announcement serves not only as a crucial investment in community resources but also as a commitment to tackling systemic issues surrounding childhood poverty in Maryland’s most marginalized communities. The governor’s administration continues to forge a pathway for collaborative efforts that empower local organizations to address challenges in impactful ways.
