Democratic Whip Katherine Clark’s Office Grants GMAACC $1M Funding for Asian American Cultural and Community Center

On March 6, 2024, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) announced funding for 13 local community projects, including $1M Funding for Greater Malden Asian American Community Coalition’s (GMAACC) proposed Asian American Cultural and Community Center. GMAACC will use the $1M to acquire and renovate a building, providing Malden with its first permanent Asian American Cultural and Community Center. This center will help not only provide access and increase capacity for GMAACC’s current established programming but to expand to include meaningful and needed community programs for the Asian American community in the North Shore.

“We are immensely grateful for Whip Clark's commitment to increasing the visibility and sense of belonging of Asian Americans in the greater Malden and North Shore area,” said GMAACC Board President Andrea So.

GMAACC and our community partners look forward to kickstarting the capital campaign to raise the additional funds needed to renovate and open the community center.

GMAACC co-founder Mai Du said of the community center plans, "This federal funding is one giant step towards making the vision of a permanent home for Asian Americans of all ages to have a communal space to gather, socialize, learn, volunteer, connect, and thrive as vibrant members of our collective community. In the midst of heightened anti-Asian hate and violence in the last few years and throughout the pandemic, seen locally and nationally, Whip Clark's steadfast support and care in the many years has made us feel truly seen, heard, and respected. Her leadership and actions affirm our human dignity as important members of her district. We cannot thank her enough for her continual commitment to see the project through!" 

GMAACC would also like to express our deepest gratitude to the following community leaders and organizations who have submitted letters of support for our federal appropriation request:

City of Malden, Mayor Gary Christenson and Maria Luise

State Senator Jason Lewis 

State Representative Steven Ultrino

Malden Councillor Stephen Winslow

Malden Councillor Ryan O'Malley

Malden Councillor Amanda Linehan

Malden Councillor Carey McDonald

Asian Community Development Corporation

Chinese American Association of Lexington

Chinese Progressive Association 

The Boston Foundation, Asian Community Fund

Greater Boston Legal Services, Asian Outreach Center