WORCESTER, MA — YWCA Central Massachusetts announces the start of construction on the $24-million, renovation of their downtown, Salem Square location. As a women’s organization in Central Massachusetts, YWCA remains focused on its mission of eliminating racism and empowering women throughout the construction process.

In an unprecedented move, YWCA, in partnership with Consigli Construction, signed the City of Worcester’s first community benefits agreement; in so promising an all-women led construction management team, living wage jobs with benefits and an emphasis on diversity by employing union contractors and local women and people of color.

As a fixture in the Worcester community for 135 years, YWCA provides affordable childcare for working families, transitional housing for unaccompanied women, shelter and support for victims of domestic violence, health and wellness resources, youth activities and more for thousands of women and their families each year.

“The facility plays a crucial role in this area of Massachusetts as it provides the necessary space, programming and resources that women and girls need to thrive,” said YWCA Central Massachusetts Executive Director, Linda Cavaioli. “As with all the work we do, we are proud to embark on this project that is driven by our mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.”

The renovation will focus on updating infrastructure and systems, consolidating and optimizing the current square footage to expand capacity, improve security and advance the ability of YWCA to provide more effective and efficient services.

Additionally, the renovation will provide several enhancements to the Early Education and Care facility including the relocation and reorganization of the current classroom layout, creation of a new classroom and playground, and integrated STEM programming and portable resources.

The yearlong renovation is scheduled to be completed in winter 2020.