Hubbardston senior center to hold art show; Cultural Council awards $700 grant

The Town of Hubbardston Senior Center reported it received a cultural grant of $700 to support its community art program, less than the $1,300 requested. The board and volunteers are planning an art show, tentatively set for May 10, and discussed combining the art show with a plant sale—hosting plants at the senior center while moving the art display to the library basement to reduce stairs for seniors.

The grant was described as an award to the center; board members said the grant funds will be disbursed after the center completes the event and related reporting requirements. Organizers noted the art teacher typically leads a two‑hour monthly session with five to eight participants; the teacher is expected to run the art show as the session’s culminating event. The center said it may need a small supplemental request from its operating funds or future allotments if the cultural grant payout timing requires it.

Volunteers discussed logistics and content: the plant sale will prioritize houseplants rather than vegetable starts because of timing; some donated plants and crafts are expected. The committee agreed to keep plant sales proceeds with sellers when appropriate and asked volunteers to coordinate with Cindy and Jen (class organizer) on setup and advertising. The group also discussed the potential for a later date if crafters cannot attend May 10 (Mother’s Day weekend) and said they would finalize after one more planning meeting.

Board members emphasized that grant award amounts and payment timing are determined by the grantor and that the center must document the event to receive grant funds.