Grant funds offered for Lower Shore nonprofits and schools -- $180,000+ available

The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore has grant funding available for qualified nonprofits and schools. A total of $180,000 is currently available from various grant programs at the Foundation, with a variety of focus areas including education, COVID-19 impact on nonprofit operations and services, and programs serving women and girls. Education Awards Grant Program: Up to $75,000 has been made available with emphasis on student needs for online, hybrid, and in-person learning impacted by COVID-19. Teachers of Pre-K through 12th grade in Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties at Maryland public schools, or MSDE approved nonpublic schools may apply for up to $1,500 of funding. In an effort to streamline funding for immediate education needs, the Foundation has created a shortened application and expedited review process, with plans to distribute awards by mid-March. Applications are due by February 28, 2021. “The pandemic has created many new challenges for not only students, but teachers and schools alike,” says Erica Joseph, Community Foundation President. “By creating an application process that is more accessible to teachers, we hope to provide critical education funding where our hands-on educators can create the most immediate impact for students.” Women’s Fund Grants: $25,000 is available through the Community Foundation’s Women’s Fund, which focuses its grant making efforts to address the unmet needs of women or girls in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset counties. Each eligible organization may receive up to $5,000. Letter of inquiry submissions are due by February 22, 2021. COVID-19 Emergency Response Grants: Up to $80,000 in grant funding is available for qualifying nonprofits and organizations which have been impacted by or assist those in need due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Eligible nonprofits may a

pply for grants of up to $5,000 and applications are reviewed on a rolling bi-monthly basis. For complete additional information, eligibility details, and application deadlines click here or email hMahler@CFES.org.