Emergency Funds Secured for New Bedford’s First Baptist Church

NEW BEDFORD — Representative Antonio F. D. Cabral (D-New Bedford) helped the Waterfront Historic Area LeaguE (WHALE) secure a $75,000 emergency grant from Secretary of State, William Galvin, following unforeseen construction issues involving the First Baptist Church’s steeple restoration project in New Bedford. WHALE cited rotting wooden corner posts, which support the steeple, as the chief safety concern and reason behind the emergency funding request.

“The First Baptist Church embodies New Bedford’s rich history and the steeple restoration project deserves access to the right resources,” said Rep. Cabral. “The urgency of the situation required swift action and I was happy to advocate on behalf of WHALE and the First Baptist Church project with Secretary Galvin’s office. We are all grateful for their receptiveness to our request.”

The steeple will likely be removed by crane next week and stored in the Church’s parking lot while the repairs are made. WHALE successfully raised $100,000 in donations to fund the rest of the project and is currently seeking additional contributions.

- Office of State Rep. Antonio Cabral