New Balance pledges $5m for FieldHouse

The New Balance Foundation last week committed $5 million to support the construction of The FieldHouse, the $70-million facility that is scheduled to be built starting next year on Mount Vernon Street in Dorchester. The 75,000 square-foot indoor recreational facility— a partnership between the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester and the Martin Richard Foundation— is expected to open in 2026.

The New Balance contribution will be focused on “construction of an indoor running and walking track and multi-sport court and gymnasium,” according to a joint statement sent to The Reporter last week.

“We are honored to join the growing group of supporters of The FieldHouse as part of our 15-year relationship with Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester. By funding projects such as this, donors will significantly impact the future health and well-being of Boston’s young people,” said Megan Bloch, director of the New Balance Foundation.

Bob Scannell, president & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester, said the gift from New Balance “will have a transformative impact on the way we are able to support young people and their families well into the future.”

“The FieldHouse will have a transformative impact on thousands of youth and families throughout Dorchester and beyond,” said Scannell. “At Boys & Girls Clubs of Dorchester, we serve over 4,000 kids each year through more than 200 inclusive programs that meet kids where they are developmentally.

To date, The FieldHouse capital campaign has received hundreds of contributions from individuals, community leaders, and private foundations. Donations range from $10 to $10 million, along with city, state, and federal funding secured for the project as the effort marches toward its $70 million goal.

“We’re grateful to also have shared an amazing partnership with New Balance Athletics for over a decade,” said Bill Richard, co-founder of the Martin Richard Foundation. “This is an organization committed to giving back to the communities it calls home and having a positive impact in young people’s lives. With the charitable foundation’s incredible gift of $5 million, we are another step closer to starting construction and opening our doors to the community. I can’t wait to take that first lap around the indoor track with kids from across our city.” 


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