The Loft

T.R.U.E. Collective (from T.R.U.E. Diversity) & The Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) for the Whittenton District have come together to further the revitalization of Taunton’s Whittenton neighborhood by advancing the establishment of a Community Resilience Hub. This initiative will repurpose the long-vacant 6,000 square-footbuilding at 325 Bay Street Taunton – of which T.R.U.E. has now secured site control – into a vibrant community space named "The Loft: Launchpad for Opportunity, Friendship, Teaching."

Once complete, The Loft will serve as a cornerstone for the region as a Community Resilience Hub. Not only designed to help the district for emergency preparedness, The Loft will provide steady-state community engagement, education, and empowerment, offering a variety of programs and resources aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents of Whittenton and beyond. The Loft will feature an Urban Room community and event space, afterschool programming, and a flagship Green Energy Training Center. It will serve as a hub for community gatherings, small business support, and workforce development initiatives, with a specific focus on training underserved youth and young adults in the clean energy sector.

The LOFT Resilience Center
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

​1. What is The LOFT Resilience Center?

​The LOFT Resilience Center is a Community Resilience Hub developed by T.R.U.E. Diversity in partnership with MassDevelopment’s TDI and local partners. It is located in Taunton’s Whittenton neighborhood and will include a community and event space, afterschool programming, mental health support, and a flagship Clean Energy Workforce Training Center.

​2. What programs and services will The LOFT offer?

​The LOFT will offer a variety of programs and services, including:

• Afterschool programming
• Mental health support
• Educational and training programs
• Cultural, educational, and arts events
• Collaborative exhibitions

3. Who is funding The LOFT Resilience Center?

​The center is funded through a combination of grants, donations, and community fundraising efforts. We are grateful for the support of MassDevelopment’s TDI, local partners, and individual contributions. Transparency in funding and resource allocation is a priority for us.

4. How will The LOFT benefit the community?

The LOFT will serve as an anchor space and dynamic regional destination, offering essential support and empowerment to the community. The Clean Energy Workforce Training Center will create employment opportunities for underserved community members, building a strong local economy and growing generational wealth.

5. What security measures will be in place at The LOFT?

We are implementing strict security measures and working closely with local law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of the center and its surroundings. The center will provide a safe, structured environment for all community members.

6. Will The LOFT become a charter school in the future?

Absolutely not. There are no plans now, or in the future, to turn The LOFT Resilience Center into a charter school.

7. How can I support The LOFT?

You can support The LOFT by becoming a Founding Funder. Your contribution will help establish a hub for education, support, and empowerment in underserved areas. For more information on how to donate, please visit our website or contact us directly.

8. Why was the location at the corner of Bay St and W Brittania chosen?

The LOFT is redeveloping a formerly vacant, highly visible 6,000 sq ft building at this location (formerly “Steve’s Appliances”). This site was chosen for its central location in the Whittenton neighborhood, making it accessible to many residents and contributing to the revitalization of the area.

9. What kind of events will be hosted at The LOFT?

The community space will host a wide range of cultural, educational, and arts events, as well as collaborative exhibitions. These events aim to foster community engagement and provide valuable experiences for all attendees.

10. How will The LOFT ensure its programs are effective?

The LOFT has a clear plan supported by T.R.U.E. Diversity and MassDevelopment’s TDI. We will regularly evaluate our programs and seek community feedback to ensure they meet the needs of the residents effectively. Success stories and testimonials will also be shared to highlight the impact of our efforts.

11. How will The LOFT address concerns about potential misuse or crime?

We are dedicated to maintaining a safe, drug-free environment at The LOFT. Our programs include mental health support and resources for individuals, and we have security measures in place to prevent illicit activities. Collaboration with local law enforcement will further ensure a secure environment.

12. What is the Clean Energy Workforce Training Center?

The Clean Energy Workforce Training Center is a key component of The LOFT, aimed at creating employment opportunities for underserved community members. This center will help build a strong local economy and grow generational wealth in the neighborhood and beyond.

13. How will The LOFT contribute to the local economy?

Through the Clean Energy Workforce Training Center and other educational programs, The LOFT will create employment opportunities and support local businesses. This will contribute to a stronger local economy and help build generational wealth within the community.

14. What are the long-term goals of The LOFT?

​The LOFT aims to be a lasting resource for the community, providing ongoing support, education, and opportunities for growth. By fostering resilience and empowerment, we hope to make a profound, positive impact on the Whittenton neighborhood and the greater Taunton area.