Grateful MAN Inc. accepts $150,000 check from state

Last month, local and state officials gathered at the Methuen Arlington Neighborhood Inc. (MAN Inc.) headquarters to celebrate a significant investment in that community. Sen. Pavel Payano (D-Lawrence), state Reps. Estela Reyes and Ryan Hamilton, and Acting Methuen Mayor DJ Beauregard joined MAN’s staff and community members to present $150,000 in state funding to support the organization’s vital programs that empower residents and foster community growth.

Payano, who played a key role in securing this earmark, underscored the importance of supporting the Arlington neighborhood.

“Supporting MAN Inc., and the work they do is a crucial investment in our community,” said Payano. “This funding represents more than just financial support — it’s about creating opportunities for residents and empowering our youth to achieve their full potential. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in securing these resources for Methuen, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on the Arlington neighborhood.”

MAN Inc., founder Linda Soucy expressed deep gratitude for the funding and its role in sustaining the organization’s mission.

“This funding is vital to our operations,” Soucy explained. “With an annual budget of under $400,000 and minimal administrative costs thanks to our mortgage-free building, these funds are essential to keeping our doors open. We proudly serve over 250 children each year and have been doing so for more than 30 years, with the invaluable support of partners like Senator Payano, State Representative Reyes, and Councilors Hamilton and Moran, and Mayors Perry and Beauregard. Thank you for enabling us to continue our mission of making a lasting impact in the lives of these children that live in Methuen.”

The $150,000 earmark will support MAN Inc.’s wide range of programming, which includes youth education, after-school activities and initiatives to boost local entrepreneurship.