Mayor Wu Announced BCYF Creates, An Expansion of Free Art Classes in Community Centers for Boston Youth at State of the City Address

Mayor Michelle Wu announced the launch of BCYF Creates during her 2025 State of the City Address, aiming to provide free, high-quality arts programming for Boston youth aged 8-14. This initiative, part of her Connect, Learn, Explore commitment, will more than double the amount of arts instruction available at Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) community centers. Offering classes across 14 centers in 10 neighborhoods, BCYF Creates includes a variety of disciplines, from visual arts to performance arts like spoken word and music. The program is a collaborative effort involving the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture and aims to engage youth who are not currently connected to BCYF. Families can enroll their children through the BCYF registration site, with classes operating during after-school hours and on Saturdays.

Mayor Wu highlighted the transformative power of arts education, encouraging young people to explore their passions. José F. Massó, Chief of Human Services, noted that arts programming can expand children's horizons and provide emotional outlets. The initiative is administered by Elizabeth Santiago, PhD, emphasizing its commitment to nurturing underrepresented voices in the community.